Donna Heil
May 2024’s Featured Artist
Artist Bio:
Donna Heil’s art takes inspiration from her journey to her current residence in Charlotte, NC. She collected images and recreated memories from past adventures, painting scenes of the beautiful landscapes she witnessed. Her art reflects a life of travel, life lessons learned, and a continuing journey ahead.
Artist Statement:
“It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” Henry David Thoreau
I am a seeker of beauty, color & truth. I am currently painting with oil and loving the whole complex process, from the underlayer of transparent color to the bold simple brushstrokes that define shapes, letting viewers complete the painting in their own minds, while feeling a sense of joy from the vibrant color palette.
Born and raised in Louisville KY, I was inspired at a young age by my father’s love of art and the written word. Saturday mornings were spent doing mini gallery crawls where he exposed me to all of his favorite artists and taught me how to “see” what they were saying.
His collections of art, books and music filled our home.
My mother and maternal grandmother showed me the art of doing, through gardening, painting, sewing and entertaining. Filling the house with color & beauty often brought inside from the garden.
My current home is Charlotte NC. I love this city & love to be inspired by the beauty it has to offer. NY, Chicago, London, Paris & Hong Kong, inspire me with their rich art, architecture & culture. My greatest inspiration comes from photos I take with my iPhone in & around Charlotte. Nothing better than putting the top down on our red convertible & heading to any nearby small town, to discover a farm to table restaurant, a new local winery, or a secret garden. The Greenway paths that weave throughout the city are a constant companion and inspiration. I paint local!
My spiritual journey has led me to the knowing that sharing my art is a passion I must pursue. I hope that my art brings more color, light & joy into your space & your life.
Thank you for letting me share my love of art with you. Donna W Heil