Dana Donkle ~ Octopus Garden Art

 

Art and nature have always been a center in my life~ they're what keep me grounded during my trip on this silly floating rock. 

I still remember sketching little fish in my notebook after my first snorkeling trip. I loved drawing fish, but also dragons, horses — whatever sparked my imagination. Over time, those sketches evolved into the art style I practice today. I started learning painting techniques in middle school, and I still discover new ways to create every day.

My art became more public when I moved to Florida to pursue my passion for marine science. Working as a marine science educator with several nonprofits, I designed my first mural for the Pigeon Key Foundation during the 2020 lockdown. Since then, I’ve painted murals for other organizations, as well as for private homes and businesses. My work has been shown in galleries, art shows, and music events across Southwest Florida.

Now, I’m chasing the dream of life on the road — traveling the U.S. in a camper, bringing my art wherever I go. Every new landscape brings fresh inspiration. Our earth is precious, and I strive to capture fleeting moments of wonder through a surrealist, impressionistic lens — blending the otherworldly allure of octopuses with the pure beauty of flowers. Whether I’m live painting or setting up at a market, I use my art to amplify the voice of nature.

You’ll find me in cities, at festivals, on the road — or deep in the swamp.