Idaho local and educator, Dallin Mena’s work is rooted in the wildlife, people, and stories of the American West. As a self-taught artist, Dallin has enjoyed sketching and watercolor from an early age. He retained art as a hobby into adulthood as he pursued a career in education. At the request of a student, Dallin dusted off his brushes and returned to art. Inspired by the open spaces and wildlife of Idaho, he aspired to learn oil painting so he could properly show the wonder and beauty of Idaho.

Based in Boise, Idaho, Dallin teaches art fulltime at an elementary level, working to instill the love or art in Idaho’s youth. His work with children has shaped his approach to art, daily reinforcing his belief that we need not learn to be creative, only cultivate and preserve our inherent ability.

Dallin gained modest recognition in Idaho, painting and selling commission work and developing a portfolio of other works.

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