Eye Of The Beholder--DONNA SORENSON

Most of us have had a moment when something catches our eye. Just a piece or a part of something that makes us stop for a second and admire, or take a second look to take it in and appreciate it.

That happens to Donna Sorensen sometimes when she looks at motorcycles. When it does, she often turns that moment into a piece of art…art plenty worthy of hanging on the wall in any home, or gallery. Working with pastels (chalk), Sorenson has almost accidentally launched herself into a new career.

“There’s something about the details of different parts of a motorcycle that capture my attention,” she explained. “I prefer to concentrate on the details, looking at a smaller part of a motorcycle and draw that rather than the whole bike. I really like capturing the design elements as art.”

After leaving her job as an architectural designer, Sorenson decided to pursue her interest in fine art. She took a three-day pastels class with renowned Denver landscape artist Bruce Gomez, and made the decision to pursue her passion.

“That’s where my roots are,” Sorenson said, “and Bruce really inspired me. I’ve always had an interest in fine art, and wanted to get back to it. Now, here I am.”

The Denver native started out doing landscapes and nature work, but found herself being influenced by her design background. Add to that her love of motorcycles and riding them, and it’s no surprise she’s creating motorcycle art.

I kept seeing stuff that got my attention,” she said. “I think it’s my graphics background that sent me in this direction. I like the idea of industrial design as fine art. I prefer to get into the abstract elements of the design—the lines, the colors, and reflections in the chrome—and then play with those elements. I like to explore how they play of each other to create what it is I see, and what ultimately is create. This is definitely impressionism. It’s my view of what’s there.”

This spring, Sorenson opened The Werkes Motorcycle Shop on West Colfax Avenue with her husband Jeff. She designed the interior, and now has a lot of wall space to fill.

“It’s my goal to fill that big wall with artwork,” Sorenson said pointing to a wall running the length of the shop. “I think that’d be alright. I love doing this, now I just want to people to see the pieces and enjoy them.”

To that end, Sorenson has set up a small area in the front of the shop s a workspace, and can be found working her craft there. Her originals are for sale, but she hasn’t decided whether she’ll get into making prints available.

I don’t know about that yet,” she said. But I’m looking into it.”

For now, you can find Sorenson and here original pastel artwork at The Werkes Motorcycle Shop, 8427 West. Colfax Avenue in Lakewood.