Why Artists Should Do A Solo Show: Artist and Poet Dan Collins Explores Pollinator/Not Pollinator

CJ interviews Dan about his current one-person show, "Pollinator / Not Pollinator (But mostly Bees)," at the Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park until April 28, and about the challenges of a solo show. Dan shares how he considered many different aspects when theming his show: 

• The Texas Discovery Gardens location 
• His attraction to drawing insects 
• His environmental consciousness 
• His poetry 
• A bit of humor  

He explains how producing a solo show differs significantly from submitting to a group show. It forces you to focus on your message, quality, and intent. A solo show expresses a unique aspect of you; who are you?  

Environmental awareness is a strong message for Dan's show. Art has a responsibility to express the existential issues that we face today. You cannot find a place on the earth that doesn't have evidence of human beings.  

Dan's show features paintings of insects and animals, all represented in a square format. Dan chose to present each creature abstractly to make an environmental statement. Additionally, he wanted to challenge himself compositionally by working within the confines of a small square. This exhibition showcases Dan's unique artistic style and his commitment to environmental awareness.  

Dan uses writing and fine art separately as well as together. CJ and Dan discuss how he included poetry in his show and agree that artists don't have to "stay in our lane." We can mix different artistic disciplines.   

Dan Collins, the local Dallas artist and poet, has maintained an artistic practice his entire life, participating recently in group shows such as Fresh Faces 2 x 2 at the White Rock Bath House and community art events such as the White Rock Studio Tour. He is co-owner of Tree House Studio with his wife, Rebecca, where they offer classes and workshops. His poetry has been published in various print journals and online. He is a commercial printer by profession. Now that he is closing in on retirement, he is looking forward to devoting all his time to visual and literary creative pursuits. He has contributed to and participated in the local literary scene in various capacities for over a decade. 

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