Trump

Trump

Illustration By Donna Massa     2018

Trump The 45th President of the United States.  Served one term and in those four years the country was divided between two parties those that wanted equality & justice, and those who wanted to end our Democracy as we know it.  

There were times during his administration when many artists created different drawings and illustrations of Trump, somehow he always seemed to be an easy target.  I was one of these artists who wanted to express how I felt about him as a man not as our President, that would have been a whole other series of storyboard illustrations.

This pen & Ink/charcoal line drawing speaks for itself there is no need for a description.  It was just one of those urges I had to express myself through the world of illustration…

Graphic Design, Title and Lettering by musician Jeff Hayford

 

Tribute to Tom Petty

Learning To Fly

Illustration/Rendering  Poster Art.  2018

Thomas Earl Petty born October 20, 1950 was from Gainesville, FL.  Tom was an American singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and actor.  His music was his life and he was loved and respected among his fellow musicians as the dynamic frontman for The Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Band formed in 1976.  In his earlier years he led the band Medcrutch, and later on in his career in the 1980’s he was a member of the supergroup the Traveling Wilburys.

Bob Dylan tells Rolling Stones “I thought the world of Tom.  He was a great performer, full of the light, a friend, and I’ll never forget him…”

In an interview with Rolling Stones Tom said, “although this might be my last tour around the country it’s not my intention to quit playing.  I need something to do, or I tend to be a nuisance around the house.”

The majority of Petty’s albums have been certified either gold or platinum.  In 2002 Tom Petty was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

Tom Petty’s hit songs have defined rock since the 70’s of which he never stopped writing music.  His devoted fans adored him and his band all over the world.  In 2006 in an interview with Esquire he defines himself in this way quote, “What’s changed these days is that the man who approaches me on the street is more of less thanking me for a body of work - the soundtrack to his life, a lot of them say.  And that’s a wonderful feeling.  It’s all an artist can ask…”

Gone too soon… 

Thank you Tom for your incredible contribution to humanity…

A4H Arts4Humanity (For The Benefit of All)

Rendering by illustrator Donna Massa

Graphic Design & Lettering by musician Jeff Hayford

 

OBAMA POSTER 2012

MONEY, GREED & POWER

Poster Illustration By Donna Massa  2012

In 2012 as part of the Obama “A Call to Artists Project,” and a member of the Democratic National Campaign I participated in this artistic competition.  An invitation was sent out to me asking to join all artists nationally to come up with a poster to be used in President Obama’s new campaign project.  We were given the details to apply, dates, size, when the posters were to be submitted for review and the different topics to choose from.  I chose the topic, “Ask Millionaires & Billionaires To Pay Their Fair Share.”  

I wanted the illustration to make a strong statement one that would be taken seriously.  I decided to create three characters one was named Miss Money, the second a traditional feline breed know as a Money cat called Greed,  and third a Mr. Power.  These three characters were partners in crime, and were walking on nice soft green grass when little did they know there was a land mine just in front of them.  Well planted in the ground there was an Obama Logo on the top of the lid.  Miss Money see’s it first and cautions the rest to stop dead in their tracts.  Mr. Power holds up his hand as if to say stop don’t move a muscle!  

The land mind is to symbolize the administrations position on this issue.  In order to have a fair democracy of a united people we should all do our fair share, and nobody should be treated any different or exempt from paying income taxes like everybody else.  

I received a letter thanking me for my contribution.  The letter gave us a URL to see the three runner ups, and the poster that won the competition.  They appreciated my sense of humor, style, technique, concept,  and ability to take on such a controversial issue.  I was content just being a part of this artistic venture along with other artists.  There is one thing you should know about me if you haven’t already noticed, I’m not afraid to speak, support or honor the truth, it is my belief system.  I’m proud to be an Italian American, as well as my country and the leaders who have throughout history tried to do their best for the American people and keeping us safe.  Running a country was and will never be an easy job to fulfill!  The only regret I have is unfortunately this poster’s title still applies today in 2021/22…🇱🇷

BiPolar Disorder

   

Bipolar Disorder & Schizophrenia

Medical Illustration By Donna Massa   2010

Bipolar disorder with Schizophrenia was the diagnosis of my dearest late girlfriend Joan.  Our friendship spanned over decades of thirty-five years.  I was her only close girlfriend who unconditionally accepted her illnesses when so many others could not,  

Joan was partially diagnosed at age fifteen as Manic with suicidal tendencies.  It wasn’t until much later did they determine the real diagnosis as Bipolar Disorder.  The medications she was asked to take were a blend of psychotic drugs to control high anxiety and depression.  If anyone has dealt with this type of disorder one knows the individual experiences dualities of extreme highs and lows with mood swings.  The highs are euphoric with intense bouts of excitement and happiness like adrenaline bubbling through their veins however, the down side are the very lows by which the individual sinks to a level of paranoia, panic, hysteria, physically destructive, disoriented, hallucinogenic, introverted or extroverted thoughts of suicide, and deep depression.  In Joans case besides an anti anxiety and depressant she was given the drug Lithium.  Lithium is just one of the drugs offered for the control of Bipolar Disorder however with it comes numerous side affects that in itself are difficult to live with.  

