Canadian artist Bibiana Hooper likes working with acrylics, fluid acrylics, and inks, exploring how these mediums work together in layers on canvas or watercolour paper. We interviewed Bibiana to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art?
I like to paint in the mornings, by 9 am I am in the studio with my second cup of latte. Mornings are exciting, with a promise of new possibilities. When I am starting a new series, I spend a lot of time preparing, planing the concepts and figuring out a colour palette. When I already have a series on the go, I sit with the paintings and look at them contemplating the things I am satisfied with and things that jump out at me and need attention. Music is a must, and a huge part of my creative process, it sets a “Vibe of Energy” I tap into while I paint.
I am inspired by were I live. My family and I moved from the city a decade ago to live in the country with expansive views of vineyards, orchards, lakes, mountains and sky. A dream we had, to live a slower pace of life and made it a reality. My garden is alive 7 1/2 months out of the year which brings me the greatest joy and biggest inspiration. I tend to it, nurture it, and share it. I am constantly making huge bouquets and sending them off for others to enjoy. I have been refining my photography skills and I take lots of photos of the flowers I grow in various back drops and compositions. These photos are my subjects of admiration and infinite inspiration. The other very important influence of my work is interior design. I collect interior design magazines and used them often for inspiration.
2. Tell us more about your art studio!
I was painting in the basement for few years until my husband and I built a studio above our garage in 2019 for the purpose of having my own space to create. When the pandemic hit, it took two more years to complete. Definitely learned to be patient with the process and knowing it will get done one day. I had a lot to do with the design of it and all the finishings. It has great big windows with expansive views off the lake and mountains. The ceiling is high for lots of light to come in and lots of floor space which I was desperate for. I am so grateful to have this space of my own, where I can spread out, listen to loud music, be free and leave a mess if I want to.
3. How did you get interested in your medium?
Over the years I have taken some fundamental art classes, but never explored art and painting in depth until we moved to the country and I wanted to fill the walls with big paintings, but couldn’t afford original art. So, I started to paint. I am impatient by nature, acrylics were the easy choice for their fast drying time and clean up. My first painting was 48x48 that was hung on our living room wall. That painting went and that wall has seen more paintings that I can count! I have been slowly evolving getting some solid techniques down, but I felt I didn’t have my own voice yet.
The biggest creative transformations I went through was when I went for an interview and got accepted in late 2019 into a local collective art gallery. It was a dream come true. I used to walk by that gallery often thinking I am going to show my work here one day! I had all these paintings that seemed like a good starting point, but now it was time to let them go. I wanted to show something new, so I decided to start over. I deconstructed some of my old paintings and re stretched new canvases. I noticed other artist were painting on raw canvases and diluting their paints on social media. That got me really exited! My work got looser and the colour palette simpler. My first season I was with the gallery I sold most of my new series and I got amazing feedback from some respectable artists in the community. I found my own artistic voice and it put a fire in me to keep painting.
4. Describe your style in one sentence!
My style is modern, minimalistic, and poetic.
5. Has your style changed over time?
Yes, my style keeps evolving with every new series I paint. I go between floral/botanical to landscape, otherwise I would get terribly bored. With each new series, I get to learn more about myself and what I am trying to say through my art. Over the past couple of years, I have simplified my colour palette and my style is loosening up more. I am learning to trust my process that I have the knowledge, and skill to bring what I see and experience on to the canvas. If the viewer sees and feels something new they haven’t experienced yet, that is truly magical to me! I stoped worrying about controlling where my art practice goes next. I purely work with intuition and listen to what sparks excitement and joy in me.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My main artistic tools are my raw and gesso canvases, three sizes of flat brushes, jars of fluid acrylic paint, knee pads and my Bose headphones.
7. Do you experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Absolutely! I feel that is part of the experience of being an artist and a way to learn and evolve. Henri Matisse said it well “Creativity takes courage”. It takes a lot of courage to be creative and true to self even when self doubt appears. It’s ebb and flow of composition, shapes and colour. Sometime it comes easy, but sometimes when I push myself to find that balance that’s when the creative block can happen. It shows me my limits. My husband reminds me on regular basis why I paint “For the Joy of it”, and he is right. I let it go, because I know it will pass. And it does, when I feel renewed and rested it’s amazing the flow of creativity seems effortless again.
8. What artists - either contemporary or form history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
Historically : The Forgotten women painters of the Dutch Renaissance (the dark backgrounds with colourful bouquets) - like Clara Peeters, Maria van Oosterwijck and Rachel Ruysch - in a patriarchal society and against all odds this art is still enjoyed around the world today. Georgia O’Keeffe - a modernist artist who painted in precisionism ( reducing the subject to their essential geometric shapes,) like the close up of flowers. Leonardo DaVinci - I visited Le Chateau du Clos Luce in France where he spent his last few years before he died. He was an inventor first then an artist. On the property they had all sorts of models he designed everything from flying machines to armoured vehicle. In the gardens they had massive see-through cloth artworks (The Mona Lisa) hanging amongst the trees. It was breathtaking! I have also read the book “The Night Portrait” by Laura Morelli. The book was about the history of one of his famous paintings “Lady with an Ermine” left a big impression on me and the importance of art in history. Finally, Claude Monet - the founder of impressionist and the key to modernism. I have a book on him and seeing his transformation of his earlier work to his most famous work by the end of his career, encourage me so much to keep painting.
