Dona Reed creates limited-edition, hand-pulled relief prints as well as vessels and lamps made from gourds. She uses both two- and three-dimensional media to express her unique artwork based on simplified lines and shapes, repetitive patterns and careful use of negative space.
Dona started making prints in 1972 while an art student in college, and working with gourds in 1995. As an art student, art teacher and artist she’s been fortunate to explore a wide range of media. But over the years, Dona keeps returning to prints and gourds as the best ways to express her designs in both two- and three-dimensions. Her art can then grace both the walls and tables of discerning art lovers.

Due to her love of the outdoors her designs are deeply influenced by nature, particularly in the Pacific Northwest where she lives. She uses strong lines and graphic shapes to create a simplified representation of natural subjects. She also uses repetitive patterns, negative space and texture to create flowing movement and capture the subject’s essence. Most of her pieces are monochromatic with touches of color that are applied by hand.

To create her relief prints, she first develops a design on paper, from initial sketches to final drawing. She transfers the finished drawing in reverse onto a block of wood or linoleum, then carve away the wood or linoleum that will make the print’s “white space”. She then inks the remaining, or raised, portion of the carved block, and transfer the ink to rice paper using a press or by hand. In some designs, she applies a touch of color by hand.

To create her gourd pieces, Dona first adapts her design to match the gourd’s natural shape. The lines of that design are then burned into the gourd’s surface and colors are applied with dyes, inks and/or paints. Some gourds are embellished, and sculptural effects are created by cutting the negative space out of the gourd, and painting the interior black.

Dona’s work can be found in galleries and homes throughout the country. She also teaches classes in creativity, print-making and working with gourds in Friday Harbor, WA.