A Brush with Greatness – Donald

14 × 11 inches | Wrapped canvas
Tempera paint
Artist: Donald, chimpanzee

Rich greens sweep across the canvas in thick, overlapping strokes, with flashes of yellow peeking through the layers. Some marks are broad and substantial, while others curl and twist into unexpected shapes. There’s a wonderful sense of depth and texture, giving this relatively small painting a surprisingly commanding presence.

Donald knows a thing or two about having a presence. He’s a large, imposing chimpanzee, but appearances don’t tell the whole story. Among his favorite enrichment items are baby dolls, which he’ll happily carry around for hours. It’s one of the reasons his caregivers affectionately call him their big CareBear. Behind all that muscle is a remarkably gentle fellow.