About The Artist

Derek Donnelly

We’re proud to partner with local artist Derek Donnelly for our 2025 holiday ornament — a vibrant piece inspired by his iconic sunglasses designs and the bright future that awaits the students of Ruth Eckerd Hall.

For Derek, this collaboration is deeply personal:

“It is truly an honor, considering how important and impactful Ruth Eckerd Hall has been to me over my life. My father worked there about 35 years ago as a bartender, and I have since attended countless legendary concerts at Ruth Eckerd Hall.”

A celebrated muralist and advocate for the arts, Derek has been a true partner in our mission to inspire creativity and foster community through the arts. We’re thrilled to collaborate with him on this special ornament — and look forward to more projects to come.

By purchasing your ornament, you’re helping bring the arts to more than 60,000 students each year through Ruth Eckerd Hall’s arts education programs.

Learn more about our programs and ways to get involved here.