Allisons of Manson | Fine Art Gallery

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Coastal Gold · en plein air study · $175
Original Framed Pastel. Size: 13 x 16"
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About : Donna Van Tuyl

“When the artist is alive in any person, whatever his kind of work may be, he becomes an inventive, searching, daring, self-expressing creature.” The words of Robert Henri ring true nearly 100 years later whether referring to a child prodigy, established artist of 50 years, or those of us who experience the awakening of the “art spirit” later in life.

Donna studied art and photography in college, plus computer science, which led to a technical career for many years. She says photography and drawing were always percolating in the background and she has long admired the work of Rod Weagant, Richard Mckinley and others. In the late 90’s Donna happened to catch a show in Hood River at Columbia Art Gallery where she was captivated by the luminous pastels of Judith Cunningham. Donna and her husband Steve became frequent visitors to the gallery, drawn especially to the pastels, and purchased a piece by Reolla Wild. While vacationing on the Oregon coast, Donna took the plunge, purchased pastel supplies, and ventured forth. Two months later, fate would intercede in Donna’s technical world when her busy, high-stress career came to a screeching halt for a full month layoff. This unexpected hiatus became a life-altering experience for Donna as she plunged into intense pastel painting, discovering her “art spirit”, and finding a medium to express the sense of freedom and respect she has for the natural world.

Donna lives in Goldendale, Washington, a town without stoplights, where she paints full-time focusing on pastels representing real scenes in the Northwest. All her life, Donna has been immersed in the great outdoors. She grew up 20 miles outside of Wenatchee, Washington, a “little skinny girl” empowered by riding her horse in the mountains, or up and down the Columbia River, always enjoying the solitude and learning an appreciation for nature. She now is compelled to paint what she sees and feels; and to express that beauty. Donna prefers to work “en plein air”, getting a high from being in the moment, in tune with nature. So part of her secret is her sense of purpose, and her love of the land.

Donna Van Tuyl in her studio.

Artist Statement : Donna Van Tuyl

"I believe in reading and continuous study to learn and grow as an artist, in addition to hands-on experience. I apply a practical approach: defining development as incremental and painting every day. I attend workshops taught by artists whose work I admire including Rod Weagant, Richard McKinley, and Albert Handell.

Art is teaching me self-discovery. I continually strive to seek quality and my own authentic composition.

I have had several featured artist exhibitions in Oregon and Washington. I am a member of the Northwest Pastel Society and I am currently represented at The Dalles Art Center, Columbia Art Gallery in Hood River, Silver Star Gallery in Chelan, WA and Allison’s of Manson in Manson, WA."

Donna frequently posts her latest work for viewing on her website: www.donnavantuyl.com.