Dana Haddon is founder of CereusArt a nautical blog and store, selling handcrafted coastal decor. Dana has lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia all of her life so the ocean has been an immense influence on her, providing constant inspiration. Establishing CereusArt in 2011, Dana now sells classic and contemporary decor accessories from her coastal decor boutique. Having been featured on numerous blogs and magazine we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Dana Haddon.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My artistic style and creative aesthetic revolve around my love for simple and classic sea-inspired designs that highlight natural beauty, a softer color palette and unique textures.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
My initial inspiration for a new project is generally drawn from a color palate that sparks my interest and creative spirit. I then identify the textures and materials which best partner with that scheme. From there, the design continues to take shape as I explore how to best showcase the natural beauty of the sea with the combined elements.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
While I have great admiration and have been uniquely inspired by so many of the creative folks I have been blessed to work with, I have always found constant creative inspiration and have the utmost respect for fellow artist, Katy Blevins. She is a driven photographer, blogger and studio owner who has a true heart for empowering the natural beauty of women. Her inspiration and commitment to exploring new avenues without fear and with intuitive design always challenge me to take my art to new heights.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I challenge myself to seek inspiration outside of my specific genre and industry. Moving beyond the creative design I’m most likely to see on a daily basis, I aim to find a way to interpret other genres, like fashion and photography, into a sea-inspired project that channels this newly found idea into my design elements and style.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I have been immeasurably blessed by the amazing friendships I have developed in the creative community. The constant support of a very closely-knit group of creative peers has not only kept me grounded, but has inspired and challenged me to take the next step in my artistic career time and time again. My best piece of advice would be to seek genuine relationships that can serve you professionally, but even more importantly, serve you personally and creatively. Genuinely give your heart and support to others and be open to receiving help, direction and creative love in return.