Contemporary: I get a lot out of being around and experiencing the art world first hand in my community and connecting with other artists. I have a beautiful collection of art from local artists that I have met and admired. Through social media there are so many amazing artist right now. Artist in all forms are inspirations to me… Painters, Curators, Designers, Chefs, Musicians, and Writers just to name a few. The ones that had a direct impact on me are: Amy Stewart, Danielle Krysa (aka The Jealous Curator), Bobbie Burgers, Gee Gee Collins, Monica Perez, Rebecca Rebouche, Liza (aka The Curator On The Go), Charles Elias Ingalls (aka CharlesTheFist), Mac Miller, Vanessa Diffenbaugh, Joanna Gaines, Mimi Thorisson and a recent discovery Neri Oxman.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Yes! The pandemic has definitely propelled the art world in a new direction. The old model structure of galleries and museums has forced them to change to a virtual one online, which has been quite successful. It has also opened new possibilities for artists to share their work more visibly and express them selves authentically. I think there is a closer more transparent connection between artist, galleries, curators and collectors. A trend that will continue to evolve.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I am in the middle of a new series that I am working on right now, which consists of 12 pieces. I love working with a cohesive collection that has different versions of the same subject, but different compositions with distinct colour palette. I haven’t shared it yet on social media. I am hanging on to release it in next few months. It feels exciting to take my time in this manner, not rushed and more thoughtful. Being accepted and part of Kefi Art Gallery is an honour and it has propelled me to educate myself more on how to work with social media and improving my website. I am in the process of contemplating how I want my work to be represented now and in the future. When I have couple of more series under my belt I would like to put a proposal together for a commercial art gallery.
]]>Fiona Debell creates beautifully, colour-filled art for clients across the world. Primarily an abstract artist, she believes in the power of ‘now’ - drawing inspiration from many beautiful daily moments. We interviewed Fiona to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
One of my favourite things about being a full-time artist is the freedom to create the way I need to create. My time is my own. Having said that, the key to success for me is discipline. I have 2 distinct work areas - my studio and my office. I usually start in the office - it's where I do the boring admin stuff as well as get creative with my website, social media, and marketing. My ‘reward’ is heading into the studio. It doesn’t always pan out like that, but it is always my aim at the start of the day.
Covid-19 had quite a profound effect on my day. With my family at home, I had to consider where I was and how I was working - plus the first few months of the pandemic left me feeling very creatively flat. Having said that, I feel that this side of Covid-19 has made me more productive and focussed than ever before. I have rediscovered my love of primary colour after a period of very demure and soft work.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My studio is ‘technically’ the entire basement space of my home - though my family will tell you that it tends to creep out into the house (and outdoor space). I love to work on very large-scale pieces and the configuration of the entrance to my studio means I often work on these in the main house - they just will not fit through the door!
I work flat, rather than on an easel - so the composition of each piece is created from above. I generally like my work to be flexible to the collector - so different orientations stimulate different reads of the art. It is important to me that the collector is never bored. Working on a flat surface and being able to walk around my work means I can see each variation with ease and make my own calls on the story I am telling.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium?
I want to concentrate on my Ethereal collection here, as it has truly become my focus in 2021. Having painted with acrylics for most of my life, several years ago I saw a new style of ink in my local art store, and having never seen anything like them before, I was intrigued. I purchased a set and went home to play.
My practice is very intuitive, but I also like to understand my mediums. I educated myself on the products, their uses and attended several courses on application. As with all my art, I needed to work with the medium and make it my own. Initially working on Yupo paper and finishing the work with resin, I progressed to introducing ink into my Royal Robes collection - the purity of the colour is unparalleled. Ultimately, in 2019 I introduced my Ethereal collection - ink on canvas.
Ink is not an easy choice. The main difference between ink and paint is that I am working with dye rather than pigment. Essentially this allows me to create superbly vibrant sets of colour - very pure and deep, using the dilution of the ink to create hues and chromatic effects. Many viewers assume I am working with watercolour as the effect can be similar through the creation of transparent layers that build tone. Ink however is not forgiving - one wrong move and it's all over. Once applied to the canvas the ink cannot be removed. I have to be very sure of each layer as I apply it.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
Fluid abstract.
5. Has your style changed over time?
Absolutely - I think it changes month to month in many ways. Each new piece is a learning experience for the next. How did the colours meld, how can I improve my technique, what was tricky about this piece? Each time I learn something.
I have become very focused this year, moving from subtle, quiet palettes in 2020 to bright primary rainbow hues to inject vibrancy to my collectors’ space. I still love my delicate work, but my general mood is reflected in my palette choice. Today I want to make happy art. My concern is not on the subject, or what someone sees in my art, but in creating beauty. I want to create beautiful art.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
High-quality canvas, latex-free gloves, silicone wedges, and extra-large syringes.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Absolutely. March through August 2020 was a creative desert for me. I could not bring myself to enter my studio. The kids and my husband were home. I was separated from my parents, (who live in the UK) and it greatly affected creative confidence. I felt the lack of any in-person connection was detrimental to my work and it weighed heavily. I am always inspired by my day and the people I meet. That was suddenly gone. However, my artist community was, in general, feeling the same way - and that connection and knowledge got me through.
