Vistas: Don Scott Macdonald
Following his remarkable debut exhibition Between Earth and Ether in 2021, Don Scott Macdonald has created 11 new paintings he calls “Vistas.” These new works delve deeper into his artistic exploration of nature, self-discovery, and the universal yearning for human connection. Drawing inspiration from the vast landscapes of Colorado and the enigmatic mysteries of the cosmos, Macdonald's artworks exist within a unique realm that quietly oscillates between serenity and dynamism. In his own words, "I'm intrigued by the poetic interplay of contrasts - the dance between stillness and motion, abstraction and representation. These paintings encapsulate our essence and our encounters with nature - a fragile equilibrium of beauty, enigma, shadows, and optimism."
Don Scott Macdonald's creative journey has been significantly influenced by his pursuit of human connection, molded by a personal experience that has left an indelible mark on both his life and his artistry. Having previously worked as a professional musician in Los Angeles, Macdonald experienced a tragic loss of hearing, which has imparted a distinct perspective on life and tranquility. His artworks resonate with the absence of distractions and a newfound intimacy with silence.
Incorporating a multiplicity of influences ranging from the marvels of nature to the realms of music, science, and the intricacies of relationships, Macdonald's paintings transcend the confines of reality. Rather than portraying specific locations, his paintings are an amalgamation of memories, imagination, and experiences, evoking sensations that are both familiar and profound. His creative process involves pencil sketches enriched with color annotations, which gradually evolve into meticulously painted compositions. He uses the sfumato technique to create a soft, smoky focus for the artworks. Employing sable brushes, oils, and alkyd, Macdonald fastidiously applies 15 to 30 layers of delicate glazes onto the canvas, resulting in a seamless gradient where motion harmonizes with tranquility, representation merges with abstraction, and simplicity mingles with complexity. This dynamic fusion of contrasts invites contemplation and introspection that transcends the physical boundaries of the canvas, inviting us to explore vistas that extend far beyond its edges.
