Layers of Light: The Abstract Journey of Drita Dawn

As I write my blog, Bohemian Sarasota, and interview Sarasota’s artists, I’ve discovered something truly special about this experience—it’s like stepping into entirely different worlds, each shaped by unique perspectives and deep emotions. These conversations are about understanding the psychology behind it, the journey that leads to what we finally see. Art is just the visible tip of the iceberg. Beneath every painting, sculpture, or installation lies a sea of deep thought, raw emotions, and complex, personal work that often goes unseen. Artists are genuinely extraordinary individuals; they all have my most profound respect for how they channel their lives into their work.

Visiting Drita Dawn, an abstractionist (https://dritadawnart.wixsite.com/authentic) at her studio, felt like entering a world where emotion and creativity are given free rein. She was born in 1994 to an American-Albanian family, and her name, “Drita,” translates to “sunrise.” It’s a fitting symbol for the warmth and energy she brings to her art and Sarasota’s creative community. From an early age, Drita was drawn to artistic expression. Growing up, her life was a balance of creative exploration and discipline. She practiced martial arts for over ten years, obtaining a third-degree black belt, which instilled in her a strong sense of focus while immersing herself in various forms of self-expression. Her third and fifth-grade art teachers played a crucial role in inspiring her to pursue creativity, and although life took her in different directions for a time, art always called her back.

Drita’s path to becoming a full-time artist was far from linear. At 19, she trained in real estate, dabbled in other careers, and pursued structured lifestyles, but something about these paths never felt quite right. She always painted on the side—her easel was a constant in her life, no matter where she went. Then, five years ago, she boldly decided to leap. She quit her job and committed herself fully to her art.

Her first step into professional art came with a couple who discovered and began collecting her work. They commissioned several pieces and continued supporting her, eventually owning eleven works. Their belief in her talent gave Drita the backing to pursue art full-time.

Today, Drita works out of Palmer Modern, an artist-run gallery and work studios at 925 N Lime Avenue. It’s become her creative haven, where she can immerse herself in her work and find the focus she needs to create. Drita specializes in large-scale abstract paintings that allow her to channel her full energy into each piece. Working on smaller canvases doesn’t have the same emotional impact on her. She loves the physicality of throwing paint and how her body becomes part of the creative process.

Her art is deeply personal, often reflecting her emotions, spirituality, and life experiences. Drita believes she can only create when she’s spiritually aligned with herself. Her process is unique—she often begins by journaling or writing directly onto the canvas, layering emotions and thoughts before building the final visual. To her, each piece is a manifestation of a moment in her journey, designed to resonate with the viewer on a deeply emotional level.

Nature profoundly influences Drita’s work. She describes it as her “religion,” drawing inspiration from camping trips, the hum of honeybees in her garden, and the moon's phases. A recent trip to Alaska with her mentor left a lasting impression, introducing her to vast, untouched landscapes that further fueled her creative spirit.

Drita’s art is in several Sarasota venues, including The Artful Giraffe, Fam Cuisine, and Legacy Settlement Services. 

She’s also completed murals and design projects for local businesses like Sarasota Chiropractic, adding her vibrant designs to brighten everyday spaces. Her connection to the Sarasota art community runs deep, and she regularly participates in local events with neighboring artist studios like Creative Liberties and nonprofit organizations like Equal SRQ and the Halo Arts Project.

Drita’s unique philosophy is the driving force behind the powerful impact of her art. She approaches art as a way to connect with herself and others. For her, creating isn’t about producing something for the sake of it—it’s about engaging in what she calls the “child state of play,” a mindset of pure exploration and freedom. She believes that every person has a creative side. “We’re all artists,” she says. “We just need to let go of our egos and embrace the freedom of creation.” She’s a lifelong learner, constantly challenging herself to explore new techniques and ideas, like teaching herself to write with her left hand or experimenting with new textures and tools.

This year hasn’t been without challenges for Drita. After an accident in early 2024 left her with an injury, she had to re-imagine her approach to life and art. The injury impacted her energy and physical abilities, but she didn’t let it stop her. Instead, she adapted, even teaching herself to paint with her non-dominant hand.  

Drita has no significant exhibitions planned; however, she will return to the Art Ovation Hotel (where we met). She focuses on creating meaningful work that connects with others. While she dreams of one day taking her art to larger cities like Miami, her heart remains deeply tied to Sarasota and the inspiration she finds in its community and nature.

Meeting “Drita Dawn” Hajroja made me reflect on the depth of an artist’s mind—how their spiritual connection and creative vision can never fully be explained, only felt. Artists like her don’t just create; they bring life into the world, coloring it like a kaleidoscope—same colors, infinite pictures. Without them, life would be far too blank.

Follow Drita on Instagram: @AuthenticDritaDawnArt 

Photos: IruPhotos.com