I feel that as we emerge to a more normal state I am more creative than ever - for me the Maya Angelou quote “You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” is something to remember in times of self-doubt.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
When I was 18 years old I was lucky enough to go to the Tate Modern in London. When I entered the Rothko room I was physically moved. The scale and colour and depth of his work took me by surprise. I remember sitting on a bench and weeping. It would also be remiss of me not to mention the influence of Helen Frankenthaler. Her ‘Soak Stain’ technique where she created a liquefied, translucent effect that strongly resembled watercolour is certainly something I try to emulate. Whilst I use different mediums, the result is very influenced by her techniques and outcomes.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I do. I think many artists have been drawn together in support of one another in a very open way as never before. What I mean by that is honest peer-to-peer encouragement through the removal of competition. There is a feeling of mutual goodwill accompanied by a need to see success for all, at least in my art community. Creating can be very lonely, but the pandemic encouraged us to reach out virtually and figure out how we were going to make sense of our futures. Those who really worked on their business, as well as their art practice, have found new routes to collectors and admirers.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I am developing my Ethereal Collection and challenging myself to work with monochromatic compositions building up depth so that a canvas looks 3D, its true beauty lies in its ‘flatness’.
Shaina Hardie is an abstract artist residing in Toronto, Ontario. Growing up in the Kawartha Lakes and subsequently moving to the city has had a large impact on her style and chosen subject matter. Her paintings showcase a signature geometric elegance with collections inspired by both the natural and urban landscape. We interviewed Shaina to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day starts with coffee, my planner, and a notepad. My planner has space to jot down three things I’m grateful for and then a list of three top priorities for the day. I’m typically working on multiple projects so I decide which one or two need to be the focus for the day.
I like to work in batches. I may focus on social media or marketing/sales efforts one day, and another day I may focus on client meetings or commission mockups, and another day strictly for painting. As an artist, I have multiple ideas running through my head so having a pad of paper around is essential for a ‘parking lot’ of notes to tackle when the timing is appropriate. Inspiration hits me all the time. It could be as straightforward as seeing a beautiful sunset, landscape, or waterscape and feeling the desire to re-create these scenes in my own style. Recently, I’ve been really drawn to philosophical thought which I’m exploring first through journaling and hope to recreate visually. Sometimes, I’ll begin painting without intention and simply be inspired by the process. And then there are my clients who’ve commission me. I’ve been pretty lucky to collaborate with individuals who have an idea and let me run with it. Their ideas are all part of the process so they play a huge role in the inspiration behind the piece.
I believe Covid has impacted all of us in ways we won’t truly recognize until we find our new ‘normal.’ Finding energy and inspiration from the community and the energy of others was taken away from us. The ability to visit a gallery in person and make connections in the industry was non-existent for a full year. The main impact has been related to in-person showing and planning for a solo show which has been delayed. Luckily, being a member-artist with Kefi Art Gallery has been very positive. Transitioning to a virtual gallery with a committed owner has definitely given me a boost during uncertain times. Plus, with the advancement of technology and augmented reality starting to boom, the opportunities for artists in a virtual setting are only increasing.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My studio is based in my home which is very convenient for when inspiration strikes. My studio also occupies the entire lower level so it’s easy for me to separate work and life. I’m fortunate to have some large windows which allow for a lot of natural light which is important when mixing my palette. I’ve also installed bright, neutral lighting to help mimic natural light and take care of some finicky shadows.
Last year I made some investments in my studio, one being a double, height-adjustable desk. This has allowed me to create a separate office space and workbench on the ‘creative’ of the studio. I am SUCH a fan of height-adjustable desks. I love working on my feet and the extra workspace has allowed me to be more productive. Having a nook for office work is important…an artist's job doesn’t simply end with creation. We’re all business owners at the end of the day and I believe it’s important to have a space dedicated to marketing, financials, and operations.
My studio is my creative space. I like to keep it tidy and organized, and really push myself to do a proper cleanup and organization after a session of creation. There is nothing worse than coming into the studio, ready to create and tackle new projects only to find a mess and having to spend your precious, inspired time cleaning up. Or working around a mess…which never ends well! I’ve decorated my studio strategically. One of my first ‘professional’ paintings is hung on the wall beside my easel. “Sunset Raining” is such a special piece to me. Inspired by the warm, beautiful colours of Hawaii, this piece was the first one I decided to share with my audience and it was the piece that made me fall in love with art again. It reminds me of humble beginnings, places that inspire me, and the colour combination energizes my soul.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium?
I was introduced to both acrylic and oil paint when I was very young. Patience is not my best quality so waiting for oils to dry was just too painful and messy for me (although I’m working on learning to enjoy the process). Acrylic was the natural choice for me. I love working in layers of paint that dry quickly and dry—brushing to create depth. The advancement of acrylic paints has come a long way and I make the investment in high-quality brands know for highly pigmented products that won’t break down over time.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
A modern mashup of Impressionism and Cubism: layer colours produced in an angular, geometric fashion.
