Danielle O'Connor Akiyama was born in Toronto, Canada, and grew up in a creative environment where her mother and sisters painted and her father was known as 'the mad inventor'. She suffered an illness as a teenager that led to her travelling the world, as a natural rehabilitation, and the spiritual insight she experienced during this time provided the foundation for all her creations. She studied Art Therapy, and has also completed a rigorous study in Sumi-e (Japanese Brush Painting) and was honoured with the Sumi-e Master’s Seal by the head sensei of the Nanga School. She later moved to New York City, and was excited by the energy of the New York Art Scene and her signature style of East/West fusion began to blossom and become singularly identifiable. She has exhibited her vibrant and exquisite masterpieces all over the world, and has enjoyed major international success as an artist for over 30 years.