Who is Don Boyd?
Don was born in 1957 in a small Northwestern Ohio town. The last of four children born to a masonry contractor. As he grew up, he wore many different hats. First was becoming a Brick Mason. His father agreed to allow Don to buy his first horse when he was 11 providing he worked full time weekends and summers to pay for it. He continued in the masonry trade until he was a skilled brick layer, until 1979 when he went to work as a trainer for a small breeder in eastern Pennsylvania. For almost 40 years he trained and showed top end show horses internationally.
After winning two World Championships and raising two daughters—one a horse trainer and the other married to a horse trainer—Don finally found time to pick up a paintbrush. Don says, “I had the passion to paint since I took summer art classes at 9 years old. My instructor at the time said I had artistic talent, but horses and family dominated my time for the next 51 years!”
At 60, Don’s oldest daughter gifted him a Christmas present—two tickets to a “Wine and Painting” class. Don recalls, “I had so much fun! It reignited my passion.” Now retired, he started buying art supplies, and seven years later, he enjoys spending hours in his painting room. “Painting is the most relaxing activity I’ve ever done!” he says.
Don credits Bob Ross and the many paintings he attempted before mastering the techniques he now loves. While not every painting is a masterpiece, he believes each one has its own spirit. His goal is to let that spirit shine for others, not just himself. Don has experimented with various painting styles but always gravitates back to landscape painting.
His works are known for their bright colors and uplifting themes, often portraying beautiful natural scenes that nature lovers would appreciate. Many of his paintings feature water landscapes and appeal to outdoor enthusiasts like campers, fishermen, hunters, or hikers. Studying his artwork, one can almost feel transported to these serene locations.
Don currently resides in North Texas with his wife for 47 years,