Denise Vakili Born and raised in the Los Angeles, California, suburbs, Denise Vakili has always been drawn to creative things. While growing up, her home was filled with music and art as her father was a talented visual artist and guitarist. Immersed in this creative environment, it was natural that Vakili would pursue fine art. Vakili completed her formal training at San Diego State University, receiving her bachelor’s degree in journalism/advertising, completing a minor in fine art. Under acclaimed faculty, she studied painting in various mediums, many forms of drawing, ceramics, photography and art history. Since graduating, her work has taken many paths, with one common theme: a peaceful journey. In all of her works, Vakili takes the viewer on a peaceful ride, with the goal of a quiet visual experience where the eyes can rest in the midst of chaotic, everyday life. Currently residing in San Diego, California, USA, Vakili’s work is driven by the magic of the Pacific Ocean. Her happy and colorful artistic style is inspired by nature, travel and spirituality, incorporating texture and pleasing color palettes that create an escape for the viewer that calms and soothes the mind. Most of her pieces are done in acrylic paint, some including pencil, pastel, wax pencil, and paper collage.