Donna Brown lives on a lake in the Frontenac Arch Biosphere north of Kingston, Ontario, where she paints in her large studio.
Her current focus (2022) is to paint abstracted flowers, landscapes, and still life, using layers of transparent and opaque paints. Her love of snorkelling has directed her to paint some underwater scenes as well.
Recently, she has been inspired by the natural world, walking every day in the woods. Daily exercise and meditation also greatly contribute to her vision and to the images she creates. Her recent works have been described as geological, glacial, celestial, serene, ethereal, powerful and spiritual. Currently, they are becoming more colourful, playful and whimsical. Her new emphasis is on creating happiness and joy, as she becomes more joyful herself. She hopes all of her works share how she sees both her inner and outer worlds with the viewer - both worlds wonderful and magical places.
Donna Brown has painted since the 1970s but began her full-time career over 25 years ago when she moved to Kingston. Contemporary portraits and oil paints were her favourites at that time. Then, for many years, she used acrylic paint, enjoying the product for its speed of drying and flexibility for changes. painting on gold leaf paper and rice paper, using Japanese mineral paints, Sumi ink, acrylic, or oil and cold wax and occasional iPad work became a part of her repertoire. She feels extremely fortunate to be able to paint whatever inspires her at the present time, using whatever materials seem appropriate
She finds the variety of artist materials and infinite ways to use them fascinating, which keeps the creative process challenging and interesting.
Donna believes that painting often expresses that which cannot be conveyed through words. She hopes to communicate and share her vision and passion with the viewer.