One of the first issues that I noticed with my Joan was her inability to stay on the medications given.  She loved those highs and wanted to be in that state of mind all the time!  Also, after being on the medication for awhile this brings a sense of calmness and balance that tricks the brain into thinking I’m ok, I’m doing well and better each day!  In turn they make the sudden decision to come off the meds.  Unfortunately the symptoms slowly return and each time this happens it sets them back ten fold and labeled high risk. This up and down roller coaster ride of on and off the meds can go on for years.  In Joans case this is what happened and I sensed every time she was doing it!  She would like to call me and talk for hours and the first thing you never do is make them feel they are a burden and you don’t have time for them.  The best thing to do is just listen and interject when you can, never interrupt as they are quick to anger.  

Joan was a classically trained ballet dancer and studied at Boston Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA.  She also was a poet, a model, intuitive, clairvoyant, loved to write and enjoyed many genre’s of music.  She was absolutely beautiful, with long thick golden blond hair, green eyes, perfect figure and stood 5’8” tall.  There wasn’t a place we could go in our teens, twenty’s and thirty’s when Joan was the focal point of attention.  However, Joan did not care to be the center of attraction, she was not flirtatious, and desired to be left alone she handled herself well with diplomacy like a lady.  

As Joan got older living on the Lithium took its toll on her and she experienced weight gain, dry skin, problems with her teeth, skin boils, and a feeling of being lethargic and inactive.  She accepted taking her medications and went in for bi-annual checkups to measure her Lithium levels.  I would go and visit her as her desire to go out in public became an effort and she was extremely self conscious of her body.  

I asked my Joan one time what it was like living with these disorders and she said “it’s like pistons in an engine.  And all the pistons but one stops firing up causing confusion and everything after that just falls apart.”

I sort of knew what she was describing, however as the on looker watching these disorders slowly take her away from me I intrinsically sensed her brain and thought patterns were never normal.  She didn’t understand any other way to think, she was so young when these symptoms started surfacing.  When she was diagnosed by three different doctors during her life she would reject the diagnosis and state they don’t really know anything, and they don’t understand me.  She would see a therapist for only so long and grow tired of the whole process.

Joans sudden and tragic passing occurred in the month of September 2010.  I could not reach her for a few days thinking she was either resting or out for a walk, she did not have an answering service, cell phone or a computer.  She did have a telephone and a TV from which she watched her daily soap operas, and classic films without fail.  If I had to compare her to a classic Hollywood actress I would say Veronica Lake.  If I had to compare her to any other person I could not.  Joan was a unique artistic woman who came into this world under adverse circumstances, completely misunderstood.  I loved her with all my heart and when she unexpectedly left this world she took a piece of my soul with her.  I will never forget this angel who gave so much unconditional love to those she loved.  Her loyality and devotion was a sisterly love I had never experienced even though I had a sister.  She never gossiped or talked behind another persons back, she always saw two sides of the story, extremely forgiving, and never sat in judgement.  

There is no need to describe this illustration it speaks for itself.  Those of you who know someone dear to you who suffers with mental illnesses understands what I’m conveying in this illustration and for those who don’t just use your imagination… 💕

In Memory of my Joan.  November 10, 1953 - September 10, 2010

A Solar Chart IC

 

A Solar Chart  Living with IC

Medical Illustration By Donna Massa  2011

IC stands for Interstitial Cystitis a chronic bladder disorder.  When being diagnosed with IC the test is called a cystoscapy.  This procedure involves the insertion of a thin tube into the urethra with a light and lens for viewing the entire walls of the bladder.  

What is IC?  IC occurs when the bladder’s gag layer of protection around the bladder wall becomes deteriorated allowing the nerve ends to become exposed.  When the bladder starts to fill up with urine the heightened pain and inflammation affects these exposed nerve ends and the bladder’s reaction is urgency, frequency and voiding.  This is a chronic debilitating condition that is incurable, however with proper diet, prescription medication and therapy plan it can be properly managed. 

There are over 35 million women in the United States alone living with IC and it is now detected in men as well.  This is a serious growing problem around the world without any real answers as to what are the causes of this disorder.  One aspect of this disorder that has been determined is it involves some type of emotional trauma connected to the human brain, spinal chord, Central Nervous System and Immune System, setting up a kinetic chain involvement with these four areas of the body.

I studied the Science of Astrology at Mass Art in Boston when I was a teenager.  It was a fascinating subject to learn the Science of Astrology, and it has played an important in my life.  There are two principle readings in astrology and you need the proper books and tools for mathematically calculating and determining a Solar and a Nadar Chart. One of these books is called the Ephemeris.

In this illustration I’ve combined the concept of a Solar chart and living with IC.  When calculating a chart in astrology you start with a wheel.  The wheel is composed of twelve sections called houses, each has a specific meaning relating to ones life.  Around the wheel are the twelve zodiac signs and in the middle is a horizontal line that is called the Midheaven.  Below the midheaven is the first house and this moves counter clockwise round the wheel.  The birth date, time and place is crucial to determining the Nadar chart of a person as to their entire life’s purpose, career, money, home, children, marriage and so much more.  However, in this respect we are working with a Solar chart.  The sign that starts at the Midheaven of a Solar Chart is Aries and the rest of the eleven signs will follow counter clockwise around the wheel.  If it was a Nadar Chart the midheaven would be calculated using Greenwich, England’s time zone by recording the exact time of birth, date and place. 