5. Has your style changed over time?
I’ve always gravitated toward a ‘looser’ artistic style and although I enjoy challenging myself with realistic elements, harsh, rough lines and loose layers seem to bring me a lot of peace. There’s something so beautiful about imperfection. While my style has changed, the biggest change took place relatively early in my career as I developed my ‘shatter technique’. In the last six years, my style has remained pretty recognizable, but small tweaks and experimentation have allowed my it to evolve. There is still much to explore with this style and I can’t wait to see how it evolves over the next six years.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
1. iPad Pro to create client mock-ups and bring their commissions to life before starting the painting process (I can’t stress enough how big of a tool this has been in my practice and ensuring we’re on the same page!)
2. Golden Brand acrylic paint and finishing mediums
3. Various—sized flat-head brushes
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
All. The. Time.
How do I stay positive? I walk away and start doing something else that I love: paddleboarding, golfing with my partner, getting out on the water, or grabbing a coffee/cocktail with friends. If one thing is certain, creative blocks are temporary and so is life. There is a whole world of interesting things to occupy our thoughts and time when our creative juices need refilling. Walking away and focusing your attention on the billion other things is the best thing you can do.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
History: Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Claude Monet, Salvador Dali. With the first two being cubists, I love the angular multi-perspective aspects of their work. I fell in love with the use of colour in Claude Monet’s impressionist work (the brush strokes and the layering) as well as his obsession with recreating the same scene. Dali, well, I simply love his mind and the evocation of his work.
Contemporary: There are too many to list. Social media has allowed me to follow so many talented artists throughout the world and be inspired by their practice. I love following the work of fellow Kefi Art Gallery members and seeing how our unique style creates a well-rounded curation of pieces for collectors. Ashley Longshore, a contemporary Pop artist based out of New Orleans, is a huge inspiration when it comes to my mindset and believing in myself as a female artist. She’s worked hard to make a name for herself and is well known in the art world. I love her passion, cheeky style, and the fact that she is unapologetic about her prices and success. As artists, we often undervalue our work and the impact it has on peoples’ lives. She is a reminder to all artists that this CAN be a career…and a good one at that!
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Yes!
Obviously, more online galleries have popped up as gallery owners looked to reposition themselves during tough times. Many owners and artists learned the importance of social media and targeting clients online. And then there’s the whole working-from-home situation. While some companies have mandated a return to work, many others have considered a hybrid option moving forward, and some have decided to get rid of their offices entirely. This translates to more people working from home and many prioritizing the aesthetic of their home. I’ve had quite a few commission requests for home offices over the past year.
Let’s not forget technology. Most of the world was forced to go virtual. Virtual meetings, events, art shows. We have been able to speak with people across the world daily, visit art shows and see art via virtual shows we may not have seen otherwise. I personally loved participating in and viewing the virtual shows hosted by Kefi. It was such a neat way to be exposed to new artists and their artwork.
There is a lot of exciting technologies coming down the pipeline toward everyday life. Augmented Reality being one of them. Soon, we’ll all have the ability to use AR to ‘place’ and view artwork on our bare walls prior to purchasing. It will enhance the purchase process greatly. With challenging times comes change – you have to keep evolving!
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I have a few commissions in the works with the majority of them being second and third-time collectors. Each piece will be very different with elements of realism in one of them, minimalist abstraction in another, and pop-art abstraction in another. The variety keeps me challenged and I absolutely love working with clients to create meaningful pieces.
As I type this, I’m. On a flight to Vancouver, Canada so you can bet there will be some west coast-inspired works coming down the pipeline. As the world returns to normal, I am planning to host a solo exhibition in 2022. While the theme is TBD, I plan to include a variety of works that will be attractive to both new and seasoned collectors.
Toronto-based artist Gail Blima uses the power of language to make a statement and draw out emotion. First introduced to art at a very young age by her father, he taught her about shading, perspective, and landscape compositions. We interviewed Gail to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
Everyday to me is a creative day. If I’m not in my studio I am thinking about my next painting. I’m inspired by everyday life. I see a phrase on someone’s t-shirt and I jot it down on my phone. So often I say, “I should make a painting with that”. During Covid, my days changed because I wasn’t going out very much. I actually spent more time in my studio and found inspiration from within.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My art studio has evolved over the years. It’s an in-home studio, which means it was at one point my son’s bedroom. He was away at university so I moved in my easel and paints and eventually moved out all his furniture and bed to create my own haven. I’m surrounded by art and everything I need to create. I have a television and a lazyboy chair when I need a break and my computer to stay connected. I love my space; I spend many hours a day in it and really feel it reflects my personality.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium?
