Artist Focus | Dani Bello – Healing Through Art and Community

Based in Derby, art psychotherapist Dani Bello has transformed her personal journey into a powerful practice that blends creativity, therapy, and community building. Growing up in Normanton, Dani noticed a lack of connection and support in the area. “There’s often a sense that not much happens here, and the area is sometimes looked down on,” she shares. That realisation became a driving force in her work -creating spaces where people not only come together but also find deeper connection with themselves.

Finding Home Through Art

Dani describes what she does as holding space for others to share their stories and process trauma through art. Art therapy, she explains, is a psychological intervention that allows people to express themselves and make sense of their experiences in a safe and creative way.

Her connection to art is deeply personal. Growing up with mixed heritage, she often felt caught between two worlds. “I wasn’t black enough or white enough for others,” she recalls. Struggling with anxiety and depression, art became her sanctuary. “Painting and creating always helped me feel heard and grounded. Art made me feel like I had a home.” That sense of belonging now shapes her work, as she helps others feel seen, heard, and supported through creative expression.

Highlights and Milestones

Dani’s journey has already been marked by standout moments. Appearing alongside Bill Bailey on Master Crafters on Sky Arts was a major highlight, giving her the opportunity to showcase the transformative power of art therapy on a national stage. But equally important to her was taking the leap into self-employment – leaving behind the security of a 9-5 job to pursue her passion full-time. “Finally making my first full wage doing what I love feels huge,” she reflects.

The Challenges of Carving a Path

Like many creatives, Dani has faced challenges along the way. She admits that self-employment brought periods of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. “I constantly questioned whether I was doing the right thing,” she says. There were also times when she undervalued her own work. “Anyone reading this – you deserve to be paid well, and trust me, people will pay you!”

Living with ADHD has added another layer to her journey. “I put so much of myself into what I do that I don’t always know when to stop and rest. I’m getting better at this though, because rest is important – especially in this line of work.”

Inspirations and Evolving Practice

Dani’s influences are as diverse as her practice. Musicians like Yungblud inspire her for their authenticity and dedication to creating safe spaces for fans, while RuPaul embodies unapologetic self-expression and empowerment. Philosophically, she draws on the work of psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott, particularly his ideas on therapeutic relationships.

Most of all, though, Dani’s inspiration comes from the people she serves. “Listening to the needs of the community and working toward creating positive change is what drives me.”

Over time, her approach has evolved from being strictly textbook-driven to a more client-centred practice. Evidence still underpins her work, but now her focus is on “listening to what clients need and helping them feel heard in the best possible way.”

What’s Next for Bello Mind & Soul

Looking ahead, Dani is building Bello Mind & Soul into something bigger than herself. She is expanding into a team and developing a centre dedicated to providing therapeutic services and community support.

Her vision is clear: to create a safe, welcoming space where people can connect, heal, and discover who they are. “I hope clients feel seen, heard, and able to be their most authentic selves,” she says. “My work is about building connection, safety, and trust.”

Where to Find Dani

You can find Dani at her studio at Banks Mill Studio 1.2, Bridge Street, Derby, or online:

• Instagram: @bello_mind_and_soul
• TikTok: @bellomindandsoul
• Email: bellomindandsoul.com

Final Words of Advice

For aspiring artists or therapists, Dani offers one simple but powerful piece of advice: “Go for it and never look back. If you have a dream, make it happen — what if it all worked out! Live your life doing what your soul truly desires.”

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