Doug Katonak is an outstanding example of a person finding a very successful "second career" in the world of art. He began painting after retiring from his Federal Aviation Administration position in 1973. In 1976, he opened his studio in Fountain Hills and began teaching.
Doug feels, "Either in landscapes or western scenes, it is my desire to stop the clock of progress so that people can take a nostalgic trip back in time or catch a glimpse of our history before it disappears." Few modern cowboys are able to practice their profession in old-fashioned ways and he takes satisfaction in capturing it at every opportunity.
Artists have played a prominent role in perpetuating the nostalgia surrounding the cowboy and have helped to make him a legend and folk hero. Most men have at times fancied themselves as a pioneer or trailblazer, but few are left that have actually played that role. His unique renderings of western scenes have received wide acclaim and are displayed in prominent businesses and have hung in the Arizona Senate Building.
Annually in mid-July he has a one-man show at the John Crist Winery in Avon Lake, Ohio. Lovers of the diverse ecological systems that comprise Arizona's landscapes can find in Katonak's works...... storms and stillness, wind and nightfall.... The sky-tones are inescapable the dominant element brilliant color choices and gifts for balance.
You may call Doug at: 480-837-1299 or send an email
