Danielle Noel is a contemporary surrealist figurative artist who began her journey as an illustrator and painter at a very young age. She graduated from the University of Victoria and is now working as a freelance designer and illustrator in Tofino, BC.
Born and raised in Victoria, BC, she is continuously inspired by the beauty and visceral magic of Vancouver Island. Danielle’s attraction to the esoteric and magical qualities found in nature is translated into her art, making her pieces represent a bridge between reality and imagination.
Danielle’s work has been exhibited throughout Greater Victoria since 2005 at spots like the 50/50 Arts Collective, The Artist X-Change Gallery, Curious Comics, Kiss & Tell, and Amelia Lee Boutique.
Apart from art and graphic design, she also designs jewellery! Danielle and her friend have their own jewellery brand, Zaleska.
I love being outdoors and so most of my artwork is inspired by my natural surroundings. I feel very lucky to live near the ocean in Tofino and I try to make a trip to the beach every day for a stroll. I am also really inspired by outer space, Carl Sagan, the cosmos, and more! I’m a Sci-Fi geek!
About Danielle’s first Fluevog encounter::
I have been Fluevogin’ since I was a teenager, which was about 15 years ago! Sadly, my dog chewed up my first pair but I was determined to buy another pair of gems after the incident. I later purchased a pair of black, knee-high Melanie boots and love them dearly. They are also very unique in their design and fun to wear.
On her inspiration behind the winning ad, ‘How to Walk with Purpose and Determination‘:
One morning, I dreamt that I was searching for something on the Fluevog site. I knew there was something important to be found, et voila! After I checked out the website, I found the posting for the FluevogCreative later that day (I know that sounds strange, but it’s the truth). I felt compelled to submit something. I love Fluevogs and thought it would be fun to give it a try.
My inspiration for the artwork came from my nostalgic love of the 1960s. I knew I wanted the artwork to feel organic and reminiscent of particular visuals that came to my mind. The yellow Determination boots immediately reminded me of the Mod era – when bright, vibrant colours and wild, texturized fabrics replaced the more conservative shades of the 1950s. I am so attracted to the extreme, intentional contrast and bright colour palettes that are so characteristic of the art and style of the era. The Determination boot’s unique pattern also really spoke to me. I love layers of textures, and often find myself using them in my artwork.
On the entering the FluevogCreative contest and the ad, ‘How to Walk with Purpose and Determination‘:
The winning creative was the final of three other submissions because I so inspired by all the previous FluevogCreative briefs that I kept coming up with new ideas! Once I get into the groove of creating something, I lose all sight of my surroundings and work through the process until I am satisfied with the final results. Each of the submissions took me a number of hours to complete.
On dreams and what the future holds for Danielle:
Apart from spending my time creating art (graphic design and illustration), I make jewellery with my best friend and business partner, Sylvia Tennant. We have a company called,Zaleska, which has been an amazing journey and success for both of us.
Keep an eye out in Vice, Applied Arts, and Bust magazines for Danielle’s winning design in print.
