Don-ya’…Designer of the Stars
Don-ya’ is known as Designer of the Stars. This distinction was given to him by the late; and well respected, Hollywood costumer, Kelly Lindquist. It was at that moment he knew his dream was worth every effort he would need to make come true.
Don-ya’s fashion career began early on in his life with the designing of gowns for the famous Barbie doll. His one-of-a-kind creations designed for the doll were later donated and auctioned off for charity organizations, like ‘Youth on their Own’. After winning blue ribbons for these designs, many dubbed him “the next Bob Mackie“.
Among Don-ya’s several projects, the one that is very near and dear to his heart is that of his exact replicas of; legendary Hollywood designer, Gilbert Adrian‘s famous Ruby Slippers from the classic movie “The Wizard of Oz”. The remarkable resemblance to the originals were what inspired Ms. Lindquist to refer to Don-ya’ as Designer of the Stars. During their very first meeting; as she saw the slippers, she was taken back and told him “Oh my gosh! This is Adrian’s work! You are the next Adrian. The next Designer of the Stars!” Presently, his replicas have been given the great honor of being displayed at the hallowed Hollywood Museum in Hollywood, CA.
For four years; prior to meeting Ms. Lindquist, Don-ya’ worked as a tailor and an assistant costume designer for a local theatre house in his hometown of Tucson, Az. From there he ventured to the city of Los Angeles to pursue his first foray into the film industry, as an assistant to Ms. Lindquist on the film “In Her Shoes“. His work there led to additional film projects which include; Nice Guys (High Times), Quinceniera, Pandemic (starring the legendary Faye Dunaway, Renee Taylor and America’s ‘sweet heart’ Tiffany Amber Thiessen); Repo, Final Approach, Fear of Attraction and Dandelion Dharma (www.dandelion dharma.com).
The one thing that is immediately apparent about Don-ya’ is his very loving and generous heart. He possesses a desire to help the community and make a difference in this world. He is sure to lend a helping hand in whatever possible way he is able. His passion is to assist various charities that are close to his heart and to just help people out in general.
“MY VISION IS TO CHANGE THE WORLD ONE GARMENT AT A TIME” – Don-ya’
-www.modelmayhem.com/designerofthestars
-Don-ya’ interviewed: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6336-Orlando-Entertainment-Examiner~y2009m9d20-Hollywood-Designer-Donya-changing-the-world-one-garment-at-a-time
-Follow Don-ya’ on Twitter: www.twitter.com/designerdonya
