Dani Lewis
Artist Statement
Dani is a Detroit native and lifelong artist who has always found joy in exploring different creative forms. Now based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where she has lived for the past 17 years, her current work focuses on reimagining traditional bas relief techniques to center Black representation—bringing new life and perspective to a timeless medium. Inspired by a visit to an arboretum with her daughter, where a serene installation of sculpted faces moved across the walls, Dani became captivated by the emotional stillness of bas relief. Her curiosity led her to discover plaster as a contemporary material being reinterpreted by modern artists, and she quickly fell in love with its texture, depth, and quiet elegance.
What began as artistic curiosity has evolved into a powerful visual language for honoring identity, presence, and cultural legacy. Dani’s work is deeply personal—each piece shaped by her desire to see faces like hers reflected in classical artistic traditions. Through her art, she celebrates beauty, strength, and stillness, while inviting viewers to engage with imagery that is both familiar and expands the narrative of who is seen and celebrated in fine art.
Venues
