Wendy Donahoe
United States
I have been drawing all my life. Graphite, carbon pencil, charcoal, and colored pencil are my chosen mediums; I work on paper and illustration board, and opaque drafting film, as well as other supports such as finely sanded gessoed boards. I also employ the use of acrylic paint when working on drafting film, covering the reverse side in solid fields of color, and using it for finishing highlights to the colored pencil drawing.
Although my work is rendered in a style often described as photo realistic, so as not to burden the viewer with distractions and allow for a clearer path to contemplation and personal meaning, backgrounds are minimal. The fine gradations which transition from paper white highlights to deep shadow grays for a blended resolution of tones defines my signature style.
I earned a bachelor of fine arts degree in 1978 from the University of Delaware under such realist artists as Steve Tanis and Charles Rowe. I went on to receive graduate level instruction at George Washington University from renowned artists Scip Barnhart and William Woodward.
As a long standing member, I enjoy exhibiting my work at the Alexandria Art League in The Torpedo Factory Art Center in Virginia, as well I've had my work exhibited at The Target Gallery, The Principle Gallery, Charleston, The MFA Circle Gallery, Fraser Gallery, and The Affordable Art Fair, NYC. The Art Renewal Center has selected my work as a finalist in the Drawing category of the International Salon, and an Honorable Mention in 2014 for my drawing, "Avery at the Window". I showcase my art on my website and am a member of The International Guild of Realism. I maintain studios at my homes in Alexandria, Virginia and Gerrardstown, West Virginia.
Observing people going about their everyday lives, on city streets, in shops, gazing at artwork in galleries and museums, recollections of family and friends, ... memory, all serve as inspiration for my work.
Wendy Jones Donahoe
* This statement has been provided directly by the artist in association to their 16th International ARC Salon entries. This content has not been edited for typos or grammatical errors and has not been vetted for accuracy.
