Kathleen Donahue
I create figurative abstract art that revels in the diversity of our world, finding it inspirational and vital. I make original digital illustrations, some of which include elements from my handmade creations (screen prints, shibori fabrics, drawings, and paintings), other digital media (photographs, graphic designs, and film work), and influences from dance and theater.
Before transitioning to artistic work, I directed design for award-winning health tech startups in San Francisco and Silicon Valley, recognized for their innovation and global impact. Alongside my team of technologists, medical practitioners, and fellow creatives, I embraced the intersection of art, technology, and science to benefit society.
My design work in healthcare, my journey as a cancer patient and now a patient guide, and my background in the visual and performing arts all influence my artwork and artistic direction. I aim to illustrate the beauty of humanity and emphasize the need to care for all people and our shared environment.
I grew up in the Berkshires, MA and now reside in San Francisco, CA.
Exhibitions:
Group Exhibition: Go Figurative!, San Francisco Women Artists, San Francisco, CA, 2025
Group Exhibition: Women Rising, The Drawing Annex, San Francisco, CA, 2024
Group Exhibition: Art for Recovery, UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, 2023–present
Solo Exhibition: Thanks, Doc, Stanford University, 2012
Event art: TEDx Silicon Valley, Stanford University, 2010, 2011
Artist Statement
While inspired by objects I see, I use my dreams, visual flashes of thoughts, and recurring ideas for concepts that I evolve artistically. Concepts are often inspired by what I want to see in the world, the wonder of nature, and human creativity. Each tells a story, often with serious undertones yet visualized with seemingly light-hearted elements.
Whatever tool I use to make creative work, my intended and automatic marks may become part of the artwork if it feels right. I combine these influences using illustrative tools on my iPad and laptop to create vibrant illustrations. The final pieces are fine art prints produced with Giclée archival ink and printed on Hahnemühle archival, sustainable paper that gives them a color-rich, velvety quality.
Proud member of the following organizations
