10 Minutes With Amanda Dolan: New York Mixed Media Artist

Amanda Dolan

City:  New York, New York
Profession: Mixed Media Artist
Claim to Fame: My Collage Portrait of Janis Joplin hangs in The Museum of The Gulf Coast
Website: www.AmandaDolan.com
MySpace: www.myspace.com/AmandaDemanda

Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Clark Grossman

Who or what has most influenced your style, and why?

Courtney Love has always been my favorite Rockstar.  She has the most unique style. I love how she's super feminine but always has a razor sharp edge.  I enjoy dualities in fashion and in art. Courtney's style is so influential to me because she makes fearless statements through her clothes. I enjoy that and can relate to it--I've always dressed the way I wanted to, regardless of current trends. I think Courtney's style has helped me to be confident in the bold fashion choices I've made!
 

What trends and designers do you love right now?

Betsey Johnson is my current obsession. I'm really into her "Vintage Betsey" '80s line right now. I'm a sucker for big shoulder pads--and Betsey always delivers! Also, her jewelry line is so whimsical, girly and glam--I like to wear at least one funky piece a day.  I love how her designs are colorful and free--they are comfortable but make you feel pretty at the same time. I think that's important. Betsey is the epitome of sassy chic to me.   Anna Sui girly dresses with geometric patterns and bronze colors always rock.  I'm also a fan of American Apparel's leggings. I like all the neon shimmery colored ones.  I couple them with a plain black shirt and some cute heels and feel super sexy!  BDG jeans from Urban Outfitters are my all-time favorite jean at the moment.  I bought them in every color! They are made with spandex so they hug your body nicely and comfortably! And they are so flattering to your butt!

(Above titled: "For Jon-My Heartbeat")
 

What was your style like in High School?

I went to High School in the mid '90s so I wore a lot of Dr. Martins and baggy jeans--but that was cool then! I've always tried to be funky and cutting edge so some of my style has stayed the same. I wore a lot of pinks, blacks, and leopard prints in High School and still do today--those are my three  fashion staples--they always work and look good on me. My boldness has stayed the same since my High School days, I think I'm just a bit more sleek and stylized now! More figure-flattering tight garments and upscale modern jewelry. Less oversized flannel shirts and plastic watches and earrings!
 

What's your favorite bargain item in your closet?

I have a gorgeous pink sequined hat from the '20s I found at a thrift store in Boston.  I think I paid less than ten dollars for it and it's the most unique, beautiful and delicate piece I own. Whenever I wear it I get stopped on the street and complimented!   I also love the shoe line Patricia Fields did for Payless.  They are super inexpensive but totally fabulous! I have a pair of her neon blue stilettos and some silver sparkly flats. They always look good and jazz up my plain everyday clothes.
 

What beauty products are in your bag right now?

I have so many products...I've lost count! But here are my all time favorite essentials I use almost everyday:  Bliss Pore-Perfecting Facial Scrub, Chanel Double Perfection powder Compact in "Vanilla" and Chanel Liquid Eye Liner in Black. MAC LipGlass, PlushLash Mascara and "Electric Eel" blue eyeshadow. Shiny Mama eye glitter in "Snow."  And Jean Paul Gaultier's new perfume "Madame" (My boyfriend just bought it for me and it smells divine. I spritz it on everything!).

(Above titled: "Ice Queen")

You're on a trip and the airline lost your luggage. What 3 items do you rush out to buy right away?

Tight black leggings, MAC "Girl About Town" hot pink lipstick (I can't live without that color), and Speed Stick deodorant!
 

Have you changed your personal style along with your success?

I've always stayed true to my style;it hasn't changed very much. I've followed my grandmother's mantra of : 'Only Wear What You feel Good In' all my life. The only change might be my collection of uber-expensive designer pieces; a Chanel belt here, a Louboutin clutch there--but having a successful show helps me afford those luxuries!
 

What's the most surprising thing you've learned in your profession so far?

Ask and you shall receive! I've found that it never hurts to make an extra phone call or write a note to someone at a museum, gallery, or store. If you want something, you've got to be bold and ask for it!  You'd be surprised, most of the time if you're polite and enthusiastic your work will find itself a new home!

(Above titled: "Angel/Devil/Lover")

What are 3 things most people don't know about you?

1. The second I get home I change into my pajamas. (I'm like Hugh Hefner...I could live in my comfy pjs!!)
    
2. I write letters. (email is convenient, but I get so much joy out of hand writing a letter and sending via the PostMan!)
    
3. I have a pair of Converse Sneakers from the 8th grade I still wear on occasion!
    

Any words of wisdom for those trying to break into your profession?

Don't be too serious- have fun with your art! Trust your gut. And never turn down an opportunity to show your work--no matter where it is. My work got discovered from hanging in a pizza restaurant!

Learn more about Amanda Dolan and her artwork at www.AmandaDolan.com