DAN LAM. What a pinch-me-moment it was to have her on the show. SO many interesting topics got touched on in this conversation: how and why beauty is easily dismissed in art, Dan’s thoughts on a recent negative comment and the issue of gatekeeping in the art world, the stigmas she’s protesting (like fun! and psychedelic use!), how she’s dealt with copying, advice for creating strong work and tons more.
It was powerful to talk to someone with so much experience who’s holding down very healthy and important perspectives for the whole art community. In fact, I almost titled this episode “Dan Lam is Awesome,” (true story) because that was how I walked away feeling from our chat. I know you all are going to appreciate it as much as I did.
WE TALKED ABOUT…

Dismissing beautiful work

Balance and self care

Destigmatizing psychedelics

Gatekeeping in the art community

Copying vs Influencing

Advice for artists


BIO
Dan Lam’s work straddles the line between numerous dichotomies. By navigating the
realm between attraction and repulsion, organic and inanimate, seriousness and
playfulness, soft and hard, Lam conjures up her idiosyncratic vision. As a result, the
work strikes a deft balance between seemingly disparate concepts, subsequently
inspiring a range of emotions and ideas from the viewer.
Known for her bold and unique sculptures, she rose to popularity and prominence
through social media, particularly Instagram. Her body of work ranges from gallery
exhibitions to large scale installations to brand collaborations. She exhibits in the US
and internationally.
Lam was born in the Philippines while her family was immigrating from Vietnam to the
United States. She was raised in Texas where she received her Bachelor in Fine Arts
from the University of North Texas in 2010. She received her Masters in Fine Arts in
2014 from Arizona State University.
Lam currently resides and works in Dallas, TX, USA.
FOLLOW DAN
www.bydanlam.com
Dan on IG: @sopopomo
MENTIONS
“Playing to the Gallery” by Grayson Perry
The Botany of Desire (documentary)
“How to Change Your Mind” by Michael Pollan
Meow Wolf
Martin Creed
FOLLOW THE SHOW
@artandmagicpodcast
@devonwalzart
www.devonwalz.com