Each of the sections in the wheel represent what it’s like living with IC /Interstitial Cystitis.  From the physical symptoms, the emotional anxiety, stress and worry to a mental state of anguish, isolation and mild depression.  This disorder is all encompassing and once diagnosed your world changes forever.  

Shown in these twelve sections as we go around the wheel are the options one is given, diet alkaline vs acidity, water over wine, various therapy’s and treatments for are on the wheel to healing.

Looking outside the wheel we see various astrological symbols, the Astrological nature of the sign and the Planets that rule them.  This is symbolic reality representing the number of ways and areas of our life that are directly affected living with this debilitating disorder.  

There is no known cure for IC at this time however, they have made great stride in early detection, proper hygiene, and preventative measures that a patient can take.  The best possible scenario is to have an excellent specialist who totally understands IC, and chronic pelvic and sexual pain disorders.  A treatment plan designed specifically for their individual needs, and various Benzodiazepine medications that help restore balance, aligning strong mental health with emotional stability. All of these ingredients help patients live fairly normal and productive lives…💜

Dr. Robert Echenberg

theechenberginstitute.com 

Producer/Director Donna Massa https://youtu.be/wy0LhIKVFog

A4H(TM) illustration

A4H “Arts4HumanityTM”

Illustration By Donna Massa.  2018

Arts4Humanity is a not-for- social enterprise* with the slogan “For The Benefit Of All” It is owned and operated by its founder Musician singer, song-writer and music producer Jeff Hayford.  Jeff came up with the unique name and logo including his tattoo in 2003.  However, the humanitarian events he was implementing through music and entertainment began a long time ago.  Jeff was born a humanitarian and helped humanity in all sorts of creative ways.  

The concept behind A4H is basically helping rase money for causes by holding events that bring professional musicians together to play music and entertain.  He has helped the Kidney Foundation, Feeding America, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, devastations after natural disasters for clothing, food and shelter, and the Alzheimer’s Association. 

My Illustration theme are hands.  It is through the hands of artists that their expression comes from.  The hands represent different mediums of expression form playing a guitar, painting, a ballet dancers hands, writers, and the clasping of two hands in unity.  

The guitar’s fret markers are Native American, Iquique, geometric, symbols meaning health, prosperity, and a long life.  The headstock of the guitar is the dove a symbol of peace and on each side as the strings fan out is the Olive branch and the Lotus flower.  The fingers on the neck form an E Augmented movable chord symbolizing the essential natural tuning of guitars.  The key of E is the collective and the most common key of the instrument.  The purple ribbon intertwines through the hands, symbolizing many physical disorders including ADHD, and Cancer, they connect to a geometric symbol of two triangles.  The symbolIic meaning of double triangles has to do with freedom of expression, and the four elements fire, earth water, and air.  These two triangles rest within the unity symbol symbolizing having all four elements in perfect balance.  The large heart is love and the entire illustration lies within it.  At the base of the heart is the logo A4H. This is the foundation of the entire concept by supporting the Fine & Performing Arts & Humanity, “For The Benefit Of All.” Throughout history Arts and Humanities have had a unique relationship. 

*A not for profit social enterprise is funded by affiliated businesses rather than relying on donations. 💜

A4hpros.blogspot.com  @a4hpros

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Christmas Card

Mother & Child “Precious Gifts”

Illustration: Christmas Card   2010

This was the first Christmas card I created in Pen & Ink using the concept of mother & child.  However in this illustration I chose to have two little girls and their mother pregnant with another on the way.

Although this could be used as a wedding card, the concept behind this illustration symbolizes children being precious gifts from God or from your Creator.  Babies are little angels and they bring parents immense joy!  Children are growing angels that cease to amaze us all in the words they say, and the actions they take to make us laugh.  They’re pure and innocent souls that depend on us in every way.  When they get to be an adolescent these precious gifts become challenging keeping us on our toes!  This is the time when we need to give extra guidance if they’ll listen.  It’s an awkward age, and girls are different from boys.  If we can get them through these years without finding a few gray strands of hair its miracle.  When they become young adults they are ready for college and are preparing to leave the nest.  We get involved with all the college festivities and watch them mature and grow.  After college some come back home due to financial dependency, others can’t find a job in their field, or their unable to find roommates or a romantic partner to help them share expenses.  

Once in their mid to late twenties they get a feel for what they may want to do with their lives however they will ask for guidance, advice, and sometimes financial help.

Parents and single parents know no mater what age your children are they will always need your love, wisdom, help and guidance.  Once a parent always a parent the job is never really over.

Then comes a time when they bing more precious gifts, grandchildren.  This is a great time because when you get tired they take their precious gifts and go home leaving you to take Advil and rest.  

In the end the roles are reversed and these precious gifts take care of you.  They worry about you, some take care of you, and all they want is for you to feel secure, protected, healthy, and content.  

