loren dann

curriculum vitae

loren dann

biography

Mixed media artist Loren Dann’s work explores intersectionality by exposing the difficult questions and unraveling the tangle of answers surrounding this multi-dimensional topic. Loren’s multi-disciplinary approach gives a voice to those who feel distorted and encourages viewers to identify their roles in forming society’s aesthetic expectations. Her work has been exhibited internationally and extensively in New York, Philadelphia, and New Jersey. Her freelance work appears on material cultural items from album covers to upholstery to handbags creating a strong and recognizable presence. Loren’s skill as an art educator has allowed her to work with all ages, genders, and races to explore art as a creative and therapeutic outlet for emotional and physical well-being. Loren also uses her art to encourage diverse communities where all forms of art and expression are encouraged and valued.

artist Statement

I paint to release the damage in my head. To tell stories that sit rent-free in my conscience. Often these concepts stem from my journey through trauma and the desire to distort our definitions of art. I also attempt to tell the stories of others I extensively research through an ongoing immersion into their lives.

education

  • 2024 Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore, MD, MPS
  • 2000 Moore College of Art and Design, Philadelphia, PA
  • 1999 Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, Philadelphia, PA

Professional

  • 2020-Present: Founder Director of South Jersey Artist Collective a 501c3
  • 2014-Present: Freelance Art and Independent Art Education,
  • 2014-2018: Working with Gilbert and Leona,  http://www.gilbertandleona.com
    • Creating paintings on the fabric as unique and random as the bags themselves.
  • 2008-Present: Private art instructor.
    • Offering lessons in painting, drawing, portfolio presentation, as well as offering therapy for children with disabilities, and the elderly.

Exhibitions

awards

  • April 2024 Grant from GCCHC for Woodbury Public Library, “A Pop of Art” a program to encourage adults in underserved communities to pursue and engage in the arts at Woodbury Library
  • April 2024 Grant from GCCHC for Logan Library, “A Pop of Art” a program to encourage adults in underserved communities to pursue and engage in the arts.
  • March 2024 Grant from GCCHC for South Jersey Artist Collective, “Art for Everyone” a program to encourage adults in underserved communities to pursue and engage in the arts.
  • January 2024 Grant from GCCHC for Woodbury Public Library, “A Pop of Art” a program to encourage adults in underserved communities to pursue and engage in the arts at Woodbury Library
  • June 2023 Grant from the City of Woodbury for a mural at Wing Dickerson Park “When you believe in yourself and believe in your community, nothing can stop you from creating change”
  • June 2023 Grant from the Gloucester County Cultural and Heritage Commission for the Gloucester County Animal Shelter
  • April 2023 Grant from Glassboro Historical Society for the Glassboro train station.
  • March 2023 Grant from GCCHC for South Jersey Artist Collective, “Art for Everyone” a program to encourage adults in underserved communities to pursue and engage in the arts.
  • September 2022 Grant from the Faf Coalition to create a mural at the Woodbury High School
  • March 2022 Grant from GCCHC for South Jersey Artist Collective, “Art for Everyone” a program to encourage adults in underserved communities to pursue and engage in the arts.
  • September 2020 Grant from the GCCHC to teach classes at the Woodbury Public Library, while helping to fund supplies and books about art and artist. With a focus on females, LGBTQ, and people of color.
  • February 2020 Second place in Brave 100: Art by American Women Visionaries
    This show featured over 50 artists and celebrates women who have inspired us as artists.
  • December 2019 with WORC (Woodbury Old Restoration Committee)
    • Grant from Gloucester County Cultural & Heritage Commission ($4750)
      “Eliza B Duffy: Woodbury’s First Femme” This is a research and art project exploring the local historical figure Mrs. Duffy, who was an artist, feminist, author, and librarian. Book is published and has started touring local school and libraries.
  • December 2019 with Woodbury Public Library Grant from Gloucester County Cultural & Heritage Commission ($4500)
    • “Say Nice Things About Woodbury”
      This is a community art project in which residents will paint a large mural on the side of a local building which borders Woodbury’s Lot 323, which is used by Woodbury’s FAF (Fall Arts Fest) for pop-up block parties throughout the summer.  This project will involve local students from Woodbury and from Mural Arts Philadelphia. The students and I completed the mural on June 20, 2019.
  • November 2018 Grant from Gloucester County Cultural & Heritage Commission ($900)
    • “Starry Night Over Woodbury”
      At Woodbury’s Family Court, in the supervised play area, a large white board will be installed for children and parents to color, encouraging co-playing, creativity, and positive family experiences.
  • September 2018  Finalist for Barbara Deming Memorial Fund
  • October 2017 Grant from Women’s Convention ($1250 and attendance at 3-day convention)