" ... Embellished with eyes of marbles and bright colors, these creatures have grown into a small menagerie of fantasy and imagination which brings smiles to the faces of adults and wonderment to children.
If there was ever a compelling argument for the virtue of growth and creativity in retirement it would be the work of Claude O’Donnell. It allows all of us to consider what we can and wish to do with our remaining years rather than dwell on those which came before."

April 2009
Robert E. Croul
Fine Arts Appraiser

I worked for over thirty-five years in a corporate environment. It was clear to me and others that while my career in finance was rewarding, my interests far exceeded the conventional business world. At an early age, I began working with wood for personal enjoyment. I liked the look of hand lettering and painting related images on unique pieces of wood. I gave many of those early works away to friends and family who expressed a fondness for them. It was fun and provided a necessary outlet for expressing my overactive imagination. My natural inclination is to communicate through visual mediums. I continued to pursue my professional business career while always cultivating my love for art.

As time raced on, and it does, my good fortune allowed me to retire at an unusually early age. I was often asked by others why I was leaving a meaningful career and also asked how I would fill all of those empty retirement days ? It was never a question in my mind. So much to do and so little time to get it done. Finally I now had the time to pursue my love of art on my own terms. My approach is one of curiosity and a wide open attitude. I am not competing, striving or forcing the process. Just letting all of the variables come together while trusting that the outcome will be satisfying. It is often surprising. The piece when completed solves the mystery.

My interest in carving birds is simple, they are wonders of nature. The discipline teaches many aspects of form and function. The technical skills necessary to replicate a live bird teaches me to be a better sculptor particularly with regard to shaping and detailing. It is kind of like practicing music scales in order to play jazz. Welding helps me hold it all together when necessary and painting brings my forms to life. If you find a connection when you view my art, I consider that we have shared a moment together. I hope you enjoy the show.