EXTRACTS: Illustrators issue 11 © 2015 The Book Palace (96 pages PAGES in Full edition)

6 at the University of Vermont, intent on pursuing a career in electrical engineering, but was disappointed to discover that there was none of the scientific creativity that he had anticipated. Looking for other modules that he could explore and find satisfaction within, he enrolled on his very first drawing course—receiving his first formal art tuition at the age of 20. The experience proved so rewarding, that the following semester he added painting and art history to his studies. As Donato recounts; “… after a year and a half my art teachers said to me; you should go somewhere else, you work hard, you’re motivated, you should go to an art school where you can be properly challenged . “ So, taking their advice, Donato eventually landed at Syracuse University and committed himself to a BFA in painting. It was here at Syracuse that Donato found and refined his artistic voice. His extra- ABOVE & FACING PAGE: 'The Mechanic'. 22" x 34" oil on panel 2009. This painting features in a DVD that Donato produced to show the process by which he creates his extraordinary art. The DVD is available from his website at: www.donatoart.com