Color, Chaos and Healing: My Story as an Artist

Hi! I have a lot of new followers and I wanted to introduce (or reintroduce!) myself! I’m Danielle, the visual artist behind ACDCart. By day, I work as an Organizational and Strategic Leadership Consultant, and by night (and weekends!), I transform blank canvases into bold, expressive pieces of art. My work is a reflection of everything I love—color, movement, emotion—and is heavily influenced by my lifelong connection to the performing arts, especially music, dance, and theatre.

How It All Started

I was unexpectedly laid off in 2024 from a company I had dedicated 12 years of my life. I honestly thought I’d retire there. It was a huge emotional blow – I was scared, grieving and completely thrown off. When I started contracting from home with another position I found I had the time and emotional space to take up painting. I leaned into it. It became not only a creative outlet but a way to process everything I was feeling. That’s where ACDCart started—from the wreckage of one life, I started building another.

Art has always been my creative outlet, but I didn’t fully step into the role of “artist” until I realized how much joy and connection my work could bring others. Over the years, I’ve lived and traveled across the country, and those experiences show up in my work through bold color palettes, layered textures, and a touch of whimsy. Each piece I create is a snapshot of a moment, a mood, or a memory—something I hope resonates with whoever’s viewing it.

What Inspires Me

I’m constantly experimenting with new materials and techniques. I let curiosity guide my process, and I love that my work is always evolving. Whether I’m working on an abstract expression or something inspired by nature, I want people to feel something when they look at it. Some of my most popular pieces—like Neon Peonies, Wooly Mammoth, and Dragon Mischief—have connected with others in ways I never expected, and that’s the best part of doing this.

Why I Do What I Do

At the end of the day, I create for my mental health, love of art, and a dream to connect with others through my creativity. Whether you see a bit of yourself in a painting or it simply brings color to your space, I hope my work adds something meaningful to your world. For me, ACDCart isn’t just a creative outlet—it’s a way to share my story and connect with others through something visual, personal, and deeply human.

Art for Mental Health 

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and if you’re looking for a new outlet to help balance any stress in your life, here are a few of my recommendations:

1. You don’t have to be a professional! Don’t get stressed about buying expensive materials or feel the need to create a museum-worthy piece. Reminder, it’s the process, not the outcome. Start small with markers, crayons, blank paper or even a coloring book! There is no wrong way to express yourself.

2. Try Art Journaling by combining words and doodles in a notebook for a daily check in. Some great prompts: Draw what anxiety feels like or sketch  your safe space. 

Thanks for being here and letting me share this part of my journey. It's not easy to talk about the messiness of life - being laid off, mental health or needing help. But like my art, I'm really trying to put myself out there through honest, open expression and connection. I hope that by sharing a little of my own chaos and healing, it gives someone else permission to do the same. Whether you're picking up a paintbrush, a pen, or just taking a deep breath today—you’re creating something powerful. Keep going. And remember, in art, the messier the better. 💛