Delane Cooper: Multidisciplinary Artist, Dreamatizer and Superhero
Transforming adversity into a force for enriching others through creativity
At a time when the world—and democracy itself—often feels like it’s unraveling, I find solace in the knowledge that, here in Prince Edward County, we are surrounded by exceptionally talented, caring, and nurturing individuals. I also take great pride in celebrating these remarkable leaders whenever I can. One such person is Delane Cooper.
Delane is a multidisciplinary artist with a focus on jewelry design and a unique approach to her craft. She describes herself as a Dreamatizer, meaning that instead of sketching ideas immediately after meeting with clients, she meditates on their stories until the design concept reveals itself to her through her dreams. Once she has envisioned the design, she brings it to life crafting exquisite, one-of-a-kind pieces that quickly become cherished keepsakes.
Delane’s artistic journey is deeply personal, rooted in her own process of healing and overcoming the harrowing trauma of childhood sexual abuse. Through art, she found a path to recovery and self-discovery.
In addition to her artistic work, Delane is the author of her memoir, Letters to Eli: My Story, The Story of Many - a powerful book that chronicles her journey from despair as an innocent child to a woman who reclaims her strength and power. But her story doesn’t end there.
According to the Canadian Women’s Foundation, approximately 4.7 million women – or 30% of all women aged 15 and older – have been sexually assaulted outside of an intimate relationship at least once since age 15. This is an alarming statistic, and one that Delane addresses through The Lotus Hero Project, a not-for-profit organization that she co-founded.
With a vision to inspire others to become their own heroes, this organization uses art as a therapeutic tool to inspire and empower individuals, fostering resilience and improving mental health for children and adults who have experienced trauma. Delane clearly understands how art as form of expression can be a powerful outlet for communicating feelings, thoughts, and observations in ways words often cannot.
Not only is Delane an extraordinary artist who brings joy to others through her creations, but she is also a testament to resilience and strength. Her ability to rise above her own adversity and use her experience to support others is profoundly inspiring. She, herself, is truly heroic and her work is clearly needed.
I feel incredibly fortunate to know Delane. She is a true source of inspiration, not just to me but to everyone whose lives she touches.
If you wish to learn more about Delane, you can do so in a number of ways:
Her website is: Delane.ca
The Lotus Hero Project website is here: lotusheroproject.org
On Instagram she has two accounts:
To follow her jewellery making adventures, you can follow her HERE.
Delane follows a vegan lifestyle and is an excellent cook! You can follow her cooking adventures HERE.
I can't believe that I have never met Delane. She designed some beautiful jewelry for Michele. Also I note that she is a fellow plant-based eater so we should really compare notes some day!