They are truly precious gifts all through our lives however, one lesson is for sure how much love, time, and effort we give to these precious gifts is what we will get back in return…🎁

 

Christmas Card

The Christmas Peace Angel

Illustration: Christmas Card.  2009

The idea for this card came during a life altering six months after the passing of Michael Jackson.  This year was a spiritual awaking for me, and since this unequivocal event, I have never been the same.  To say the least it was the most incredible and unforgettable incident of my life!

My spiritual awareness was heightened and everything and everyone was connected.  I felt an enormous flow of unconditional love, creativity, and empathy for the human condition.  

This angel illustration is just one means of expression as to how I was feeling.  An overwhelming sense of serenity and peace was surrounding my tranquil exterior this particular Holiday Season like no other.  I thought it quite appropriate to create this Peace Angel.  

It seems she is needed every year, and I wonder when during my lifetime there will a time of peace throughout the world for one minute, day, week, month, year, or years…. 

I suppose World Peace will be my Christmas manifestation every year, and perhaps the Universe will eventually grant it… 

 

Christmas Card

The Nutcracker 

Illustration: Christmas Card   2008

The Nutcracker is a traditional Christmas ballet.  In this illustration I took the two main characters in the story and put them at center stage.  It is love that has brought them together, and even though he is a stoic wooden soldier,  Clara is intensely drawn to him.  She loves him no matter what size, shape, color, or form!  

The Christmas season is all about love.  Like in the story of the Nutcracker, Clara dreams about an imaginary fantasy by which her beloved nutcracker becomes a prince!  

The Christmas season is about children, and their vivid imaginations of meeting Santa Claus telling him their inner most secrets and their wishes.  It is a magical time for children as well as adults in believing that anything is possible.  It is also a time for giving and receiving.  An exchange of gifts to show our love and appreciation for each other.  Children are the real receivers of this wondrous and joyous time.  They are center stage, and the most important part of us no matter what ages they are.

The nutcracker is a symbol of faith in believing.  Believing that no matter what the circumstances are we overcome them, by putting ourselves aside, and worry about others.  This is also a cheerful, festive, merry, and bright time to get together in celebration.  It’s a time of peace around the world, unconditional love, unwavering hope, and as a collective unity for humanity.  It’s a time when all is possible, and nothing is unattainable if we have unhesitating faith.  

The spirit of The Christmas Season is a mystical time for our souls, it allows all of us to remind ourselves it is through love that we feel our best selves, and the rewards we innately feel by giving unselfishly to others unconditionally without conditions…💂🏼

 

Christmas Card

The Magic of Christmas

Illustration: Christmas Card   2007

As an Illustrator I sometimes want to work in a different Medium.  In this case I bought a set of colored fine tip pens.  In this illustration I wanted to use my imagination as if I were a child myself.  I asked, what about all the elves who help Santa? When they have a few minutes break from making toys where do they go?  I found out they go deep into the forests where it is motionless and quiet. 

They dwell high among the pine trees so they can’t be seen.  

I you notice to the right of the illustration there are two elves playing in a tree.  The male elf is in love, and he is showing off to get the female elf’s attention to look at him.  She is amazed by his strength and stability to support his legs around the tree.  This is the first time these two elf’s have met.  She has never noticed this elf before, and to her it was love at first sight!  She is simply adoring every move he makes staring into each other’s eyes.  They are whimsically happy, frolicking together secretly in the tree where no one can see them.  It is magic that bought them together.  You see, while working in the toy factory there are multiple floors with many different departments that have elf’s making particular toys.  They are trained specialists having no time to waste, for they must make all the toys before Christmas Day.  These two elf’s worked on different floor’s in different departments never having a chance to ever meet. 

As we all know, falling in love is a magical experience just as it is during the Christmas season, miracles have been known to happen, even for Santa’s little elf’s…🎅🏼

 

Christmas cards

A Christmas Wish

Illustration:  Christmas Card  2006

The idea for this card came to me because of a child.  Friends of mine have a little girl who is an angel.  She is a unique little girl and her name is Charlotte.  She came with her parents to visit me before Christmas and was looking under my tree.  She asked if any of the presents were for her?  I replied “yes, but you will have to find it.” She said, “how will I know?”  I said, “I’ll let you know when your are close to finding it, or you put your hand on it” and, she replied goody!”  It didn’t take her long as if she had already knew and said “this is mine!”  She sat down on the living room floor and politely asked “can I open it now?” And, I said yes!  She didn’t rip the paper off she took her time as if savoring the moment anticipating her surprise.  When she got to the box she said “its clothes!”  When she opened the box she saw a whole outfit, a pink knitted sweater with ivory lace trim, wild black and pink leopard leggings, a long sleeve black turtle neck top, a pink knitted scarf, pink knitted gloves with Ivory lace trim, and a pink knitted French beret hat.  Charlotte said, “I wished for this!”  I was surprisingly moved by her response.  I said, “why did you wish for this?”  Charlotte said, my favorite color is pink, and I have always wanted a whole set that came altogether so everything matches!”  

