Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna Dugone.
Hi Donna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In many ways, I grew up in an idyllic home with hard-working and loving parents who wanted their children to succeed in life. I don’t know exactly “when”- but somewhere along the way, success translated in my own mind to overdrive, performance and measurable achievement, leaving little room for self- expression, creativity, art, or complex emotions.
Having a rich musical background—Playing the piano and working with musicians since a young age—I found a valuable outlet for personal growth and connection. This was a lifeline for me for several decades! Yet, something was still missing. There wasn’t a place to pursue a deeper understanding of myself or space for vulnerable, authentic community. I also longed for the opportunity to hear other women’s unfiltered stories.
When life‘s hardships piled up bigger and bigger, I felt buried under an invisible weight of shame and disappointment. I didn’t feel like a shiny success. Battling breast cancer, and going through a painful divorce made me feel like a failure. Like so many others, nearing rock bottom was actually my entry point into the artistic world. I turned towards Art for an emotional escape and the freedom to express myself without judgment. I began journaling—Writing things that I had never spoken before—and then covering some of my words with painting. I had never drawn a stick figure or even doodled much before this. Words and emotions began flowing freely, initiating deep healing and mental wellness.
As I began to develop my skill, I moved from journals to large paintings, I honed my own particular method of ink with water to reveal a hidden kaleidoscope of color. But, through every work of art, I still remained true to my roots, journaling and healing with my writing before covering it with Art.
As the years went by, I began to feel the effects of the strange catharsis that was painting over my trauma. The question was sparked through people who would purchase the art. What was just visible behind the painted women’s faces? This curiosity became a catalyst when I painted the faces of women, angels, cities, and hearts. My desire was to share the stories behind the unique faces of each woman and landscape painted. Diverse looks, experiences and stories of healing bled through each painting. Now the mysterious lives of all these women are brought to the surface to be healed, celebrated and instill hope for a brighter future.
I recently fully entered back into art journaling with my latest journal, “Unbound” published in Stampington’s Art Journaling magazine. The art journaling chronicles the journey of myself and my family as we navigated the July 4 and 5th Texas flood that resulted in devastation on our property and our community located in the Texas Hill Country on Big Sandy Creek.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest challenge was learning about art supplies and how they work, since my background is music and I had no knowledge of technique, supplies and anything “Art” besides appreciating other artists and studying them.
I have always been in demand as a musician. Entering the art world at an older age has in and of itself been a challenge. I am known as a musician…not an artist. So putting myself in a new arena has been an interesting journey.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
For years, my creative outlet was writing music and poetry. I have continued to use my poetry and journaling in my art. I will, at times, also compose music to accompany an art series.
I was involved in a gallery and showing art in various arenas. Lately, I have returned to submitting my art journals for publication and selling online.
I taught private piano, voice and composing for years. I am now using my teaching skills, along with my friend Abby Pearson, to teach art and journal making once a month as well as hold retreats on the property where I reside, “The Colley Ranch”.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My greatest mentors, when I first started, were the publications by Stampington. I found the book, “True Colors” by them. I read every page and studied art journaling. It gave me courage to begin my art journey.
At that same time, I began exchanging art with other artists and making friends with those who had been in the art field all their life. Their input has been invaluable.
I now mentor and teach classes and retreats. I offer scholarships who don’t have the funds to pay. Giving back and teaching people skills for mental health is my goal. .
Pricing:
- $75-$1,500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://WildfireArtisans.com
- Instagram: donna_dugone
- Facebook: Donna Dugone
