Celebrating Excellence

By Bettina McBee | Photos Courtesy of Dawson Cole

Dawson Cole Fine Art has a history of hosting epically entertaining events. Artist Richard MacDonald, accompanied by gallery director, co-owner, and daughter Michele Jayson, laid out the red carpet, opening the gallery’s doors to locals, tourists, collectors, artists, photographers, and models, inviting them to mingle among an array of perfectly posed bronze sculptures while enjoying the finest local catering. MacDonald’s one-man shows are full of excitement as he unveils his newest pieces. Guests can meet MacDonald and hear him discuss his artistic process.

All events are strategically planned, down to the last detail, to showcase a portion of MacDonald’s collection of over 650 pieces. It includes sculptures, original paintings, drawings, lithographs, serigraphs, and books that are beautifully photographed and bound. Jayson rotates pieces from this vast collection every few months, resetting the gallery to highlight the scope of MacDonald’s talent, making the gallery itself a revolving art piece.

Jayson has worked alongside her father since 1995, shouldering various responsibilities for the company. MacDonald has said that she is one of his best creations and an example of his original work. The gallery, complete with an outdoor garden, is a space for people to get up close to the sculptures and touch them, and for the staff to educate viewers about the artwork. “I love the wonderful people I get to meet,” says Jayson, “and to share my appreciation for the artwork.” Visitors often become friends and collectors of MacDonald’s work. The highest compliment Jayson receives is when a local comes into the gallery with family or friends to share MacDonald’s art.

The second Magnus Opus event is in October 2023, and MacDonald’s massive studio in Ryan Ranch will be the venue. The studio, which isn’t normally open to the public, will serve as an impressive setting for the upcoming gala. “It’s a huge team effort,” says Jayson. “The entire staff is instrumental in the event’s success.” The first Magnus Opus event, held in 2017, was a spectacular display of artistry, combining musicians, dancers, and Cirque du Soleil performers sprinkled throughout the studio to dazzle and delight guests. It was a top-notch affair, full of glitz, glamour, food, wine, and, as the sky darkened, the pouring of bronze in the foundry.

For more information, visit carmel.dawsoncolefineart.com.