Beau Dunn On Disrupting The Art World
Beau Dunn On Disrupting The Art World and Using Barbie to Highlight Societal Pressures Placed Upon Women
We speak to Beau Dunn, Visual Artist, Entrepreneur, Actress/Model & Philanthropist on how she disrupted the fine art world and became the A-lister’s most sought after artist.
Can you share a bit about your company, Beau Dunn Art?
BEAU DUNN Art, my creative and business sector, represents the culmination of my diverse roles as a contemporary artist, humanitarian, actress, model, and entrepreneur.
Launching in 2010, my art has earned recognition for its vibrant, mixed media compositions that utilize globally recognized consumer product imagery, such as Barbie Dolls and condom packaging. Through this playful yet candid approach, I offer social commentary on the subtleties and biases of consumer culture, as observed from an insider’s perspective.
Alongside my conceptual artistry and dedicated role as an art collector, I also spearhead innovative art distribution channels, pushing the boundaries of how art is shared and appreciated. My entrepreneurial spirit extends to the fashion and beauty industry, an arena I’ve been involved with since my youth. This intersection of interests has led to fruitful collaborations with luxury brands, such as my 22-piece statement jewelry collection inspired by my fine arts, released in partnership with London-based jeweler Celeste Starre in May 2022.
Philanthropy is another cornerstone of my work. Over the years, I’ve devoted myself to causes related to children’s health and well-being, animal care, and confidence-building. My humanitarian efforts include hands-on work in hospitals, social media fundraising, and donating special edition artworks to support organizations like Road Dogs, The Lipedema Foundation, Mattel Children’s Foundation, and UNICEF USA. In 2019, I was honored with the “Spirit of Elysium” award for my work with “Girl Talk,” an arts-based self-esteem workshop established by The Art of Elysium. I also recently became an ambassador for the Cancer Charity Walk With Sally after being diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer myself in 2021.
Currently, I reside in Los Angeles with my husband James, our twin babies Bella and Finn, and our three French Bulldogs French, Finn, and Flash. BEAU DUNN Art remains a testament to my multifaceted life, each aspect intertwined to create a tapestry of creativity, enterprise, and service.
What inspired you to begin your art career? How did you get here?
Growing up, I was constantly immersed in contemporary art. It captivated me and quickly became a vehicle through which I could express myself and my emotions. But my creative interests extended beyond one medium. Whether it’s creating visual art, acting, or modeling, I’ve always been drawn to the process of creation. Each medium offers a unique way to communicate and connect with others. Throughout my journey, there have been ups and downs, but my love for art and my ambition to make a difference through my work have been my guiding lights. Today, I take pride in creating work that not only mirrors my thoughts and feelings but also has the potential to make someone’s day a little brighter. No matter the medium, that’s an aspiration I’ll continually aim for.
I listened to your incredible podcast on the Skinny Confidential. How was that experience?
My experience on the Skinny Confidential podcast with Lauryn and Michael Bosstick was nothing short of extraordinary. Their ability to cultivate an atmosphere of trust and comfort was exceptional, which was crucial, especially given the deeply personal nature of the topics we were discussing. I was sharing aspects of my life that were incredibly personal, such as my injuries, health issues, and my journey to parenthood via surrogacy.
Despite the vulnerability that comes with such revelations, Lauryn and Michael have an innate ability to make their guests feel comfortable and supported. This created a space for authentic, meaningful conversations, which I greatly appreciated. Since the podcast, I’ve been fortunate enough to develop a beautiful friendship with Lauryn and Michael.
Being on their podcast was an amazing experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything. It was a chance for me to share my story and hopefully inspire others who may be on a similar path. I eagerly look forward to the opportunity to join them again on their podcast in the future.
On the podcast you mentioned you were using social media to disrupt the art world, can you speak more to that?
In today’s digital age, social media has become an instrumental tool in how we communicate and share our experiences. As a female visual artist, I’ve recognized the power that this platform holds and have chosen to use it to bridge the gap that has historically existed in the fine art world.
Traditionally, artists and their personal lives remained largely hidden, creating a somewhat untouchable aura around them. The primary point of contact for art collectors and enthusiasts was usually through galleries. However, the rise of social media has dramatically shifted this dynamic.
By sharing all aspects of my life, including my home life and art life, I’m bringing a level of transparency and accessibility that’s relatively new to the art world. This direct connection I’ve established with my audience through social media platforms enables me to engage with art collectors and followers on a more personal level. They can directly message me, tag my artwork, and be a part of my creative journey.
This level of interaction not only disrupts the traditional structure of the art world, but also strengthens the bond I have with my collectors and followers. It allows us to share experiences and ideas, fostering a sense of community that I cherish. In my view, this shift is a disruption for the better, creating an open, accessible, and more interactive art world.
