Leelanau Peninsula: Painted Furniture Artist Dona Kelly

I have long admired northern Michigan artist Dona Kelly and this is the perfect time to put her in the spotlight.  Her signature style is blending uplifting phrases with locally-inspired illustrations on furniture and mirrors.  She was recently commissioned to make a "Leland" piece for the entrance to the newly remodeled Leland Lodge.  In a word, it is spectacular.

She has brought a map of Leland to life on a beautiful sideboard with drawers (Psst...open the drawers to see more images inside!).  If you have ever walked the streets of this charming town on the shores of Lake Michigan, you will feel right at home.

She has the Leland River winding past the Riverside Inn, the library, the Merc and over the dam to into historic Fishtown, just like you remember.  

I feel like this will become "the art to visit" for generations to come - a trip wouldn't be the same without spending a few minutes studying the map.  I know that young and old will enjoy finding their favorite stores, locating where their cottage is or pointing out where they had a picnic.  This is art reflecting life in the best possible way.

If you love this piece like I do, you can contact Dona Kelly to get something for yourself!  Her email is kellygirlart@yahoo.com  She will also be selling her upbeat collection at the Leland Artist Market at the Old Art Building on July 13, 2013 from 10-5pm.