Douglas Eugene McClellan

Douglas McClellan, distinguished artist, poet, teacher and arts advocate died peacefully at home on June 28, 2016. He was 94. As a visual artist, Doug was adept in a variety of forms, including drawing and painting, assemblage and computer-generated montage. His art combines technical virtuosity, allusive power, and, always, wit. Doug's work was exhibited in Los Angeles, New York,Washington D.C. as well as locally, and earned him Artist of the Year in Santa Cruz County in 1992. Doug's enthusiasm and devotion to art enriched all who knew him: his students and colleagues at UCSC, where he was Professor of Art and long-term chair of the Art Department; members of the local community with whom he served on the Save Soquel committee and helped create the Anna Jean Cummings park featuring the striking "blue ball" sculpture; and friends drawn not only to his work, but also to his generous and irrepressible personality. In his seventies, Doug expanded his creative range to include poetry. He was a quick study, mastering literary techniques and strategies at a level that enabled him to hold his own in a Poetry Group of long-time, published writers who appreciated, in particular, Doug's ability to infuse his poems with imagery and ideas from the visual arts. Doug McClellan was born in Pasadena in 1921, attended Pasadena City College, served in the Pacific Theater of World War 11 as a camofleur, and after the War enrolled at the Colorado Springs Art Institute where he met fellow artist Marjorie Ness, with whom he immediately? fell in love. Marge and Doug were married in 1947, their marriage a true union of mind and spirit. They lived art together throughout their lives. Marge, Doug and their sons spent a year in Rome, Italy, travelled further in Europe and Turkey, and later spent time in Baja California. At home in Soquel, in an 1880's house on land large enough for an ambitious garden, various animals and a bocce court, as well as a spacious studio, Doug and Marge created a version of paradise brimming with art that welcomed family, friends, artists and art lovers. Douglas McClellan is survived by his wife of 68 years, Marge ; by son Dave and his wife Pam, and their son Guy; and by son Wally, his wife Carol, and their children, Mavis and Henry. The family wishes to thank Hospice of Santa Cruz County, as well as many family and friends. Donations in Doug's name may be made to Doctors Without Borders, the S. C. Land Trust or Hospice of Santa Cruz. A memorial service will take place later this summer.