Exploring the Whimsical World of Cut Paper Characters with Dakota Noot

grayscale photo of woman holding pen writing on white paper

The Artistic Universe of Dakota Noot

In a realm where paper, scissors, and imagination collide, artist Dakota Noot crafts a whimsical world of art that defies traditional boundaries. His work is a fusion of drawing, painting, performance, and installation art, all coalescing into a vivid tapestry of human-animal hybrids, queer identity, and Midwestern themes. Learn more about the intersection of art and identity.

A Journey Through Coaxial Arts Residency

Currently, Noot is engaged in a week-long residency at Coaxial Arts, where he plans to unveil two nights of performances featuring his character, Medora, the Queen of Steaks. The performances aim to evoke a range of emotions in the audience, from laughter to tears, while challenging conventional thought. Discover more about Coaxial Arts and their artist residencies.

The Roots of an Artist

In an interview with L.A. WEEKLY, Noot delves into his artistic journey, which began in his father’s afterschool art classes. He credits his family’s unwavering support for his pursuit of art, describing his work as “A Coloring Book gone wrong (or right).” Read the full interview with Dakota Noot on L.A. WEEKLY.

Inspirations and Influences

Noot’s educational journey at Claremont Graduate University exposed him to various forms of art, including installation and performance art. He cites influential figures like Rachel Lachowicz, Amitis Motevalli, and Anne Bray as mentors who encouraged him to explore different artistic avenues. Explore Claremont Graduate University’s Art Program.

The L.A. Connection

Choosing Los Angeles as his creative hub, Noot praises the city’s diverse culture and film industry, drawing inspiration from iconic figures like Kenneth Anger and Roger Corman. His first exhibition experience was at the Hive Gallery in Downtown LA, a moment he fondly recalls for its unexpected yet delightful interactions.

Upcoming Performances and Future Collaborations

Noot’s current residency at Coaxial Arts will culminate in two performances on June 10 and 11, where he will interact with a cutout installation. When asked about potential collaborations, he names Vaginal Davis, an artist whose work and influence led him to move to Los Angeles. Follow Dakota Noot on Instagram for updates on his performances.

The Soundtrack of Creation

During his artistic process, Noot enjoys listening to the jazz soundtrack of Jess Franco’s film, Vampyros Lesbos, which adds an energetic vibe to his work. He also finds inspiration in European horror films, often incorporating references into his art.

For those interested in diving deeper into Dakota Noot’s enchanting world of art, you can visit his official website or follow him on Instagram and TikTok to stay updated on his latest projects and exhibitions.