Barbara Donnon is the artist of the month at The Foundry in Denton, MD. Her medium is oil painting. Article contributed by Caroline County Council of Arts
I was born in Philadelphia, Pa., but have lived in Maryland for over 30 years. The beauty of the Eastern Shore inspires me to try and put on canvas that which I see all around me.
I took art as a major in high school. Family, friends and art instructors encouraged my talent. I started oil painting at the YMCA in Philadelphia with a volunteer retired army sergeant who offered instructions and good advice. The cost was free. When I moved to Maryland I found that the Dept. Of Parks and Recreation offered classes with professionals and joined right in. I have taken classes with Joyce Zeigler and Bobby Seager, and I was part of Tuesday evening art classes with Joyce for over 20 years.
I am a house counselor for the Benedictine OCP program and work 4pm to midnight at a Benedictine OCP home – I paint after my clients have gone to bed for the evening and my chores are finished. I love painting animals and people, but do not offer portraits of people. I try and stay with animal portraits or landscapes where I can insert some type of “critter.” I paint people in scenes where they tell a story as part of the painting.
I paint what I enjoy but try new challenges to see how successful I can be. Painting with, and attending local art groups, allow important critiques to help me grow as an artist. I take classes offered locally and I exhibit locally at most venues who offer to show my work, including The Foundry.
I find that no matter how long I try to master the art, there is always something, some event or some person who can teach me something new. It is a continuous learning experience. My easel is always up and my palette is always out, ready to capture the moment.
When I’m not painting, I love to stay in touch with family and friends, go fishing with my husband and take part in activities offered by the local communities.
