Dan Smith’s Art

Dan Smith is an artist deeply connected to his work, much like Van Gogh. His mind races with ideas, and he pours his soul into the stories he tells through his art. Since 1989, when he began his Master's thesis, "ManLandSee," Smith has been sharing these stories with the world.

With a BFA in Painting from East Carolina University and an MFA in Painting from the University of South Carolina, Smith has participated in numerous juried shows and taught art studio and humanities for over 30 years.

In our limited time with him, we were captivated by the stories he shared. Smith's art often explores themes of Native American culture, the cyclical nature of life, and ecology, which he considers the foundation of his work. The numbers 12 and 7 recur in his art, symbolizing different aspects like animals representing each month or a connection to baseball player Mickey Mantle.

Smith's Native American heritage, which he discovered through genealogy research, plays a role in his fascination with indigenous cultures. His art takes him across the country, and his upcoming exhibition, "OKOKOK," leads him to Oklahoma, where he feels a sense of homecoming.

This exhibition will be unique, as Smith plans to incorporate Native American traditions and rituals, focusing on the concept of "recovering the ball" as described by Oglala Sioux Spiritual Leader Black Elk. Smith's art examines the symbolism of the ball, drawing connections to various aspects of nature, science, and culture.

Dan Smith's work is thought-provoking and expansive. His current project, "OKOKOK," is just one of twelve shows he intends to complete, each offering a glimpse into his vast artistic vision.

Completed and Upcoming Exhibitions:

1. ManLandSee: SC to Smith Center KS
2. InCarNation: The Hampton Roads 400 VA
3. ManInfested Destiny: From Boone to Boon, Boone NC
4. US: A Civil War Interpretation: Columbia SC
5. OKOKOK: A Mantle of Lament: Spavinaw OK (current)
6. Pan'sphere: JerUSAlem 
7. Four Corners Connection: Exploring the Crossroads of America (upcoming)
8. EarthWalk: A Journey through Native Landscapes (upcoming)
9. Cosmic Baseball: Celestial Bodies in Play (upcoming)
10. Spirit of the Waters: Honoring Indigenous Traditions (upcoming)
11. Guardians of the Earth: Animals as Symbols (upcoming)
12. Ancestral Echoes: Uncovering the Past, Shaping the Future (upcoming)

As Dan Smith continues to create and exhibit his artwork, audiences will have the opportunity to explore a myriad of themes and topics. His upcoming exhibitions promise to delve into subjects such as the significance of geographic locations in the United States, the spiritual aspects of indigenous cultures, and the profound connections between the natural world, celestial bodies, and humanity.

Through his unique artistic lens, Smith encourages viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of preserving the cultural and ecological heritage of our planet. By immersing himself in these diverse themes, Smith seeks to convey a message of unity and understanding in a world that is often divided.

Dan Smith's artistic journey is a testament to the power of art as a means of communication, education, and inspiration. As he unveils each new exhibition, audiences can look forward to experiencing the depth of his creativity and the passion with which he brings his ideas to life.