Don Faia was born in Palo Alto, California and grew up in a family of artists. He studied art and design at San Jose State University. Faia has worked in the medium of painting for many years, experimenting with varied and unusual materials and processes. In addition to paint, his work has incorporated the use of chemicals, fire, metal leaf, and powdered pigments. He is passionate about the creation of objects that engage the viewer on a tactile and illusionistic level. The full range of Faia’s art is primarily concerned with transformation, inspiring him to observe the interactive process of change in the art and the self.

In addition to a Fine Art career, Faia has had a successful design business, receiving numerous awards for creative direction and graphic design. Faia innovated and developed the original visual brand for Odwalla, and two of his graphic works reside in the Library of Congress' permanent collection. Faia has exhibited in both design and fine art shows since the 1970s. His artworks are held in private collections in the United States. He currently lives and works in the Monterey Bay Area with his wife Michele, an artist/teacher.