Don Carlson  artist member

750 Highway 95 North
Bayport, MN 55003
Phone: (651) 275-3856
Email: dgc777@comcast.net
Spouse: Helen

Media: Oil, Pastel
Special Interests: World war I & II, Vintage Aircraft, general Aviation

        Don was born in Stillwater Minnesota in 1920. After high school, he attended the Saint Paul School of Art in Minneapolis. His first employment was as an apprentice artist for Midwest Badge and Novelty Company, followed by a job as a line artist for Greene Engraving Company. Don was called to active duty in 1941with the Minnesota National Guard. He transferred to the Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet and graduated as a pilot (multi-engine). He served as a Flight instructor at Selman Field, LA and held a dual rating as pilot and navigator. Don transitioned into B-17's and then B-29's. He returned to civilian life in 1946, returning to Greene Engraving where he later became Art Director. Don started his own commercial art studio in 1958 and, in addition, formed a print publishing company - Creative Graphics - creating aircraft paintings and prints.
        He stayed with the Air Reserve and Minnesota Air National Guard and was recalled to active duty during the Korean War, serving in the 49th Fighter-bomber Wing. He retired in 1980 as a Major and Command Pilot.
Don has kept busy during "retirement" with many art related tasks, attending seminars, and studying with well known artists.

examples:  All work copyrighted by the artist.