She melted my heart this little angel, I knew she genuinely great full and dashed to the bathroom and put the whole outfit on.  She came out looking like a doll.  She was so happy she ran over to me and softly whispered in my ear the words, I Love You…😇

 

 

Christmas Cards

Pookie’s First Christmas

Illustration: Christmas Card by Donna Massa  2005

Pookie was named after the character Pookie Adam’s brilliantly played by Liza Minnelli in the 1969 film “The Sterile Cuckoo.”  I adored and cherished that film along with the theme song “Come Saturday Morning” by The Sandpipers.  The film had a lasting impression on me especially Liza’s character Pookie Adams.  

If you’ve ever seen a Scottish Fold or owned one the breed is not as sophisticated as other breeds.  What I mean be this is, they are not as high strung.  Scottish Folds are mellow and make wonderful loving and gentle pets.  They are smaller in size and have a personality all their own.  They are smart and train well making excellent indoor cats.  Because of their naturally folded ears they are so adorable to look at you cannot resist holding them.  Some Scottish Fold breeds do not have the life span of regular domestic cats.  My Pookie only lived for ten years, however her untimely death was at the hands of an inexperienced veterinarian who failed to order a blood panel test before surgery.  Pookie was not ready to experience an operation putting her at risk for organ failure.  I was not aware that blood tests are needed before any form of surgery on any animal, this is something pet owners should be aware of.  She went in for a simple procedure on a troubled back tooth and was sent home never to recover.  She passed away within twenty four hours and I was devastated and heart broken. 

During Pookie’s life she instinctively knew when the season of Christmas was coming.  It could have been her instinctive ability to smell and feel the change in the air, and watch the snow falling.  The first time I put up a real Frazier Fur Pine tree, and watered it she loved the smell.  She would sit patiently in a chair facing the tree and watch me rap around the lights, and trim the entire tree.  I put a soft festive skirt under the tree, and waited for dusk.  When I turned on the colored lights her big, round, sky blue eyes light up.  She jumped off the chair, and nestled herself under the tree and slept there all night.  She loved the lights on the tree, and I knew she knew every year after her first experience she would innately know when it was Christmas.  It was literally her time to shine enjoying the lights, and sleeping under the Christmas tree until it was time to take it down.  

Because of her untimely death, this unexpected event left me grieving for months, so much so, I wanted to do something in her honor, and that wanted to create an illustrative Christmas Card in her memory.  The ironic part of this story is, because of this one Christmas card it propelled me to go back to my roots as a Fine Art illustrator.  I made a transition in my career from a former Fashion designer to a freelance illustrator.  From that moment on I never stoped illustrating to as we speak. 

I believe it is through her spirit that gave me the inspiration, and internal drive to become a Fine Art hand illustrator…😽  

 

The Voyagers Series

The Voyagers Series

Fashion Illustration by Donna Massa

Europe: When Drew & Erin first discovered time traveling they found themselves in a different century and a different contentment. They are immediately transformed in the traditional style of that particular century.  This is a time when bow and arrows were the main means of defense, protection, and security.  Their first time traveling was when they landed in Europe on a Spanish Tall Ship headed for Spain.  It is there where their incredible journey begins never really knowing what trials and tribulations lie ahead!

They experience many different adventures in Europe that eventually leads them back to their home in England during the Age of Camelott…🌎

 

The Voyagers Series

The Voyagers Series 

Fashion Illustration by Donna Massa

Meet Drew & Erin.  They’re brother and sister who live in London, England.  These are the two main characters in The Voyagers Series who time travel.  Drew in just a few months older then Erin making them very close in age.  Drew has a protective personality by nature especially for his sister Erin.  He is very adventurous yet cautious as he always puts safety ahead of danger.  On the other hand Erin is fearless she is not afraid of anything and loves all animals especially in the wild.  She has a special relationship with animals like that of a horse whisper and they are not afraid or aggressive towards her.  Drew and Erin’s characters and personalities are opposite in ways that balance each other out, this makes them ideal, compatible partners in everything they do together.  Their relationship is like that of twins, they are very close they do almost everything together.  Their qualities and traits are inquisitive, strong, vibrant, intelligent, loving, adventurous, courageous, and both share a passion for time travel to journey around the world…🌎

 

The Voyagers Series

The Voyagers Series I Europe

Illustration Back Cover by Donna Massa

The back cover of The Voyagers Series is the the most important ingredient of the Series regarding time traveling,  This is the crystal cave Erin & Drew explored when they first found the portal to time traveling.  It is through the golden waters when bathing that took them instantly on their journey to Europe.  This magical crystal cave called out to them.  The colors and shapes of the crystals, the swirling sands, and beauty of this magical cave intrigued their senses.  They couldn’t resist swimming in the pure cool golden waters to cleanse their bodies however, what they didn’t know was this was the gate-way to any of the seven Continent’s in the world…🌎

 

The Voyagers Europe

 

The Voyagers Series 1 Europe

Illustration Book Cover By Donna Massa

This was the first of the Voyager Series.  The first book by which author Will Rhame’s takes reading to a whole new level.  This is a innovative story that brings you to England during the Age of Camelott, the place where Erin & Drew were raised.  Their relationship with their parents, life at home and what leads them to finding the cave and portal to time travel, and their incredible journey ahead is what makes these two books so much fun to read.  The concept that the author puts together is a total pleasurable experience for the reader by make reading fun, entertaining, inspirational, magical, and rewarding.  There are a series of steps the reader must take before going through each chapter.  The challenges presented are in the form of games, crossword puzzles, and quizzes.  Each Chapter has a key word or hint that represents the moral of each story within the book. The whole concept is brilliant!  This is why I wanted to work with the author because I knew it was going to help children in a big way.

