The Dafeney Josue Art Collection is the newest art installation at Orlando Public Library on display through June. Dafeney Josue is a self-taught mixed media artist based in Orlando. Dafeney’s artwork celebrates Black women and femininity in vibrant and captivating ways. Below is an interview with the artist.
What do you hope viewers take away from your artwork?
I hope they are inspired and empowered. I want them to feel seen, celebrated and encouraged to embrace their identity unapologetically, especially Black women and girls.
What are some of the key details or elements that you wanted to highlight in your pieces?
I always highlight Black femininity. That’s at the heart of my work. I may use different materials, colors or techniques – from fabrics and crushed glass to vibrant acrylics – but the focus remains the same: honoring the beauty, resilience and power of Black femininity.
How does your personality reflect in your work?
My personality is warm, vibrant and a little eclectic, and that naturally shows up in my work from the bold colors I choose to the movement in my brushstrokes and the intentional details throughout each piece. I always try to infuse a sense of joy, emotion and soul into every canvas.
What motivates you to create?
What drives me is the power of representation, healing and purpose. As a child, I rarely saw artwork that reflected my culture or my story. Today, I create the kind of art I needed back then; work that affirms, uplifts and tells our stories with pride. I’m also constantly inspired by the children I teach. Seeing how creativity sparks confidence and joy in them reminds me why I keep creating.
What do you do to combat creative block?
As an artist, I’ve learned not to fight it. The best thing you can do is actually step away from art. Rest, live a little and trust that inspiration will return. Sometimes you’ll come back with a full-blown painting; other times, it might be a sketch or a color study. But no matter how long it takes, you always find your way back.
How has your practice changed over time?
In the beginning, I followed tutorials and experimented with techniques. Now, my practice is more intentional. I create from lived experiences, community stories and spiritual growth. I’ve also expanded into mixed media and teaching, which has deepened the way I approach both the process and the purpose behind my work.
What do you remember being your first creation that sparked your desire to create more?
My first piece was emotional and raw: a black, white and blue abstract painting of a teary eye on an 8×10 canvas, created on my back patio. After that, I started diving into YouTube tutorials and recreating project after project. That’s when I discovered just how freeing and healing art could truly be .
Dafeney Josue’s work is more than just visual art—it’s a heartfelt tribute to culture, identity, and emotional expression. Her collection at the Orlando Public Library is a celebration of Black femininity, and a powerful reminder of the beauty in being seen, heard, and unapologetically authentic.