Your art is categorized as “mixed media”. Have you used any forms of tech in your art or do you plan to in the future?
Absolutely, I have integrated elements of technology into my art in the past and I’m certainly open to doing so in the future. One instance that comes to mind was during my time studying studio art at Pepperdine. I created a Hello Kitty sculpture constructed entirely from multiple televisions, a blend of popular culture and technology that I found particularly intriguing.
Another notable piece I crafted is titled “Can You Hear Me Now,” which is a Hello Kitty sculpture made out of hundreds of vintage cell phones. This artwork is especially dear to me, as it explores the convergence of nostalgia, technology, and art in a unique way.
As a mixed media artist, I embrace the opportunity to work with varied materials, each offering a unique character and perspective to the final piece. The thrill of hunting for these materials, discovering the unexpected, and transforming them into art pieces, feels like a treasure hunt. It adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability to the process, which I genuinely love. This approach opens up a world of possibilities, allowing me to keep evolving and pushing the boundaries of my artistic expression.
What challenges have you faced being in the fine art world as a more contemporary artist?
As a contemporary artist operating within the fine art world, I’ve encountered a few challenges that have significantly shaped my journey. To begin with, the sense of not quite fitting into the conventional mold has been a consistent theme throughout my career. This feeling often stems from a sense of ‘imposter syndrome’ whenever I’m referred to as an artist, given that I’ve always felt a bit out of step with traditional expectations.
Another challenge has been reconciling my background with the stereotypical narrative of the struggling artist. Traditionally, artists have been perceived as individuals who grapple with adversity and hardship. However, as an affluent, white female, my reality has been different, and this distinction can sometimes lead to misaligned expectations and perceptions.
In addition, my contemporary art style doesn’t always mesh seamlessly with the aesthetic of more traditional galleries. This contrast has often required me to carve out my own path within the art world, a task that is challenging but also invigorating.
Despite these challenges, I am unapologetically committed to my journey as an artist. I cherish the opportunity to create art that brings joy, prompts discussion, and challenges norms. This commitment to my craft has taught me to value my individual path, even if it sometimes diverges from the traditional route. Paving my own way may require more effort, but it also allows for a greater sense of authenticity and personal satisfaction in my work.
You’ve spoken about your inspiration for Barbie art stemming from the societal pressures that women face, can you share more about this?
Barbie has served as a key inspiration and muse for much of my work. As an iconic, generational figure, Barbie carries with her a wealth of cultural and societal significance. Over the decades, she’s been a lightning rod for controversy, reflecting evolving societal expectations and debates around women’s roles, body image, and inclusivity.
Barbie was first introduced in the late 1950s as a fashion doll, yet her influence rapidly expanded beyond the realm of children’s toys. She became a reflection of society’s changing perceptions of femininity and women’s potential. Criticisms arose over Barbie’s unrealistic body proportions, perceived materialism, and the stereotypical roles she was often assigned in her various incarnations, ranging from a flight attendant to a bride.
Despite these controversies, Barbie has exhibited a resilience that is fascinating to consider. The doll has not only survived but also evolved in response to these critiques. Mattel, the manufacturer, has made efforts to diversify Barbie’s image in recent years, introducing dolls with various body types, skin tones, and careers to better reflect the diversity of the real world.
As an artist, I find this evolution and the conversations it sparks incredibly compelling. The ongoing discourse around Barbie offers a unique lens through which we can examine societal pressures that women face and how they have changed over time. My art seeks to tap into these discussions, using the familiarity and complex legacy of Barbie to challenge, engage, and hopefully inspire those who interact with my work.
Do you feel that social media has made these societal pressures worse for women?
Indeed, while social media has many positive aspects—like fostering connections, promoting information sharing, and offering platforms for creativity and self-expression—it has also significantly amplified societal pressures for everyone, not just women.
One major concern is the promotion of unrealistic expectations. Users often present a highly curated, idealized version of their lives, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and low self-esteem among viewers who compare their own lives to these seemingly perfect ones. This phenomenon is especially prevalent when it comes to body image. The widespread use of filters and photo editing apps contributes to unrealistic beauty standards, which can in turn lead to body dissatisfaction and other mental health issues.
Social media also encourages constant availability and instant response, leading to an “always-on” culture that can result in stress, burnout, and difficulty establishing boundaries between personal and professional lives. This digital environment can feel relentless and overwhelming.
Moreover, the rise of cancel culture and online trolling has exposed individuals to criticism and backlash on a scale that wasn’t possible before the advent of social media. This environment can stifle open conversation and cause emotional distress.
