Clifford McDonald was born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, where he attended Booker High School. McDonald earned a bachelor’s in fine arts from the University of Maine at Presque Isle.

Today he is a painter and the founder of the nonprofit Art 4 change. Many of his pieces focus on culture, community, and positive social change. His goal is to use his gift to make a difference in the community by sending a message of love. Love happens when we accept one another for who we are, regardless of color, gender, or religion.