Meet Diana Flynn | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Diana Flynn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Diana, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
I have two teenage boys and feel it’s crucial to talk to them about the importance of gender equality. Growing up I thought that closing the gender gap was not only possible but that it was just around the corner. Unfortunately, while we have continued to see change and progression, we are not yet where we should be.

I try to have an awareness of how I conduct myself out in the world and how my behavior can impact the attitudes of my kids. I also try to have intentional conversations with them about issues women face and how they can make choices in their lives to help elevate these disparities and why those changes are important for a stronger society overall.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work has evolved in recent years but at its core, it is about creating dimensional surfaces. The idea of “building” something has always been super interesting to me so creating art that is multilayered and textural has been very satisfying.

My most recent collection explores the duality of surfaces by using fabric, applied in linear horizontal or vertical strips, juxtaposed with a rough and irregular surface, using acrylic mixed mediums. The pursuit of balance in this work, is almost certainly a reflection of my attempt to pursue a sense of order in my own life and I’m enjoying feeling connected to my work in this way.

But I’m not gonna lie, having a creative business can be challenging. Everything takes longer than I think it will so I always feel behind; taking care of the administrative tasks and social media planning and posting can seem endless; and creating work and sharing it with the world can be scary and intimidating but I love being in the studio making art so I just keep trying to work hard and stay focused.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hammer Museum
This is my favorite museum in Los Angeles. It is small but mighty with experimental exhibits, films and workshops. The interior open space is truly a little slice of heaven and restaurant Lulu and the gift shop round out the whole wonderful experience.

Shops at Sportsmans Lodge
The shops here are super solid and include Fred Segal, The Great and Reformation and of course Erewhon but my favorite place is Rolling Greens. Not only do they do an amazing job at displaying their beautiful plants and pottery but they also have amazing vessels, glassware, table settings and home decor. If that isn’t enough, they also have a lovely rooftop wine bar (Cosette) and garden with a plant/flower arrangement bar. You could spend a whole afternoon/evening there (and maybe you should).

Manhattan Beach
I may be partial (since I live there) but my favorite beach day is spent in Manhattan Beach. First of all, the downtown shopping, restaurants and beach are all walkable so you can park your car once and be done for the day. My first stop would be Paradise Bowls for an Acai bowl (my favorite is Peach Bum). Then I like to head to 8th Street (because it’s near the bathrooms) and put my chair and umbrella down by the water and spend some time listening to the waves. For lunch, I might head to Tacolicious for their mushroom tacos on the garden patio, followed by a bit of shopping. If you’re looking for a unique gift or fun vintage find, head to Right Tribe or check out Wrights for a special occasion piece (mens has a separate store) or some designer basics. If you’re feeling curious, be sure to visit the 2nd floor of the MB Library. There you can grab a book and a seat and enjoy one of the best ocean views in town. Before dinner, grab a drink at the newly renovated Brewco Social before heading to dinner at Fishing with Dynamite or Manhattan Beach Post (reservations required for both). Lastly, end the day taking a stroll on the MB Pier or nearby Strand trail.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
While thinking about this question, I came to realize that “other women” are too thank for giving me the courage to define and pursue my career as an artist.

I don’t know most of these women personally but I follow them on Instagram. Some of them are artists while others are writers, activists, business owners, political leaders, and designers. I read their books and follow their accomplishments. I learn about their struggles and triumphs and I am energized by their words of wisdom, encouragement and general “let’s kick some ass” attitude.

Website: https://www.dianaflynndesigns.com

Instagram: dianaflynndesigns

Image Credits
All images belong to Diana Flynn Designs.