As a seasoned artist and entrepreneur, I have spent over a decade dedicating myself to various roles, including executive director, volunteer, business owner, teacher, mother, and public servant. Throughout my diverse career, I have consistently brought my artistic talents and passion for community engagement to each endeavor.

My journey began at the age of 20 when I started volunteering in my local community, working with Parks and Recreation and local school systems. Early on, I recognized the vital role the arts play in our society and committed myself to bridging the gap between people and their communities through creative projects. Over the years, I have contributed to my community by organizing and participating in festivals, community classes, art exhibits, public events, and philanthropic initiatives. From painting a child's face with a whimsical unicorn to creating a stunning mural 15 feet in the air, I have always found joy in using my artistic abilities to connect with others.

As a skilled mural painter, I have developed a keen eye for detail, color harmony, and composition, while mastering various techniques and mediums to create impactful and visually striking murals. My ability to work on large-scale projects has allowed me to collaborate with diverse groups, including local governments, businesses, and community members, ensuring that each piece resonates with its intended audience and becomes a cherished part of the community's landscape.

My "can-do" attitude and willingness to say yes to new opportunities have afforded me a rich array of experiences. I have been a featured artist in the annual juried "Gorge Artists Open Tour" (2017), a top-rated artist for "paintnite.com" for five consecutive years, and a recipient of the "Golden Brush" award, based on 300+ five-star reviews. Additionally, I am an honorary and official member of "The Walldogs”, an international mural paining organization founded in 1993. I’m a longstanding volunteer and board member of "The Dalles Mainstreet" nonprofit organization, and the successful owner and operator of Manion Studios for over seven years.

My strong community rapport is one of my proudest accomplishments, as I am known for my creativity, teamwork, and involvement in various projects. With a 13+ year career in bringing art to communities, I have honed my skills in collaboration, learning from local governments, nonprofits, and public works, and working alongside businesses, schools, and communities across more than 10 cities.

I am not only capable but enthusiastic about the work I do. I am eager to continue using my talents to create positive change and foster community connections through art.

See some of Denae’s artwork here.