Occupation: Artist and Photographer
Instagram: @danyellah_photography
Where were you born?
Born in Ivory Coast, west Africa to a black mother and a white (French) father. I moved to Paris at 4 years old and attended the best schools in Paris. I was raised with both cultures, I speak my mom’s dialect but have a very French education.
In one sentence what is unique about your work?
I am obsessed with Plastic Art and can’t stop using my creativity and imagination. I have a vital need to create.
Where do you live now?
I live in Palm Springs, CA. To me, Palm Springs is a vortex of health and wellbeing where artists can freely express themselves. I could not have chosen a better place, this element is my second skin… even with 120F in the summer!
In one sentence what is unique about your work?
I intend to shape your vision no matter where you come from in life.
Why do you do what you do?
Feelings! I need to put my art into form to translate my vision. My work is my way of transcending to another level of communication. If I can create an emotion in the person who looks at my art, I feel content; I had achieved my goal. It’s is almost like a therapy for the both of us, a deep connection is born.
What inspires you?
When I was younger I was obsessed with the French Impressionism movement. I was astonished by the use of the light and the shadow. The structure of the composition, how the artist could lead your eye to the light, or one particular side of the painting. I kept asking myself how could a human eye be able to analyze this duality and make it alive on a canvas. In a way photography is about the balance between the power of the light and depth of the shadow. When I discovered I had a talent for photography I realized I was simply expressing my inner self. My duality, my mixed ethnicity is what defines me. Today my photography is my identity.
Describe your personal style
I am a “clastidy” girl. Yes, I made it up? Lol… Well I am classy and trendy at the same time. Femininity is my way to go! No matter what day of the week. Call me crazy but I still wear high heels to go to the cleaner like a real Parisian.
Your ultimate must-have
A men’s white shirt, oversized please, Aubade lingerie paired with leather pumps.
What superpower would you have and why?
Heal people’s soul with Love. Because once you reach the energy of Love you reach the ultimate level of abundance.
What is next for you?
“My mama always said, ‘Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.'”-Forrest
