An exhibition currently on display at the Kapunda Community Gallery has been described as a “wonderful tribute” to one the region’s most talented artists, Ms Maxine Donald.
The exhibition showcases decades of artwork drawn and painted by Ms Donald, whose interest in art goes back to the late 1960’s when she undertook formal studies at the South Australian School of Art and at Western Teachers College and in 1967, she qualified as an art teacher.
Member for Light, Mr Tony said he first met Maxine when she was a member of the Gawler Art Society when he was Mayor of Gawler.
Mr Piccolo said he has admired Maxine’s works of beautiful landscapes where she uses water colours to great effect.
“Her recent work of the various buildings around Kapunda, do a wonderful job in presenting the town’s heritage,” said Mr Piccolo.
“These recent works are an important collection of the town’s built from back to when it was first established.”
“Maxine has a very understated style of drawing and painting that allows the viewer to write their own story about the subject matter.”
Ms Donald taught art in many schools across South Australia, and she also lived and worked in Europe in the early ‘70’s.
Ms Donald said that in 1971 “while living and working overseas she completed several commissioned works in Holland and England, primarily of heritage farmhouses and family homes.”
“On my return to Adelaide I started to get serious about my artwork and joined the Gawler Art Society in 2000, becoming a committee member and Chairperson in 2002/03.” said Ms Donald.
Since 2005 Ms Donald has been active in the Kapunda Community Gallery, including a stint as its Chairperson, Facilitator of the Monday Art Group, and the Art Co-ordinator of the Kapunda-Kidman (bi-annual) Rotary Art Show from 2007-2019.
Ms Donald has successfully exhibited her work in numerous Art Shows across the State.
Mr Piccolo said that Maxine is currently facilitating two weekly low-cost art classes for the community in Kapunda and continues to attend workshops with professional artists to further her interest and expertise.
“Maxine is very keen to support and motivate emerging new artists,” said Mr Piccolo.
“Maxine’s work can be seen in collections across the world, including England, Holland, the United States, Hong Kong, and New Zealand.”
“My art is about things, places, and people that evoke feelings of the moment, or an era,” said Ms Donald.
“This exhibition is a wonderful tribute to a life dedicated to her art, and her willingness to share it with others,” said Mr Piccolo.
Mr Piccolo highly recommends that people who are interested in not only art but also history, should visit the exhibition that is open until 27th October at the Kapunda Community Gallery, in the main street of Kapunda.
More information can be found on the Gallery’s website at www.kapundagallery.com