Please note: Some of Gisela’s artwork contains depictions of nudity and themes of violence. Whilst none are featured in this article, please take care when researching more about Gisela.
Who is Gisela?
Gisela McDaniel is an Indigenous Chamorro artist who incorporates technology, social research and oil painting together to tell the stories of women and non-binary people of colour. Whilst Gisela’s art is so powerful when it is viewed, what makes it even more powerful is the use of motion sensor technology that brings the artwork into an observer’s view when they are close, and can “talk back” to the observer. This is done by the painting being embedded with sensors on the surface. She hopes that the incorporation of these technologies helps bring the viewer closer to the subject of the painting, and also references the ‘talking story’ practice that stems from her Pasifika culture.
How did Gisela get to where she is today?
Gisela has always loved art, with her passion being sparked when she was only 7 years old. Her art teacher had told her that her art was similar to that of Gauguin, a male artist who often painted women. Gisela wondered how the women felt about being pictured in these paintings. Did they know they were in this painting? Did they like it? Did they choose whether they wanted to be in it or not? This, along with Gisela’s experience of trauma, inspired her to start drawing herself. This drawing then grew into drawing and painting others, so she could share the benefit she got from it.
What advice would Gisela give?
“I hope that people understand how much of a gift [my art] is and how much intimacy is involved in this practice. There’s a lot of layers to it, and I hope people walk away just thinking about the fact that we all carry things and that we should be gentle with each other, we should be caring with each other.” – Hourdetroit
“I keep lots of plants around me for inspiration, as well as flowers I dry for the paintings. I usually listen to podcasts or books while I work, and the day flies by.” – She Curates
