There was always something exciting in the workshop of Leonardo. (They) not only learned to paint there, but they learned to think and inquire and investigate the universe.
Without consciously adhering to that, our studios have somewhat followed suit—brimming with project overflows; sketches and paintings pinned and mounted everywhere; mannequins with ever-changing costumes; studio props; camera equipment of varying sizes; of course books everywhere; but above all—the aura of problem-solving and research into the mysteries of the universe. We certainly don't share Leonardo's genius, but we do share his curiosity and passion for knowledge.
Many of our projects entail interpretive graphics, meaning that we need to study and understand the subjects that we endeavor to explain visually. Over the years we have developed interpretive exhibits and murals about Egyptian, Chinese, Aztec and other assorted cultures; prehistoric animals and dinosaurs; current ecosystems; historical persons and events; space exploration and modern technologies; various branches of science; children's interests and issues; and currently just finished an up-to-date graphic portrayal of the origins and evolution of our planet earth. We are illustrating two books, as we speak; developing content graphics for two visitor centers in magnificent areas of the country; and creating portraits of very interesting people.
All of these projects require so much research and spill their contents through our brains and into hundreds of sketches and finished art pieces that fill our studios and our lives. Our daughter is majoring in theatrical stagecraft, which brings another magical dimension to our mix.
In addition, my personal interests push deep into the esoteric regions of science and philosophy, involving the mysteries of Time, Space, Dimensionality and the Human Condition. I don't have the conceit to think I could contribute substantially to the subjects, but curious, I am so curious.
Leonardo has always been close to my heart, and it started with this very story:
Donn P. Crane made so many drawings of so many subjects.
