I create paintings that are inspired by my observation of light on local plants, garden flowers, fruit and shells. My inspiration often comes from viewing plants in my home garden or on my daily walk in my neighborhood. I compose natural forms together for their shape, color and texture from direct observation and my imagination. In my recent series of flower stems in a vase I love painting the contrast of light and form in and outside the transparent glass. I want to interpret the beauty I see in natural forms with a goal to provide my viewers with a moment of quiet reflection.
My painting process begins with an underpainting that defines a composition of light and shadow. With close observation I add layers of color to build texture and detail. My paintings are created with acrylic paint on panel.
I retired from a full time career in art education to dedicate more time to painting but I still enjoy teaching painting workshops for adults. My work is included in public and private collections including the Worcester Art Museum, Boston Public Library, Fidelity Investments and Cambridge Savings Bank. My paintings have been included in recent exhibitions at ConcordArt, Nahcotta, South Shore Art Center and Storefront Art Projects.
Please go to nahcotta.com/collections/donna-calleja or edrummdesigns.com to view available paintings and prints
Contact me at callejart@gmail.com with questions about my paintings or workshops.