joyful paintings by Donna Buchan
painting is a sharing of joy.
It's my belief that painting what we see isn't enough - a scene
doesn't include me (or you) until we freely express emotion about
our surroundings. . . only then are we no longer observers upon
the world of nature, but suddenly - completely - participants.

Look closely, and you can see me in there. I'm tugging at the
colours and urging them to be brighter. . . holding the distance
back, feeling the harmony.

I encourage the tools - the palette, the brushes, and my heart -
to give me more. But most of all, I love to tease the light until we
are quite sure of its presence. . .
In 1991, I traded a city career in graphic
design for a back yard in Algonquin Park.
Painting here is my greatest pleasure,
along with sharing the joy of this experience.
donna buchan painting
muskoka chair
painting on location -
Oxtongue Rapids,
near Algonquin Park,
October 2005  
photo by Larry Wright
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My arts experience spans over thirty years, beginning with classical and vocational art training, and including
Graphics Design education from Sheridan College, Oakville. While acquiring fifteen years’ work experience in
graphic design as Assistant Art Director and Art Director in retail advertising and promotions, I remained active
producing freelance and commissioned work in fine art.

In addition to being very active in the local arts community as a Director (2000 to 2003, 2007 to 2008, 2009 -
2011) of the
Huntsville Art Society, and Founding member and past Director (2002 - 2006) of the Arts Council
Of Muskoka, I frequently participate in regional shows and exhibitions, and have donated many hours creating
hand-painted Muskoka chairs for the 2003 London Chair-ity Auction, and the Arts Council of Muskoka's 2002,
2003 and 2005 Annual Muskoka Chair Event raffle.

Most recently my outdoor mural was chosen as first to launch Bell Canada’s community project to beautify their
“brown boxes”. I was also chosen as one of seven artists in 2009 to paint a permanent mural in Huntsville's
Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery.

I provide various
workshops in understanding acrylics, acrylic mediums, and colour, via the Tri-Art Education
Program.

From my home-based studio, I create a variety of work in varied media, mostly acrylics. As my artistic style
evolves, I find myself experimenting more extensively with acrylic paints, mediums and grounds, recently
expanding into mixed media. One of my works was presented with the Award of Excellence in Acrylics at
Muskoka Arts and Crafts 29th Annual Spring Members’ Show, April 2006. I am a regular participant in various
art shows throughout the year, and exhibit my work in several Muskoka galleries as well as at Whetung Ojibwa
Centre near Peterborough, Ontario.