In
the sharp focus of a photorealist, Doni Kendig captures
the nobility and spirit of her living subjects in their
natural environment. The impact of her work, with its uncanny
fidelity to reality, is immediate upon the viewer. We instinctively
respond to the tensed beauty of a big cat, consumed by its
vigilant stare. The spread of an eagle's wings in mid-flight
inspires awe, while the potential menace in a wolf packs,
gathering glare suggests caution.
A world
traveler, Doni avidly records natural phenomena with a camera.
Studies of layered clouds over New Zealand, wave patterns
mid-ocean, the wildlife on the vast plains of Africa, and
field impressions of birds are documented by her discerning
eye. The photographic studies build a collective lexicon
ready for consideration in future work. She has a deeply
felt admiration for nature and is devoted to communicating
its multitude of ever changing atmospheric conditions and
attitudes.
As
a child, she experienced Nebraska's seasonal changes and
the beauty of its harsh winters. A move to Arizona started
an ongoing love affair with the desert. The enduring mystique
of its isolation and dramatic sunsets were painted with
splellbinding verity to place and time. A final move to
California brought about a recognition of not only the ocean's
power and dynamics, but also its ephemeral quality of dancing
light on water's surface.
Doni
Kendig's paintings
resonate with depth, a
highly persuasive feeling for texture, and solidity
of mass. Basically self- taught, she has an
inherently deep understanding of all aspects of nature.
Whether it be the delicate curve of a feather, the suggested
weight of a rock, or the graceful poise of a leopard, each
is infused with perfect reality. We are readily convinced
of their rightful place on earth. Gazing at the changing
shades of gold to deep purple on the slopes of "Desert
Spectacular"
she notes " . . . you feel the insignificance of man,
except as a threat."
Doni
Kendig has developed
a technique of applying an undercoating of acrylic to her
canvas. This is overpainted with oils, which builds transparency
and richness in light quality. Finally, coats of varnish
are added. Each step measurably adds to an incredible sensation
of depth.
A
painter who has had a great influence on her work is Robert
Bateman, the consummate wildlife artist and conservationist.
Doni considers the aspect of conservation a valid concern,
fearing that our earth may continue on a downward spiral
of further degeneration. Contemplating her own art, she
suggests that future generations might respond, "This
is how it was in the 90's when these animals still existed
and you could just drive out and see them." She adds,
"Our world has become so complicated and urbanized
that we fail to see, or do not take the time to see, that
there is still beauty all around us".
It
is a message well worth remembering and one Doni Kendig
brings so aptly to life in her art. We are grateful to vicariously
share her joy and vision of the natural beauty surrounding
us.
![[Doni Kendig]](KendigBW.jpg)
