Dawn Howell
Dawn Howell is an artist based in Austin Texas.
About her practice she shares “I'm an artist devoted to bringing magic to each day through painting. As a mental health advocate, I believe deeply in the power of art to support emotional well-being. I strive to create work that uplifts, soothes, and inspires.
My paintings celebrate color’s ability to evoke happiness, nostalgia, and wonder—offering a space to pause, reflect, and find beauty in the present moment. Nature, dreams, and deep nostalgia influence my work, but I’m primarily guided by color itself. I paint intuitively, letting each piece unfold organically rather than following a strict plan or sketch.
I often begin with an idea or emotion and allow the colors to lead the way, layering soft pastels, bold neon accents, and shimmering details to create dreamlike compositions. Texture is also a vital element in my process, adding depth and a tactile quality that invites closer engagement. A love for the past is woven throughout my practice. I grew up antiquing and collecting vintage treasures, and that sense of nostalgia continues to shape my work. I often incorporate vintage elements, such as antique frames, as a way of bringing the past into the present. My style blends the charm of bygone eras with a contemporary sensibility—merging vintage aesthetics with modern color palettes, textures, and playful details. Through my paintings, I hope to create small escapes—places where reality softens, imagination thrives, and the beauty of color takes center stage.”
Learn more about Dawn at her website