I first got interested in mixed media when I was on a trip with my husband and we saw a mixed media painting with words. I said to him, “I could do that”. When I returned home my first attempt was laughable, words were crooked, the background was bumpy, basically, an epic fail. It always looks easier than it really is. I spent a lot of time perfecting my technique and am constantly adding to it. For instance, I started using resin and went from using canvases to wood panels.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I am a mixed media artist who uses the power of language to make a statement and draw out emotion.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My style is constantly changing. At first, I primarily used newspaper comics and words. Then I started working with superhero comics. I started to use resin to finish off pieces and now I have added figures to my paintings, sometimes with words, sometimes without.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My main artistic tools are acrylic paints, wood panels, paintbrushes, newspapers, comics, recipes, game cards (basically anything I can glue down) and glue.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I can’t say I’ve ever really experienced a major creativity block. At the beginning of Covid, I found it harder to get motivated but it passed quickly. I try hard to keep a positive outlook and love it when clients comment on the uplifting nature of my work. I think that keeps me going.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
My all-time favourite artist from history is Van Gogh. I have loved his work and style from my first introduction to his work in high school. I spent hours and hours in his museum in Amsterdam and they practically had to throw me out of there. It sounds hokey but his work just speaks to me. Other contemporary artists that I currently follow are Mel Bochner, Paul Rousso, and Jane Waterous. They all have different styles but they inspire me to try new things and go beyond my comfort level.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I do think the art world has changed due to the pandemic. So much has been moved online and people are spending a lot of time at home and are tired of looking at blank walls. What better way to add positive energy than to add a beautiful piece of art.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
Right now I am working on some new pieces for my music collection. I started adding lyrics to the canvas and then painting the musical artist over it. I’ve done David Bowie and Bob Marley so far. Next, I would like to do my favourite, Sting from the Police. I’ve also started working on some mini panels 6” x 6” which is new for me. Next, I want to start trying acrylic paint pouring for my background.
Caroline Chorazy is a self-taught, Toronto-based abstract artist specializing in acrylics and gold leaf. She draws her inspiration from natural elements in an attempt to capture organic movement and flow in all of her artwork. Her use of gold leaf and/or pigment gives each piece a unique gesture and ability to change appearance or shape in cohesion with the room and light. We interviewed Caroline to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
Art is a release for me. My inspiration usually comes from nature, but each piece takes on a life of its own once I get started. For me, creativity and emotion often blend together. I find my pieces will reflect my sentiments in the moment. Being a teacher and having young children of my own, throw in Covid-19, sometimes it’s hard to find time.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
It wasn’t until recently that I found a dedicated space to call my studio. I used literally every surface imaginable to create. Be it my porch, outside on the deck, the dining room table, the floor, I’ve had to get creative about where I paint (it can get messy!)
3. How did you first get interested in your medium?
Exposure and experimentation. My mother was an art restorer. Growing up I’d see her using gold leaf on frames and I instantly fell in love.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
Naturally eclectic.
5. Has your style changed over time?
I’ve always loved the texture. I’d say my style evolved with experimentation into achieving different textures for the desired outcome.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Freestyle paddle brush and a good texture gel.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
All the time. Life gets busy. Work, family, and responsibilities sometimes take up a lot of space in my head. When that happens, I tell myself it’s ok. Once the tide passes, I’m always super excited to start creating again. Staying positive can be trickier. Especially when you begin to question if the material you are putting out there is inspiring to others.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
I’ve always loved Monet, Klimt, and Van Gogh. The Group of Seven also stood out to me growing up. I remember flipping through and admiring many Impressionist Art books as a child.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I think the pandemic has made it more challenging to gain physical exposure. With lockdowns and restrictions on events, artists have had to find creative ways to have their artwork seen. But I also think it has accelerated the virtual marketplace for emerging artists to participate more freely.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I’m working with warmer tones currently. Adding a bit more texture. I’m excited to see where it will take me!
Elmira-based artist Melissa Passmore uses the power of colour in nature to invoke emotion and reflection of the moment at hand. A lack of background removes additional distraction and places the focus on the movement and light of the petals. She hopes that it highlights the beauty of a single moment in time that is there for us all, if we endeavor to look for it. We interviewed Karen to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to COVID?
My creative day is highly variable. I am able to squeeze in creative time throughout the day as my studio is in my home. Typically I have paintings in many stages of development and will either prep or paint depending upon how much time I have and my creative energy at that moment.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My art studio is in the basement of my home. I am lucky to have a dedicated space where I can leave my supplies out and pick up the work where I left off last. I love the convenience of being in my home to maximize the amount of time that I can spend working creatively. The only downfall is that there is not a ton of natural light. I have also set up a large partitioned area just for the resin process as I often will finish my paintings in this manner and being dust free is an important part!
3. How did you first get interested in your mediums?
I started painting in watercolour and acrylics when I began painting again a few years ago. Having kids and working from home meant that easy clean up is a must. When I was a teen I painted in watercolour and loved every minute of it. I still create with watercolours which I find to be a very meditative creative process.
4. Describe your style in one sentence
My style is bold contemporary realistic florals.
5. Has your style changed over time?
I am continuing to evolve, learn and experiment. I am very interested in textures and I would love to incorporate more of that in my future work.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
I would say angle and flat brushes. I will often only use 1-2 brushes to complete an entire painting. I only work on wood panels in order to facilitate adding a resin finish.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I don’t often feel blocked as my creative time is so precious that I end up really looking forward to it and that will generally get me excited for the process. If I am feeling uninspired or I need a change then I will usually break out my watercolours and new art supplies to just play without expectation. I love the community of other artists that I have found on Instagram and their amazing work will also inspire me to keep going and continue to evolve.
8. What Artists – either contemporary or from history-have had an impact on you and your art practice?
I am inspired and impacted by so many artists that I have discovered through Instagram. When I was initially embarking on my artistic journey I was influenced by Bobbie Burgers. I originally tried some abstract work but felt that I needed to study the form of flowers before I could capture their essence abstractly. I am also inspired by Frida Khalo as she was such a remarkable person and her floral paintings were up close and impactful.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I do think that there has been a shift in the comfort that collectors feel purchasing a piece of art online. That being said I also am really looking forward to in person shows and meeting some of my collectors in person!