When it comes to humanitarian efforts, creative projects, and events this is where my passion lies.  I’m happiest when I’m creating especially when I’m of service to humanity trying to make the world a better place. L.O.V.E. 🌎

 

The Voyagers Series

 

The Voyagers Series II Africa

Illustration Back Cover by Donna Massa

In this illustration there is a chapter that talks about the thickly settled jungle that is a pathway Erin & Drew must go through before dark.  This is of great concern to both but more so for Drew as his imagination gets the best of him.  He is more cautious of wild animals then Erin.  Erin in not afraid of animals in the wild and has no fear attached to these creators they entail on their wonderos adventures in Africa…🌎

The Voyager Series

The Voyagers Series II Africa

Illustration Book Cover by Donna Massa

Let me start by saying it was a pleasure working with the Author Will D. Rhyme on this artistic project.  He has a unique vision of how children can learn to comprehend what they read.  He steps out of his comfort zone and developed a brilliant approach of how this process is played out in this series of two books.  When we spoke online  i as intrigued by his innovative vision.  When I was a child reading & comprehension was a difficult challenge for me so I understood how this process would help children retain what they read.

I read read his manuscript on the The Voyagers Africa and I could feel what the the cover of the book was going to look like and the characters. Two adolescents a brother Drew and sister Erin who go on adventures through time travel portal a crystal cave that is a secret place they’ve found.  

In the next three illustrations and two fashion illustrations I will visually show what the author had in mind when he wrote The Voyagers Series, Europe & Africa…🌎 

 

Cornucopia

 

Cornucopia

Illustration By Donna Massa. 2005

This is actually an exercise in learning about the Magic of Prismacolor!  This illustration is a modern version of the Horn of Plenty also know as Cornucopia. The concept is Harvest Time.  In the Autumn Season farmers harvest what they’ve grown over the Summer season and gather all of it before the killing frost. All the wonderful fruits and vegetables grown including flowers are ready to be on display at farm stands and many facilities that sells food and flowers. 

A horn of Plenty is usually displayed as a center piece on your Thanksgiving table. In the horn are grapes, a variety of squash’s, different kinds of apples, pears, artichokes, corn, carrots, peppers tomatoes, small Sun flowers, colored leaves from the Maple trees, and more. 

In this illustration you can see parts of the Cornucopia and around it shapes of vegetables and fruits. I must say, that once this process started I could not stop creating and one thing grew into another and I could not stop my hand until it looked to be complete.  Everything was flowing together inter twinning all in-cased in a circle.  This was how it was forming in my mind and out through my hand and it was a magical experience.  I don’t usually do modern, but this composition was unique and I was totally unprepared with the results…

I can say this to other artists of any Medium of the Fine Arts and the Performing Arts.  One may set out to create a particular concept, or have a general idea of what they want to express.  The magic comes through the unexplained, the minds absence to control or fix.  It flows out of you like a faucet that can’t be shut off and it takes control of you.  They say, this is when your the closest to the Divine source and your creativity and imagination is heightened and it will exceed all boundaries…

🧡🍁🍂🌻🌾🍎🍏🍐🍇🌽🍆🫑🍅🌶🍷🥂🍻💛

 

Jeff’s Album Cover

Blue Black & Gray

Illustration Album Art by Donna Massa  2017

This was a very exciting project because I had the opportunity to collaborate with another artist, musician and singer songwriter.  He wanted me to illustrate is album cover and I was delighted to do this project with him.  

The only way I can truly understand how to approach this was to first know about the musician.  This would be a meeting or an interview with the musician talking about the genre of his music, what was his message to his fans, did each song have a different message that told a story or were they all uniquely different from one another.  His style, quality of his voice, instruments he plays, history of what the album was about even to the name of the album and did it have some significance to him personally or the music.  The second important part the project is to hear his music and the lyrics to his songs.  At the time the album was not completed, however I listened to the some of his songs he had recorded.  The third and final part of the project is to watch the artist play, sing and perform at a gig.  this would give me an understanding of the emotional feelings he portrays while he is playing and singing.  

The title of the album Blue, Black & Gray are the colors seen having a near death experience.  He told me about a horrific motorcycle accident he suffered in 1984 at only nineteen years old.  How he was pronounced dead at the scene.  He traveled out of his body and slowly floated into space and the start of the vast universe. These three colors are what he encountered with the exceptional pleasure of peace and tranquility.  He was perfectly happy accepting his journey until he turned to look back and saw his mother running towards his body with the medics trying to get a heart beat.  He said to himself  “If my mother sees this it will kill her.”  As soon as he said this to himself he was transported instantly back to his body in horrific pain.  He sustained serious injuries to his head, left hand, and whole left leg.  The prognosis was immediate amputation to the lower leg below the knee.  Fortunately an incredible semi retired surgeon Kathleen Roberson who used to work in the mash units in Korea was contacted and she was interested in the case.  She would not accept amputation as an option rather, she was determined to save the leg and she miraculously did.  

