Don Dahlke's Caribbean discovery is a long way from his native Oregon. Born in the 50's, he is the son of a feed and garden merchant.

It became clear early on that his call was painting. His formal art training ended abruptly when an instructor suggested he just go paint! So, that he did. The Caribbean and Mexico became the primary destinations and focus of his work.

Dalhke's early pieces can be classified as whimsical and playful, capturing the spirit of West Indian life. He also has experimented with abstracts in mixed media, revealing, perhaps, his more spiritual side. His current architectural series has been well developed with originals and limited edition giclees making his work affordable and collectible to a larger audience.

His strength of painting lies in his ability to capture the allure of the island ambiance, sun, warmth, and tropical hues.

His trademark can be found with lazy island shadows where palm trees casts darkened and playful shapes upon a cottage wall.The dimly lit interiors beckon a closer inspection and as you enter the house from an open window or door. Inside you discover a book or some other articles left behind momentarily adding a very human element.Directly ahead is often the back porch window where a sun-drenched ocean is revealed provoking a warm and calming experience.

Those human details within each image are often objects of significance to his life through the years. The stories of which we can only imagine.

Dahlke’s imagery appeals to those who desire a reminder of their visit to paradise.

Take pleasure in a temporary escape to a place of tranquility, just sit back and enjoy.