Paul Donaldson has traveled extensively in Mexico and Central America, observing, photographing and preparing studies that will be the subject matter of his paintings and drawings.  His unique style captures the dazzling light, the vibrant colors, and the palpable atmosphere of the region.  Donaldson focuses on the humanness of his subjects, portrayed in everyday moments and often seemingly lost in their own thoughts.  Perhaps it is really the lonely path of an artist that Donaldson conveys through his subjects, thoughtfully capturing a sense of isolation and struggle, similar to what he experiences in his own studio laboring over these remarkable works.

Donaldson writes of his work: “I do not understand my painting process. I know it requires my full commitment of energy. I choose the subjects (photos) because they reveal the clearest rendition of form and have true human qualities. 

“I live the paintings and dream them and each morning wake up with a new dreamed solution which I try that day. There is no plan for them, they grow and change by themselves. At some point they have become surrogates for the original source, or not!”

Paul Donaldson received a B.A. and M.F.A. from California State University, Long Beach. 

For further information, please contact:  Jeff Gambill, Director (310) 829-0345.