Donna Badynski Signed Pastel Portrait – 1980, Rustic Frame, Glass

Striking 1980 portrait by American artist Donna Badynski, signed lower left and executed in pastel on handcrafted textured paper. The composition features a dignified older man in a vivid red headscarf, captured with confident strokes and expressive detail. Badynski’s skill with pastel gives the piece a layered richness, enhanced by the use of textured paper and a naturalistic palette.

• Artist: Donna Badynski (later Donna Clair)
• Title: [Untitled Portrait of a Man in Red Headscarf]
• Date: 1980
• Medium: Pastel on handcrafted textured paper
• Signature: Signed lower left, “D. Badynski – 1980”
• Inscription (Verso): "To Jack Thalman – Happy Valentine’s Day & Happy My New House – Feb 14, 1981 – Donna Badynski"
• Frame: Triple-matted rustic wood frame with linen border, behind glass
• Provenance: Gifted by the artist in 1981, as noted on the backing

Artist Biography:
Donna Badynski (later known professionally as Donna Clair) is a respected American painter whose work bridges portraiture and New Mexico landscape traditions. Educated at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Layton School of Art, she settled in Northern New Mexico, where the region’s light and culture deeply influenced her artistic vision. Clair's work has been exhibited widely and featured in numerous private collections. Her auction record includes realized prices up to $3,584, reflecting strong collector interest in her expressive, emotionally resonant style.

Condition:
In good condition overall. Pastel surface is clean and vibrant. A 0.25" chip is present in the glass at top center-right, and the artwork has shifted slightly and would benefit from being re-centered in the frame. Minor wear to frame consistent with age.

Dimensions:
Overall: 32 x 28 inches
Visible (sight): 18 x 14 inches