Daniel Fortuño is a Washington, D.C.-based designer and artist specializing in scenic design for plays, musicals, opera, live events, exhibitions, and installations. He is currently a Junior at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, pursuing a BFA in Design & Production with a concentration in Scene Design.
Daniel’s work explores sophistication, elegance, glamour, and strong visual storytelling. He approaches each project with an intention and purpose, aiming to create environments that resonate emotionally and intellectually. His professional work experience includes roles at organizations such as Wolf Trap, where he worked as a scenic painter, and Broadway Bound, where he served as both a scenic designer and a teaching artist.
Inspired by nature, architecture, fine art, and his lived experiences, Daniel believes that design is not only meant to support a story but to become a story in itself. His goal is to create spaces that spark connection, awaken imagination, and leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Daniel discovered his passion for pursuing a career in the entertainment industry in high school, bringing with him a lifelong talent for fine art. He began as a charge artist and then, through his journey, discovered scenic design.
In 2023, he was awarded the Thespy Award for Top Scenic Design at the International Thespian Festival for his set design of Big Fish, following his win at the Virginia Thespian Festival.