Donald Ense, a master of crafting art from memories, was born on Manitoulin Island in 1953. His artistic journey spans over five decades, deeply influenced by his upbringing and cultural heritage. From an early age, Ense demonstrated a creative spirit, designing patterns for his mother's handmade clothing and blankets. He started by replicating comic book illustrations, constantly doodling in class, and immersing himself in the stories shared by his great grandparents, who lived nearby. These formative experiences laid the foundation for his future as an artist.

Ense's early artistic endeavors were primitive, lacking formal training, but driven by keen observation. His initial foray into using color and techniques was guided by a local artist in his community. In parallel to his art, Ense worked alongside his father, a stonemason, constructing fireplaces for cabin-owning tourists on their island.

Art for Ense was not limited to visual expression; it was also a literary pursuit. Influenced by his grandfather's strong writing skills and exposure to a Canadian poet, he began writing poetry and had some of his work published alongside his illustrations by an Ojibwe cultural organization. In the 1970s, he taught art and shared stories and legends at a summer camp organized by his community, where participants would create art inspired by the narratives.

A pivotal moment in Ense's artistic journey occurred when he moved to Vancouver and encountered mentors Bill Reid and Daphne Odjig. Although he initially painted in the style of Norval Morisseau, he soon realized the importance of embracing his unique voice. He transitioned back to his own style, rooted in childhood memories and the traditions in which he was raised. Ense's art is a reflection of his recollections of playing hockey, gathering maple sap, and engaging in activities that harken back to a simpler, more socially connected time before the age of cell phones.

Over the years, Ense's visual art style has evolved, drawing influence from Impressionist techniques and combining them with his distinctive approach. He revels in the use of colors, employing a palette of eight basic hues that he meticulously mixes himself. In addition to painting, Ense creates lino cut prints, a technique he learned in community college, and is expanding his repertoire to include pastels, allowing for the exploration of more dramatic colors.

Ense's art encapsulates the memories of hands-on craftsmanship, fishing, hunting, berry-picking, syrup-making, and boat-building, skills and traditions passed down through generations in his family. He fondly recalls trapping beavers alongside his grandfather, selling pelts to nearby fur companies.

To nurture his mental well-being, Ense engages in walks, guitar playing, and composing his own music. He played in coffee houses and received mentorship from musician David Campbell. Inspired by his father, a country singer, and influenced by musicians like Buffy Sainte Marie and Bob Dylan, Ense honed his finger-picking style by emulating their techniques.

For aspiring artists, Ense offers sage advice: develop skills and maintain employment to navigate lean times while building an art career. He acknowledges the challenges he faced when learning to sell his art, dealing with galleries, and connecting with collectors. Ense encourages emerging artists to educate themselves about copyright, visit art galleries, and seek insights from local artists about their early experiences.

Ense's journey in the art world began with hard work and persistence. He introduced himself and showcased his work by personally visiting galleries. While his artistic output has slowed over the years, he relishes taking his time when creating art, ensuring each piece is a masterpiece born from cherished memories. Donald Ense's enduring commitment to capturing a simpler time and sharing his wealth of experience continues to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts worldwide.

The World is your canvas™