Much of my mural art reflects an ongoing interest in the natural world.  For example: the series of paintings and murals done in the 1990’s that focus on endangered species.  At the same time, my work is geared towards a certain timeless quality in the image choices.  In both my murals and studio works you will find a sense of “place” as my focus and I consider my work to contain a sensitivity to being “site specific”.  Some of my works will try to evoke a sense of surprise or whimsy from the viewer while at other times I might choose a serene landscape.  I prefer local and personal subjects over trendy/fashionable art.

In creating public art I put my attention on redirecting the energy of the place and forming a new environment.  These newly created places can serve as landmarks, entranceways and act as boundary designation not just decorative site enhancement.   When all the elements have been considered these murals have taken the surrounding environment (its character, architecture, nature and residents) into account and allow a new identity to be realized.

In addition to my murals I have worked with thousands of children in many schools and taught dozens of workshops throughout Northern California as well as in two of Oakland’s sister cities in China and Japan.  Through working with my students I have developed a level of playfulness towards what public art can accomplish.  I also feel it is important to introduce young people to professional quality art materials and techniques as early as possible to demystify art and celebrate art’s life enhancing possibilities.  I view painting and murals as a problem solving vehicle and a great humanizing force.

More photos of my work with more of an expanded narrative can be seen at www.danfontes.com