Today we’d like to introduce you to Dora Natella.
Dora, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was raised and educated in Italy, where I studied sculpture in the classical tradition at the Academy of fine arts in Naples. Later, I move to the United States and earned an MFA In Sculpture at Western Michigan University, in Kalamazoo MI.
I have continued a practice that includes both teaching art at the collegiate level as well as my own work in the studio. Currently I am a Faculty at Indiana University. I am a member of the CSI, Chicago Sculpture International, I currently have an outdoor sculpture in Marquette Park near the Cultural Center in the South West side. The Sculpture is titled Sentinel. The male figures stand on top of a steel column gazing at the horizon appear to be guarding something precious.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My work is mostly figurative. I am fascinated with human landscape because it is so rich in metaphor it changes from person to person. I love portraiture for the same reason. All of my artwork is a continuous inquiry into the nature of the sculptural material, its integrity the process, and the perceptual construction of meaning.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
I agree the creative process requires focus and it is often a lonely activity. On the other hand, artists draw energy and inspiration from other artists. It is important to exchange ideas to grow as an artist, it is also crucially important from a professional standpoint to network with curators, museums, and galleries at professional conferences and Art Shows. It is essential to have a presence online through a website and social media. Network with others and be a part of a number of trade organizations.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
My artwork is displayed on the websites of sculpture organizations NSS National Sculpture Society, and ISC International Sculpture Center, CSI Chicago Sculpture International. My work is currently outdoors in Howard Park in South Bend IN. I will have sculpture displayed between June 2 and September 2018 at the Marshall Fredericks Sculpture Museum at Saginaw Valley State University University Center, Michigan.
Contact Info:
- Address: National Sculpture SocietyInternational Sculpure Center
- Website: www.doranatella.com
- Email: dcnatella@gmai.com
- Instagram: doranatella
- Facebook: @natelladora

Image Credit:
Dora Natella’s photos
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