ARTS & CULTURE

For short hauls, she opts for simplicity, carrying essentials like a clipboard, paper towels, and her trusty Derwent Ink set, which offers a remarkable layering ability. Occasionally, she'll switch to her Koi kit for its brighter colours, especially suitable for certain watercolour techniques. However, for longer journeys, she relies on her "mother ship" carry-all a repurposed sewing basket meticulously organized with compartments for everything from graphite pencils and erasers to an extensive selection of watercolour pencils and paint tubes. With her arsenal of tools neatly packed and ready to go, she ensures that she's always equipped to bring her artistic vision to life, no matter where her adventures take her.

Spending time with Donna served as a poignant reminder of the significance of carving out moments for creative pursuits be it painting, drawing, making music, or any other form of self-expression that fuels our creativity. Donna's gentle encouragement prompts us to find inspiration in the minutiae of everyday existence the steam rising from a morning coffee cup, the playful dance of robins on the back porch, or the fleeting beauty of butterflies fluttering by. I hope she has inspired you as well.

To learn more about local artist and author, Donna Matthews, visit her website: wwwdelizdoodles com

If you know of a local artist that would like to be featured, please reach out to:

Taren White at the Taren White Gallery, 32A Dundas St. W., Paris, Ontario **New Location** Online at www.tarenwhitegallery.com and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarenwhitegallery/