Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dinah Myers Schroeder. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Dinah 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?
My work ethic was instilled by my parents. My mom and dad had 14 kids. Between being in the navy, ties with the church, and raising 9 girls and 5 boys they ran a tight ship. We learned to work harder than the next and we learned to do it together. They taught us to give one hundred percent and to leave any given place/situation better than we found it. I developed the belief that I, like my dad, could do anything or at least figure out how to complete the task. I fostered these qualities and belief in my own children and use it in my life daily.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a Black female visual artist. I enjoy creating artwork that represents who I am. My projects are uplifting for underrepresented people and my community. What I love most about being an artist is being creative every day. Recently, I finished a public art project with the Department of Health and Human Services staff and community in Rockville, Maryland. This project resonates with my need to change how we see individuals needing support and normalizing asking for help. I held workshops where the community came in and talked about resilience while working on elements for the final pieces.
Another recent public art project I am incredibly excited about is Soulful Panes, located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Wheaton, Maryland. I curated this project and worked on it from the ground up to bring it to fruition. I sat down with the Regional County Service director and other community members. I presented ideas to bring artwork to Wheaton’s Art and Entertainment District, Soulful Panes derived from this meeting. I wanted to uplift Black women in a positive light. Soulful Panes is 64 windows of art on the Parks and Planning building in downtown Wheaton. I am one of the five female artists with art that shows communities the importance of showcasing their diversity and beauty.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities that have had the most significant impact on my journey have been my work ethic, ability to visualize, and the ability to make genuine connections. I would advise others to work hard, make connections, and visualize their goals. Never underestimate the person in your presence. Visualize and write down your thoughts and goals, then take decisive action to bring your dreams to fruition.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I always seek collaboration opportunities with other artists, especially the BIPOC communities. I have created a network of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) on Instagram to communicate, share information, and collaborate with others. I aim to connect with individuals and community leaders to find opportunities to showcase artwork that represents who I am in mainstream venues. Soulful Panes is one example of how I have brought my collaboration ideas together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Anotherdinahmytecreation.com
- Instagram: @Anotherdinahmytecreation
- Facebook: Anotherdinahmytecreation
Image Credits
Jennifer Schroeder
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