It’s important to note that awareness about these potential pitfalls is growing, and many people are now advocating for healthier social media practices, including digital detoxes, setting boundaries, and promoting more realistic and diverse representations of beauty and success. As an artist active on social media, I aim to contribute to these positive trends, using my platform to promote authenticity, inclusivity, and positive self-expression.
We can’t help but ask…what are your thoughts on the new Barbie movie?
I am genuinely thrilled about the upcoming Barbie movie! As an artist who has drawn considerable inspiration from Barbie, I’m always intrigued to see how other creatives interpret this iconic figure in their respective mediums. The idea of bringing Barbie to life on the big screen opens up a myriad of possibilities, and I’m eagerly anticipating seeing the filmmakers’ take on this beloved character.
Moreover, I’m a huge fan of Margot Robbie, she’s a fantastic actress with an undeniable charisma, and I’m confident she will bring a unique and compelling dimension to the character.
And let’s not forget the fashion. Given Barbie’s history as a fashion doll and the various stylish ensembles she’s donned over the decades, I’m particularly excited to see how the costume design for the movie interprets and pays homage to Barbie’s fashion legacy. This movie isn’t just an exploration of Barbie as a character, but also a celebration of her influence in the fashion world. I’m eagerly awaiting the visual spectacle that it promises to be!
You started a direct to consumer website to purchase your art pieces. Can you tell us more about the “why” behind this?
Absolutely, I’m thrilled to share more about my upcoming direct-to-consumer art platform. It’s a project I’ve been passionately working on, driven by my belief that the traditional gallery model needs to evolve to meet the changing demands of today’s art world.
Historically, the art industry has been somewhat exclusive and elitist, with galleries serving as the primary gatekeepers between artists and potential buyers. While this model has its merits, it can also create barriers that prevent a wider audience from accessing and purchasing art.
With the rise of digital platforms and the changing consumer behavior, I saw an opportunity to create a more inclusive and accessible art-buying experience. This led to the development of my direct-to-consumer website, which is designed to democratize access to my art pieces.
By selling my art directly to clients and collectors via my own platform, I can foster closer relationships with the people who appreciate my work. It bypasses the traditional snobbery that can sometimes be associated with the gallery-centric art world. My fundamental belief is that everyone deserves a seat at the table when it comes to enjoying and owning art.
This new approach isn’t just about selling art—it’s about creating a more inclusive, engaging, and customer-friendly experience. By breaking down barriers and disrupting the status quo, I hope to make the art world a more welcoming and accessible place for everyone.
Do you feel that social media has increased your buyer reach?
Yes, unequivocally, social media has significantly expanded my buyer reach. It’s provided a platform to showcase my work to a global audience, thereby increasing visibility and accessibility to potential collectors that I may not have been able to reach through traditional channels.
Additionally, social media has also facilitated connections with a broad range of individuals, including notable celebrity clientele. When these high-profile collectors share my artwork with their followers, it provides an invaluable form of promotion. Their endorsements have a powerful network effect, spreading word of my work far and wide.
What’s more, social media allows me to engage directly with my audience. I can receive feedback, answer questions, and forge personal connections with art enthusiasts and collectors alike. These relationships are invaluable, not just for selling art, but also for understanding the tastes and preferences of my audience, informing my creative process, and ultimately creating art that resonates with people.
All in all, social media has been instrumental in amplifying my reach and cultivating a diverse and engaged audience for my art.
How do you feel that technology will impact the art world?
The impact of technology on the art world is profound and continually evolving. We’ve already seen significant shifts in how art is created, curated, shared, and sold, and I believe we’re just at the beginning of this technological transformation.
One of the most exciting developments has been the rise of digital art, particularly with the advent of Artificial Intelligence. Artists are now using AI as a tool to create stunningly complex and unique works of art. These technologies push the boundaries of creativity, allowing artists to experiment in ways previously unimaginable.
Moreover, the emergence of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) has revolutionized how digital art is bought, sold, and collected. NFTs provide a mechanism to authenticate and establish ownership of digital artworks, solving a longstanding challenge in the digital art space. The NFT boom has opened up a new marketplace for artists, allowing them to monetize their digital art in the same way that physical artists have done for centuries.
The rise of virtual and augmented reality technologies also offers exciting possibilities. These tools can create immersive art experiences, transforming how audiences interact with art. From virtual galleries to art pieces that incorporate AR elements, these technologies are redefining the boundaries of artistic expression.
Looking ahead, I believe that these technological innovations will continue to reshape the art world, making it more accessible, diverse, and dynamic. Artists will have more tools at their disposal and greater opportunities to share their work with a global audience. Collectors will have new ways to discover and invest in art. And perhaps most importantly, these technologies will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in art, challenging us all to reimagine the realm of artistic expression.
When shooting your photos of the Barbies and creating your pieces, what kind of technology do you use?
