SAAC is proud to present “Things Remembered,” a solo exhibition featuring the evocative watercolor paintings of Hot Springs artist Donna Twyford. On display in the Merkle Gallery from October 21 to November 22, 2024, this exhibit will showcase a nostalgic collection of artworks that delve deeply into the themes of memory and longing, capturing people, places, and cherished objects that resonate with the heart. The exhibition’s opening reception will take place on Tuesday, October 29, from 5:30pm to 7:00pm.
Donna Twyford, who embarked on her artistic journey in 2013 after a decade of motherhood and entrepreneurship, has rapidly made a name for herself in the art community. With no formal training, Twyford was drawn to the medium of watercolor and has committed herself to daily practice for over ten years. She has participated in numerous juried competitions, earning accolades that highlight her growing prominence as an artist, including a recent honorable mention at the 2024 Women in Watercolor International Competition and selection for publication in “Splash 25 – The Best in Watercolor.”
Twyford reflects on the process of creating art by stating, “Being able to surrender to what is happening on the paper, to be the guide and not the manipulator, is the biggest challenge for me. I love detail…and struggle with removing unnecessary elements. Realism is a serious turnoff for many artists and critics, but for me it’s more about examining every crucial part; of seeing small things most glance over and ignore, learning to see art where others do not.”
“Things Remembered” will feature a significant body of work that invites viewers to explore the subtle narratives woven into each piece. Twyford’s dedication to detail and her unique perspective on watercolor as a versatile medium promise to deliver an exhibition that is both visually striking and deeply introspective.
In addition to her exhibition, Twyford serves as an artist and partner at the Art Group Gallery in Little Rock, where she continues to inspire and collaborate with fellow artists. Her artwork has consistently been recognized in prestigious exhibitions, including multiple awards at the Mid-Southern Watercolorists Annual Juried Exhibition, where she earned the President’s Award in 2023 and the Gold Award in 2019.
SAAC galleries, located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas, is free and open to the public Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm. For more information or the schedule an appointment, call the South Arkansas Arts Center at 870-862-5474.