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I am currently completing commissions and working on a new body of work. I would love to participate in some in person fairs starting next year and so I will be busy preparing new work for those opportunities.
]]>Karen Jeffrey is an abstract artist working in acrylic, and cold wax, and oil. She is an OCAD U graduate in Advertising/Design and an accomplished Pastry Chef. Actually, her two favorite tools for painting are her pastry palette knife and her plastic bowl scraper. At this moment, her body of work is largely reflective and overshadowed by intuition and the profound feeling of mystery and joy that a painting has the potential to provide. The cold wax and oil medium involves moving through multiple layers to get to the essence of the piece and that's where the final painting remains. We interviewed Karen to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
For the most part, I’m inspired by the people around me, my travels, nature, the ever-changing clouds around me. So many things have changed since Covid-19, no travels, and only one artist in the studio. It can get very lonely, but funnily enough, although we are painting alone, we noticed, we were still being subconsciously inspired by others chosen colours. It was quite interesting to see that appear.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
Gosh, I feel so grateful to have a studio to go to. My space is in Toronto located at Art Alchemy East in Leaside. My space faces south toward the CN Tower, I get to see all the clouds rolling in during the day! There are 5 other artists on the floor and it’s been a dream to be around emerging and experienced artists to engage with, learn from, share ideas and laugh a bloody lot! Covid -19 has changed this a wee bit, as I mentioned above, but this to will pass.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I used to work in Encaustic and one weekend a took a course at The Hive Studio in Alton Mills with cold wax and oil artist, Laurie Skantzos, and that was it for me, I was hooked! I love mixing the cold wax with the oil paints, it reminds me of buttercream, takes me back to my pastry days.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
My style, I’m not sure I have one? I work within a few different series and they are always evolving.
5. Has your style changed over time?
I have changed mediums over time and play around with mark-making using different materials, which that ultimately changes my look and/or feel of my paintings. I don’t feel I have a style just yet, where someone might see a painting of mine and say, “that’s a Karen Jeffrey”.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My pallet knife and my rubble bowl scraper from when I was a working Pastry Chef.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
When I feel really blocked, I go and play! I’ll turn up the tunes, get my paper out, tape it off, and just start laying some colours down and let the painting do its own thing.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
Hmmm… I’d have to give credit to Ann Shier, Laurie Skantzos, Louise Fletcher, Alice Sheridan, and my studio mates at Art Alchemy East to name a few. The first few artists, I took courses with, each one very different in their teaching and each one helped move my art forward. My studio mates, especially Kate Taylor and Lisa Hickey, have taught me a lot about the business and have given honest constructive feedback when asked.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Absolutely it changed. Many artists, galleries, event organizers of shows had to learn very quickly to pivot online and not just on Instagram and Facebook. Organizers of outdoor events/fairs had to move online and create virtual mini-sites for their juried shows. This is probably one of the positive things that the pandemic has given us. It’s forced many of us to learn another language, and it has created a reach beyond any in-person show would provide. I believe, going forward, that the online aspect will be included as part of the outdoor juried shows. Some shows are already offering choices, Online Only or Live, within their applications. A nice choice for someone like me, whose mobility is poor.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I’m working on moving my cloud series forward. I feel it is evolving constantly right now and it is exciting to see. I’d really like to do some residencies and teach when the world starts to open up again.
]]>Anastasia Fedorova is an established Ukrainian-Canadian oil painter based in Vancouver who creates beautiful multilayer oil paintings using the traditional Italian technique impasto. Her oil paintings have many layers of different oil paintings and are very pastous with a thick and rich texture. The main subjects of Anastasia’s oil paintings are conceptualized landscape, cityscape, and floral pieces. We interviewed Anastasia to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
New Covid reality actually allowed me to focus more on my work as an oil painter. I paint every day and when I am not working, I am researching a new subject matter for my next painting. Usually, I draw my inspiration from everything that surrounds me, everything that fills my heart with joy and excitement. Even a common everyday object can inspire me to create a new piece.
I have a specific rule in my practice: I paint only when I feel happy and am in a positive mood. Before starting to create or continue any of my paintings, I always put myself in the right mindset. This allows me to achieve incredibly powerful results in my work. All my clients admire the “contagious” positivism that is always present in my oil paintings.
I was always painting a lot outside and with Covid's situation, it did not change much. I adore nature and love doing my plei-airs in nature because immediate presence is very important to me and to my practice. All my paintings start from nature where I am trying to transport the viewer to the better, sometimes idealized world. I see nature as a teacher, who makes me investigate the color and ephemeral movements of the environment. By using a vibrant color palette and thick loaded brushstrokes I am emphasizing the dynamism and movement in nature.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
I live and work in Vancouver, Canada. And I am very fortunate to have a beautiful studio with “floor to ceiling” windows that give me lots of natural light during my long day work hours. I am absolutely fascinated and obsessed with color, and its ability to fully transform our experiences. All my multilayer oil paintings are filled with vivid and vibrant colors. That is why good light is absolutely crucial to my practice.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I was very lucky to be taught by celebrated Ukrainian Master oil painters for over a decade. That allowed me to really absorb and learn unique skills. I love and primarily use oil paints that stood the test of time and showed their incredible durability and stability, not changing color. No other medium can give me such an incredible variety of colors and tones when I am mixing pigments together. There is only one drawback to oil paints, and it is the price. The high-quality oil paints that I use, are incredibly expensive. I create not just one but from two to six layers of oil paintings in a single work which I methodically apply one on top of another. This unique technique gives my multilayer oil paintings an incredible depth and makes my works so colorful, textural and pastous, that nobody can resist the temptation to touch my painting when he or she sees it.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
My bold impasto technique with brushstrokes loaded with oil paint, and each of my paintings carrying a unique textural quality.
