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…🎅🏼