This musician is a multi talented and highly gifted artist who’s heritage is Native American and English.  The Native American tribe of his ancestors is the Iroquois and in the inner round part of the disc is a ribbon pattern that is distinctly Iroquois Native American.

In the center of the disc is the artist musician Jeff Hayford with a heart symbolizing his passion and joy playing his G&L Blues Boy electric guitar.  The blue surrounding him is the color of the sky, and the inner part of the disc is black and gray.  This is the journey of his soul as it was leaving the earth.  

The outer rim of the disc is a rainbow of colors, this is a reflection of light when you turn a disc on certain angles.  The outside of the disc is the blue, black and gray colors bleeding into each other symbolizing his journey through space heading towards a portal.  He chose not to go through that portal and return to Earth.  

Jeff Hayford is a unique and compassionate individual who is sensitive to the human condition.  He is an advocate for Chronic Pain as he has suffered all his life battling with it.  His humanitarian efforts-have been many throughout his life holding events by bringing other musicians together for worldly causes.  He is the founder of a not for profit social enterprise  A4H  Arts4Humanity “For The Benefit Of All.”  

Jeff Hayford is a talented musician, graphic artist, writer and music producer.  He has performed up and down the east coast from the Florida Keys to Portland Maine.  He has spent time playing in Nashville TN, New York City, Boston, MA, The Mt Washington Valley of NH and many other popular places in New England.  He has been the front man for a few of his own bands, opened for many big bands as a solo artist and has met and hung out with professional well known musicians.  If you want to hear Jeff Hayford sing please go to

N1M.co/Jeff Hayford.  If you interested in his writing pleas go to   a4hpros.blogspot.com.

Jamison

 

Jamison

Illustration By Donna Massa  2014

This illustration was created for a customer who wanted a design for her new little grandson Jamison.  This is the finished illustration that the customer later framed for his room.  The questions I asked in order to create this illustration after the child was born was his name, date of birth, exact time of birth, and place of birth.  This enabled me to calculate his Astrological Solar Chart, a blue print of this little man’s character, personality and many other aspects of his nature.  His astrological Sun sign that governs his character was in the sign of Pisces, planetary ruler Neptune, element water.  His Rising or Ascendant was in the sign of Aries planetary ruler Mars element fire, and his Moon that governs his personality was in the sign of Taurus planetary ruler Venus element earth.  This information set up the entire concept of this composition when using the letters of his name.  

Some letters of his name illustrates something about this little man’s birth sign Pisces.  This is a water sign baby and the symbol are two fish side by side going in opposite directions.  One fish going upstream and the other downstream.  Like the symbol of the fish these water-babies love to swim and feel most comfortable living near water especially the ocean and they love everything the ocean represents.  This is an emotional sign, sensitive, compassionate, intuitive, gentle, wise, musical, artistic, loves nature and animals, and has a happy playful disposition.  These traits are illustrated in the letters J & S.  

His Rising or Ascendant is in the sign of Aries.  This is a strong fire sign that is ambitious, determined, aggressive, innovative, energetic and honest.  Most of these traits are illustrated in the letter M.

The Moon that governs his personality is in the sign of Taurus.  This being an earth element represents being firmly grounded in the sand, practical and logical thinking, likes gardening, working with his hands and an affectionate lover-boy.  This is illustrated in the letters S,O, & N.

In the center is the letter I.  This letter represents the astrological symbol of the Planet Neptune ruler of Pisces.  This Planet ruler is known for its inspiration, a higher level of spirituality, dreams, illusions, fantasies and all things magical and enchanting are illustrated in the letter A.  This little man’s name takes on his own individual identity one that will support him for the rest of his life…

 

Irises

Illustration: Vignette

By Donna  Massa  2005

Irises are one of my favorite late Spring early Summer perennial flowers.  Irises like Orchids another one of my favorites are intricately designed to perfection.  For me, everything about the Iris is a magical wonder of nature.  The Iris takes its name from Greek Mythology the Greek Goddess of the Rainbow and messenger to Zeus & Hera.  Many believe the Iris is named after Hera who carries messages from heaven to earth on the arc of the rainbow and was the companion to female souls on the way to heaven.  In Greek culture purple Irises are planted on women’s graves so that this valor flower will safely guide their souls to their final resting place in paradise.  In Indian and Egypt cultures Irises were used to ornate the palaces also having a connection to heaven.  When the Iris has fully matured and is in full bloom they are so uniquely structured not one flower is ever the same design.  The Iris flower symbolizes royalty, wisdom, hope, optimism, trust and bravery and thrives in temperate zones around the world.  

They come in a wide spectrum of colors and the colors also symbolize special meanings.  A variety of purples present gratitude and respect.  Blue Irises represents hope, faith and devotion.  White, represents purity, innocence, and divinity.  And yellow, breaks from tradition and represents passion!  Irises is the birth flower of February the color is purple, stone is Amethyst, zodiac sign Aquarius, and Planetary ruler Uranus.  

