Daisy E. Ferguson
SOULDEGA: When did you begin painting and what inspired you to explore this particular medium?
DAISY: I’ve pretty much painted on and off my entire life. I took a break from painting for many years. It wasn’t until I was diagnosed with cancer that I realized I wasn’t pursuing my passions. I started painting again that year. Though the base of my work is in acrylic paint, I do like to explore all mediums. I never like to limit my creativity.
SOULDEGA: What messages do you want to convey in your works?
DAISY: I like to create a space where conveying emotions and the expression of femininity are seen as strengths. As a transgender woman, it is important to me that softness and feminine nature can be embraced and accepted. Just because something lacks virility doesn’t make it any less impactful or powerful.How has your experience as a transgendered woman influenced your creative process?
SOULDEGA: Who are some of your favorite artists?
DAISY: There aren’t many artists that highlight androgyny and transgender individuals. So I like to play with shadows and sharp lines within my figures to add an ambiguous presence to them. That’s something that I want to continue to explore and develop in future works. I want my pieces to be able to reflect me, how I feel and bring a greater sense of inclusivity to the art world. Lillian Bassman’s photography has greatly influenced me as well as Rene Gruau’s fashion illustrations. Contemporary artists who I love are Michael Carson, Ronald Jackson and Laura Berger. But Picasso will alway be my first love haha.
SOULDEGA: What would you like your viewer to walk away with?
DAISY: I use my paintings as an emotional outlet. My art is a celebration of femininity, compassion/empathy and inclusivity. All I can hope for is that those feelings resonate with the viewer.
SOULDEGA: In an artist dream world, if you could get lost in a painting which one would it be and why?
DAISY: Ugh what a tough question!! There are so many great works, different styles and artists that I love! But i would have to go with Fragonard’s The Swing. I’m sucker for frills, flowers and laughter! And who doesn’t love a Rococo Masterpiece haha.