5. Has your style changed over time?
I would say I learned to trust myself more and became more confidant in myself and my genius. I paint almost twenty years now, and the more I create the better results I get. I try to develop and progress every day to become the best possible version of my creative self so that people can enjoy and appreciate my work.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
I love working both with knives and brushes for my oil paints. Almost every painting I create has the presence of knives and brushes. Knife painting allows me to mix oil paints directly on the canvas, which gives my paintings more pure and vivid colors.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Positivism is essential to my work. I am painting only when I feel fulfilled, happy, and in harmony with my inner myself. Many of my art collectors say that my paintings literally shine. And I believe that is because they feel incredible positivism and positive energy that I put into my work.
The fastest and easiest way for me to be in harmony with my inner self and to feel happy is to be grateful for everything that I already have in my life. Even though my life could be hectic from time to time, I try to find some time only for myself in order to pause and reflect. This allows me to see all the beauty and abundance of life, and then to portray this beauty in my works.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
There are many incredible artists that I really admire. But I would say the most impact on me and my art practice had Claude Monet, Van Gogh, Lucian Freud, Jan van Eyck, and Albrecht Durer. These great artists came from different times but each of them taught me invaluable lessons that I use in my everyday practice.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
The art world has definitely changed due to the pandemic. And while it is obvious that last year became a challenging one for everybody, I believe that there are some great opportunities appeared as well. Firstly, art became even more important now than ever before. Art always helped us to express and understand the world around us, while at the same time allowing us to process our experiences. Historically, artists have always been the tool to deliver those experiences. Therefore, I believe that the need for artists is rapidly increasing.
Secondly, with the rise and development of technology, it became easier both for artists and for collectors to sell and buy art. I believe that the pandemic became a catalyst for the online art world to develop rapidly and become more advanced in order to satisfy even the most sophisticated collectors.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
Right now I am working on a series of paintings devoted to love and our life paths. Obviously, love is one of the most important things in the world. I believe that love is the shortest path to self-discovery, love gives us meaning and purpose in life, love makes us inspired, love brings us joy and happiness, love teaches us compassion and gratitude, and this list is endless.
My series devoted to love and life paths include twelve oil paintings which are showcasing night scenery "Night of Love", "Night of Passion", "Mysterious Night", "At Night" and day scenery in paintings "Road of Love", "Gentle Love", "Daizy", "Velvet Paths", "Blue Paths", "Yellow and Happy", "Path of Hope" and "Winter Paths". With these artworks, I wanted to remind my viewers about the importance of love in our life. Observing the paintings, you can see different paths, which are allegories of our paths in life. Everybody is experiencing life differently. The only thing that always remains constant for all of us is love; it is the most important thing in the world. We all are taking different paths in life, sometimes through wind and snow, through challenges and struggles. Luckily, all of the paths we take eventually lead to love.
My future series of multilayer oil paintings will be devoted to memories. I believe that our memories are essential in our lives because they allow us to grow and learn to be a better person. Memories help us continue progressing forward teaching us very important life lessons that we can use and apply in the future. And what I love the most about memories, is that they teach us to be truly present in the moment which I explore a lot in my works. Often we do not value what we already have, we do not appreciate moments we are in right now until those moments become memories. And while memories are an essential part of our lives, I also want to remind my viewers about the importance of living in the present moment.
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Tamanda Elia is an impressionist painter who lives and works in St. Catharines, Ontario. She primarily works with oil paint but varies her subject from landscape to still life. After many years she is now an International artist selling works to private collections in Europe, Australia, the USA, and Canada. We interviewed Tamanda to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed to COVID-19?
On a weekday, I wake up and see my husband off to work, get my son ready for school (special needs program), dogs walked, and my daughter off to work, and then after all the mom stuff is sorted, I head downstairs to my studio. Since COVID, I only have four hours to paint if I’m lucky without any interruptions. I try to do all my photo shoots, reference collecting, sketches, and preparations ahead of time (in the evenings, on weekends) because I want to be able to paint continuously. I like to warm up my painting skills with a small “daily painting” of an object or two (these compositions are all preplanned ahead of time). In the last two hours, I work on larger canvases. I like to have a few on the go at one time so I can choose which one I work on and not feel restricted.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My studio space has changed locations throughout the house and has landed most recently, in the basement family room. Much needed space took priority over natural light from windows. Everything I need is in this space, art supplies, picture rails for wet work, and lots of storage room. It’s great. I do have a tendency to move everything around but I have lots of storage and just enough tabletops to get by. I really try hard not to look too closely at the mess because I will start focusing on redesigning the space instead of my work. What I love best about my space is all my art supplies. I cannot have enough brushes, or paint, or solvent, or canvases. I will use it all eventually, until then, I am well stocked.
