Green and Teal

Donald Macdonald’s Green and Teal shifts from his signature ceramic vessels to a striking glass jar, placed centrally in a meticulously composed still life. Two hand-cut paper figures stand on either side—one male, leaning as if tipping the jar, and one female, watching intently. From the jar emerges a cascade of origami butterflies in various shades of green and teal, their folded forms casting crisp shadows against the soft, neutral background.

The symbolism in Green and Teal is particularly compelling. The male figure’s act of tipping the jar suggests agency, curiosity, or even disruption, while the female’s poised stance implies contemplation or expectation. The butterflies—symbols of change and liberation—rise gracefully from the confined space of the jar, creating a visual contrast between containment and release. The choice of cool-toned hues reinforces a sense of calm, evoking nature, growth, and renewal.

With Green and Teal, Macdonald masterfully blends realism with metaphor, prompting reflections on human interaction, transformation, and the delicate balance between control and surrender. The paper figures and origami butterflies add a touch of whimsy, yet the composition remains deeply thoughtful and refined. This exceptional artwork is currently on display and available for sale at Signet Contemporary Art Gallery and online.