He began studying art at the Escuela Nacional de Pintura, Escultura y Grabado "La Esmeralda", but unsatisfied with the instruction, helped organize a student strike.
It was unsuccessful and rather than return to school, he decided to go to Morelia to teach.
Donis’ art career consisted of exhibitions both in Mexico and abroad, including an important exhibition at the Museo de Arte Moderno in Mexico City and accepted as a regular with the prestigious GalerĂa de Arte Mexicano.
His teaching career included directorship at the Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez as well as helping to found the Taller de Artes Plásticas Rufino Tamayo in the city of Oaxaca.
He received several recognitions for his work, including membership in the Salón de la Plástica Mexicana.