Irises are used for perfumes and aerosol sprays.  There are over 200 known species and countless cultivars, and are classified by two distinct types one being a bulb, the other rhizome.  The Dutch Iris is one of my favorites they are smaller flowers that grow in a bunch with long slender green leaves, and are deep rich purple in color.  

I illustrated this flower because it proposed a challenge to me due to its intrinsic and intriguing beauty.  I also created this for my daughter who loves Irises.  The original illustration is mounted, double matted and framed, and hangs on the bedroom wall in my daughters home in Madrid, Spain… 

 

The Toyger Cat

 

Mr Mo Tibbs

Illustration By Donna Massa   2006

I am a true cat lover.  I’ve had many cats in my life and they have brought me sorrow and given me great joy!  Mr Mo Tibbs is a name I gave to this Toyger cat.  This is not one of my cats I chose this Toyger cat to be in this illustration.  Toyger cats have their own identity in the cat world.  These affectionate cats are intelligent, loving, and have a wild tiger like personality.  Owners of these cats say they can be occasionally aloof, often mysterious, whimsical and even a little magical.  They are relatively active, playful, and friendly.  Their body has the base color of pumpkin, with its trademark stripes of black or dark brown.  The markings across the body hold a completely unique pattern to each cat, no other cat has the same identical markings even from the same litter, I find this aspect amazing.  

The Toyger has an excellent disposition and can get along with any other cat or cats you may have at home.  But, like most cats the owners need to keep them occupied if they don’t want them to become too mischievous or curious which can lead them into trouble.  

If your thinking of getting one of these cats it’s important to work a breeder.  Search the TICA database by name for the right breeders.  This way you know the history of the parents, and that they have been screened for any of the possible feline disorders.   

In closing, all cats are special they are wonderful company, loyal companions and respond to love, affection and attention.  They say when having a pet people in life usually live longer…

The Great Blue Heron

Illustration By Donna Massa   2005

I love the tropics and within this heavenly environment comes an abundance of the most beautiful and unusual birds.  One of my favorites is the blue Heron.  This bird symbolizes self-reliance and self-determination.  The Native American interpretation is the ability to evolve and progress.  Those with the blue Heron Spirit Animal in the Native American tradition posses innate wisdom and strength that helps them maneuver an co-create their achievements in life.  In the Christian community this bird is associated with good luck and a long life.  The Heron also serves as an inspiration in the Christian community as a guide to contentment and great fullness with one’s lot in life.

The Herons stillness and patience while in waite of its pray, all centers around their instinctive ability of tolerance and restraint.  This innate practice is symbolic of receiving great blessings in life. In other words, (Good things come to those who wait…)

His Heron is surrounded but a variety of tropical plants on a paradise Island.  He is a male blue Heron because of his size and his longer bill.  Blue Herons don’t mate for life however their courtship and mating habits are elaborate.  Once the female is impregnated the male helps her in fulfilling all the shared responsibility by preparing the nest that is 3feet X 3feet.  They share in incubating the eggs for twenty eight days.  Once hatched, they share in the upbringing however it takes a young Heron three years to reach full maturity.  The Great Blue Heron stands almost 4 feet tall and has a 6 foot long wingspan.  If your lucky enough to see these striking birds fly closely above your head, I doubt if you would ever forget how magnificent they are…

Prismacolor I

 

Surrender

Illustration By Donna Massa  2007 

The World of Prismacolor!                             

This illustration is personal, it was an enlightening breakthrough in my life.  I was going through physical issues that required extensive physical therapy in a few different areas of my life.  It was a journey in healing my mind, body and soul. 

TRUST was the biggest issue to overcome.  Trust involves letting go of ego, a guarded heart and closed mind.  Much of everyday life is built on trust.   

The illustration shows a woman in the middle of an ocean floating.  Just imagine all the things lurking in the ocean waters, fish & birds of pray, a storm at sea, extreme sunburn, no water or food, the darkness of the night sky,  and being totally alone with no one in sight no life line or support.  There is nothing but the element of water symbolizing the emotions, the element of air symbolizing the mind & intellect and the element of fire from the sun symbolizing ambition, determination and the will to either live or die. The element missing is Earth symbolizing the solid stable ground under your feet like living in a home without a ceiling or a floor.

If you notice her limbs are becoming submerged within the water connecting to the push and pull of the swirling waves then disappearing into the depths of the sea.  The mid section of her body is afloat almost sitting on top of the water.  Her hair like seaweed flowing in a direction away from her skull.  Her head is turned towards the horizon of the sun’s entrance into the sky, bringing light, warmth and hope to the dawning of a new day.  She is at total peace, one with self and everything that surrounds her.  There is no need to panic, stress out or feel overwhelming anxiety, the process has begun she has no choice but to trust letting go of all her fears. 

She has surrendered opening her mind to trust, heart to love and soul to accept.  She finally has peace of mind, she is one with the three elements, appreciative of Mother Earth and trusts unconditionally the Universe the ultimate provider…