We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Daren Hill. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Daren below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Daren with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I have always admired my father’s hard work and resilience since childhood. He instilled in me the value of working hard now to enjoy later. I try to put 110% effort into everything I do, as I believe it creates a snowball effect that leads to more opportunities and personal growth.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a visual artist from South Minneapolis, and art has been my lifelong passion. My earliest memories involve exploring my grandfather’s dark room in the basement, and it was there that I discovered my love for art.
My work is centered around the exploration of identity and the commodification of culture. Being bi-racial, I have always felt a sense of duality in my life that is reflected in my art. My art is a way for me to process and capture these feelings, and I strive to honor the vision of the art in everything I create.
I am fascinated by the small details that shape our reality and influence who we are. The past, present, and future are a series of small things that shape our reality, and we are constantly evolving. Through my art, I try to capture these subtle details and convey them to the viewer.
My work is full of small details and symbols that convey a larger message. As you move around the canvas or mural, you will discover patterns and messages that are a commonality in all my work. My art is not just a visual experience; it is an emotional and intellectual experience that encourages the viewer to question and explore their own identity.
I am currently displaying my show ‘The Bond Between Us’ at the Hennepin History Museum. This exhibit is a reflection of the past and explores three generations of photographers. The collection features a large number of images showcasing Minnesota’s Black community, as well as new original digital artwork created for the museum’s permanent collection. This show is a tribute to my family and celebrates their bond.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I try to live by certain qualities such as finding my authentic voice, being punctual, and always trying to grow or improve my skills. Finding your voice can be challenging at first, but it’s important to make your work stand out and have its own identity. You should build on your influences instead of trying to copy them and use that inspiration to create something unique. Punctuality is crucial, especially when working with clients, as it shows that you value and respect their time. Lastly, it’s important to always be willing to learn and grow. Surround yourself with like-minded people and study their approach to art-making to apply it to your work.
My advice to those who are just starting is to keep going and be willing to learn. Remember that it’s a marathon, not a race, and if your intentions are pure, the universe will recognize that and reward you.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents have played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. One of the most significant things that set me on my journey was when my father took me to my first art museum. He bought me an Escher print, and I distinctly remember a light going off in my head. I realized that being creative was what I was meant to do. My parents have always supported me on my journey and allowed me to grow at my own pace. Without them, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.darenscotthill.com
- Instagram: @probablypicasso
Image Credits
Daren Scott Hill Alyssa Thiede
