Today we’d like to introduce you to Steve Dininno.
Hi Steve, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I’m an exhibiting fine artist who started as an illustrator at age 21. For over 30 years, I was a full-time conceptual illustrator (which means I both came up with visual concepts and created the paintings published in newspapers, magazines, brochures, on posters, etc.). In 2018, after doing a subway poster for New York’s MTA, I decided to retire from illustration to be a fine artist and part-time realtor. Well, the real estate career took off… and so did my fine art sales, meaning I’m now doing 2 full-time jobs! My expertise in real estate is helping buyers and sellers of industrial lofts in metro Atlanta! Being that “loft people” are usually the same people I know in my art and personal life, I always feel a connection between the creative world I move in and my loft-centered real estate business! It’s all one world for me!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
An artist has to keep creating constantly, whether people like what you’re doing or not. Waiting for “inspiration” is a fool’s errand. That said when I was starting as an illustrator… and later as a fine artist… there were times when it seemed as if I was getting nowhere. That made it hard to keep going.
Also, being self-employed is never an easy path. You need to be motivated and organized every day, and we’re easy on ourselves when there’s not a time clock to punch each morning. So, when I started at age 21, I lacked the discipline needed to really be productive. Luckily, as time went on, I learned from other people, from books, etc. how to value time.
Being a full-timer at two demanding jobs (realtor and artist), my greatest asset for managing my time is my calendar. I make sure to set it up so that every waking hour is accounted for, and I treat each entry like an appointment. Things pop up all the time that will disrupt my schedule, but my structured calendar helps enormously with my ability to be productive each day.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a painter and printmaker who focuses mostly on cityscapes… primarily New York City and my current city, Marietta, GA. I’m known mostly for my acrylic paintings on canvas, acrylic on Yupo paper, and my monotypes.
I suppose I’m most proud of the fact that I still look forward to creating every single day and that my focus is always on growing as an artist.
I rarely use paintbrushes, so I have my own way of making marks on a surface. My approach to light and dark and texture is pretty unique.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Don’t panic. Think things through, and don’t believe everything you hear.
Pricing:
- Depending on size and medium, my prices range from $200-$4000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stevedininnoart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevedininno/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.dininno
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-dininno/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SteveDininno
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevedininnorealestate3589
- Other: https://dkgallery.us/artist/steve-dininno
Image Credits
© Steve Dininno 2024