In creating my Barbies, I utilize a blend of traditional art techniques and modern technology. The process begins with shooting photos of the Barbies using a high-quality digital camera. This allows me to capture intricate details and nuanced expressions that bring out the personality and character of these iconic dolls.
Once the photos are captured, I then use digital editing software, primarily Adobe Photoshop, to fine-tune the images. This involves adjusting lighting and colors, refining details, and manipulating the backgrounds. Photoshop provides an incredible range of tools that allow me to enhance the visual impact of my work and achieve the exact aesthetic I envision.
By incorporating technology into my creative process, I’m able to experiment and innovate in ways that were not possible with traditional methods alone. It enables me to control every aspect of the image and craft each piece with a high degree of precision and creativity.
It’s important to note that while technology plays a vital role in my work, the human element—my vision, intuition, and emotional connection to the subject matter—remains central to the creation of each piece. The technology is simply a tool that helps bring my artistic vision to life.
I know you run multiple businesses, what are your favorite apps you use on the daily to keep yourself and your businesses running smoothly?
Managing multiple businesses certainly requires a diverse suite of tools to keep everything running smoothly. Here are some of the apps that I rely on daily:
- Dropbox: A fantastic cloud storage solution that allows me to access my files from any device, anywhere. It’s also a great tool for sharing large files with my team or collaborators.
- Preview: I use Preview to plan out my Instagram posts ahead of time. It allows me to visually design my feed, ensuring that my posts are cohesive and aligned with my brand aesthetic.
- Instagram: As a visual artist, Instagram is crucial for showcasing my work and engaging with my audience. I also use it for inspiration and to keep up with the latest trends in the art world.
- Threads: Such a fun new and exciting app. I love connecting with my friends and followers on another platform.
- Zoom: This platform is indispensable for virtual meetings, especially given the remote nature of much of today’s work. It allows me to connect face-to-face with my team, no matter where we are in the world.
- FreshBooks: A user-friendly accounting software that simplifies managing finances. It’s a lifesaver for invoicing, tracking expenses, and generating financial reports.
- Sendle: A reliable, cost-effective shipping service. . It’s environmentally conscious, which aligns with my personal values, and it offers excellent tracking capabilities.
- Squarespace: The platform I use for building and managing my websites. It offers beautifully designed templates and is easy to use, making it ideal for showcasing my art portfolio and managing my online stores.
These apps help me streamline my workflow, collaborate effectively with my team, and ensure that all aspects of my businesses run efficiently. They allow me to focus more on my creative work, knowing that the logistical side of things is well taken care of.
What motivates you to be a disrupter in the art world?
What fuels my desire to be a disruptor in the art world is the passion to democratize art and make it more accessible to a wider audience. Traditionally, the fine art world has been perceived as exclusive, reserved for a select few. I believe art should be a universal experience, an expression of our shared humanity that is open to everyone.
I am motivated by the prospect of using my platform and my art to challenge and reshape these outdated norms. By leveraging social media and technology, I aim to break down the barriers that have historically existed in the art world, making it more transparent and inclusive.
Moreover, as a woman and a contemporary artist, I recognize that my perspective is unique and can bring fresh insights to the art scene. In a field often dominated by traditional voices, my work can challenge the status quo, provoke dialogue, and inspire change.
Being a disruptor also means constantly evolving and pushing boundaries. I am driven by the endless possibilities for exploration and innovation in art, particularly with the advent of new technologies. The excitement of discovering new mediums, experimenting with different techniques, and redefining what art can be is an incredibly powerful motivator.
Ultimately, my motivation comes from a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of art. If my work can spark curiosity, evoke emotion, challenge perspectives, and make art more accessible, then I believe I have made a meaningful contribution as a disruptor in the art world.
Finally, what is the best career advice you’ve received?
One of the most valuable pieces of career advice I’ve ever received came from Shepard Fairey, the acclaimed street artist. He advised me to “go against the grain”. If everyone is showing work and hosting exhibitions during a popular event like Art Basel, consider doing it at another time when the spotlight can be solely on you and your work.
This advice has resonated deeply with me and guided many of my career decisions. Most recently, it influenced my decision around the timing of my work coinciding with the release of the new Barbie movie. While it was tempting to ride the wave of excitement and create a large activation during this period, I recognized the potential for my work to get lost amidst the noise.
By choosing a different timing, I ensure that my work can stand out and be appreciated on its own merits, without competing with other events or themes. This approach may seem counterintuitive in an industry often driven by trends and buzz, but it’s allowed me to carve out my own space and make a unique impact.
Fairey’s advice has proven to be incredibly insightful time and time again. It’s taught me the importance of authenticity and having the confidence to chart my own path, even if it veers away from the mainstream. It’s a principle that I continue to uphold in my career and one that I’d pass on to other artists as well.