About the Artist

I spent much of my life in the upper Midwest, until leaving for the Caribbean in 1999. The colors and light in the Caribbean were inspiring, as were the changes in culture and lifestyle. My interest in capturing some of this magic blossomed, and my work was well received during my years living on St. Croix.

In early 2011 I returned to the mainland, settling in Sarasota on Florida’s west coast. I have learned that each place has its own colors, light and subjects of interest — and its own kind of magic to be found. Florida is no exception.

I believe things are sometimes different than they first appear, and that perceptions often change depending on context. Being mindful of shifting perceptions can open one to the possibilities for alternative meanings, and for beauty, mystery and wonder in everyday life. This is the common thread that runs through my work.

Mindfulness and wonder may be an antidote to the materialism and self-centeredness that seems to haunt our culture. And as Rachel Carson wrote, “The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction…” Let us hope. There is destruction enough.

Please scroll back in time through the posts here to see some of my work and my thoughts about it.

Thanks for visiting!
Donald Diddams