Anna Donahue

A FEW THINGS ABOUT THE ARTIST

1. What do you do when you’re not making art? (Day job etc...).

My day job is working as a commissioned artist so I often dream and think about the art that I want to make. My commissioned work requires skill but I don’t always get to create whatever I want.

2. Why do you make art?

I am inspired to share my vision of what is important and beautiful. When creating art, the most exciting experience is the moment when I know that my vision has become reality.

3. What inspires you?

Growing up in North Dakota was a gift because even though I was stranded out in the middle of a sweeping prairie I learned to appreciate the value of simple yet very grand things; clouds that spread from horizon to horizon, oceans of waving wheat, blowing snow that drifts forever, a sky full of northern lights, and prairie roses lining miles of railroad track. Beauty seemed scarce with the severe landscape and harsh lifestyle for anyone who dared to eke out a living there. But the simple life taught me three things: there is beauty in everything, everything is important, and I can share my vision of important beautiful things.

4. What/who are your influences?

I love expressionism because it is representational but also emotional and colorful.

5. If you could meet anyone dead or alive who would it be?

My ancestor, Alf Lundeby (1870-1961), is a regional Norwegian painter who has his work in the National Gallery in Oslo, Norway. It would be interesting to meet him and hear about his travels and his visits with Matisse.