3.How did you get interested in your medium(s)?
I tried oil paint when I was a teenager and then again in University, it was mandatory. I never really questioned it. It was just what you used. When I think about it now, I like oil because you can change, correct, and manipulate it easier than other paint types. It is much more forgiving. I love the texture and colours that you get from oil. I have been using oil paint for so long that whenever I smell it now, whether in an art gallery or just enter a studio, it smells like home.
4.Describe your style in one sentence.
I paint colourful paintings with lots of movement and energy in an impressionistic style. The subjects may change but the ambition to create emotional visuals comes through no matter what the study might be of. My philosophy to my art is to put everything into it.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My style has changed over the years in both application and subject. My painting style has stayed impressionistic but I know that I spend less time ‘correcting’ during the painting process. I feel my painting skills have gained strength as I can render more realistic objects. I used to always gravitate to figurative work and now I gravitate to still life and landscape. I realized that objects and places can give off a much stronger atmosphere and emotional energy than people and their expressions. To me, placement of objects, energy from lines, and colours are much more exciting than just a raised eyebrow.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Oil paint - I like to try different paints but right now I am using Winton and M. Graham oil.
Brushes - I use flats the most, then brights and rounds only for direct lines and details.
Canvas - This has changed over the years but now I use gallery double frame for large art, regular profile for smaller.
Medium - Linseed oil/walnut oil /odorless solvent – I keep playing around with ratios to see what is best.
Glass palette - This is imperative. It cleans up like a dream and lasts for years.
Lots of jars - I have a system where I use a small amount of odorless solvent for each session. I let it sit for three days after to settle, then pour the top cleaner in clean jar for a different session. In the meanwhile, I have other jars on the go or waiting. It is a lot of small jars but it allows me to keep squeezing as much of the solvent out as possible.
Varnish - Matte varnish.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I’m always being interrupted and it took years for me to figure out techniques to get myself back into the right groove. My day is scheduled around everyone else’s so I make blocks of time for everything. My painting gets a block somewhere always, it may get pushed around when things come up, but I always make time.
Changing things up. I try not to do the same thing every day. I paint a variety of paintings at the same time, this way if I’m really not in the mood to paint that foggy landscape, I can work on a whimsical daily painting instead. Having a terrible painting day? I stop and start researching, sketching out thumbnails, or online to see painting tutorials. If that doesn’t work? Going for a walk somewhere new and taking photos can work too. I think the main aspect is to keep trying.
8. What artists – either contemporary or from history – have had an impact on you and your art practice?
Of course, the Impressionists like Manet and Cassatt had a profound influence, as well as the Group of Seven but for me it’s the contemporary artists that give me more impact. The internet showed me a lot of contemporary artists that are out there currently making great work. I think the artist that made the most impact on me was Carol Marine. I really love her painting style but I think what I was more impressed with was how she, and as I have since learned, many other artists have also created a full-time career for themselves. It gave me the confidence to put myself out there.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I think the internet has changed life for all of us but for artists, we have the ability to put our artwork out there for all to see. Exhibits from galleries and online shows can reach further than ever before. With more people staying at home more often, the computer becomes more and more important in our lives. It’s the right place to be featured.
10. What project are you working on right now? What will you like to do next?
I’m finishing off a few things right now but I will soon be starting on organizing things for next year. I know I want to explore roses as well as a few landscapes I have lined up.
Amber Hahn is an abstract mixed media artist based in Toronto, Canada. Growing up, she was always drawn to creative outlets; painting, drawing, and writing. A five-year cancer survivor, Amber uses art to navigate the many emotions she experienced in her life journey and is imagined through themes of love, hope, strength, empowerment, reinvention, and discovery. Her abstracts bring a sense of calm, with soft flowing colours, bright lines, and a splash of brilliant, shimmering gold. Amber’s mission is to embody the spirit of happiness and light through her work, in order to elicit the strongest of emotional bonds with her viewers. We interviewed Amber to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day is more like a creative night. I work full time in a digital media role, which funnily enough is focused a lot on creative as well. I find I focus best and feel most creative in the evenings. I throw on my favourite playlist, pour a glass of wine, and get to work. My days definitely changed due to COVID-19, both for the good and not so good. My four-year-old son was home with me while I was working full time. It was not easy, but I did embrace the positive in all of it. Extra time with my boy to create and play together. He loves to draw, colour, and paint with me, and I hope it will always be an important part of his life too.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My dream is to have my own studio, but for now, I have my own art “room”, which I like to call my studio. It’s bright with a lot of natural light (which is necessary to catch those beautiful gold shimmering golds in my photos!). It’s my favourite place in my house. Most of my days are spent in this room, I just love the way it makes me feel, bright and happy!
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I’ve always loved painting with acrylic. I started in my teens and it’s a medium I have always come back to. Alcohol ink is still a bit new to me, but I saw other artists I admire on Instagram creating with it, so I thought I’d try it out. I love the way it flows, the way the colours dance and stain to create new colours and shapes. The gold adds so much shine. It’s extremely eye-catching and I love that I’m getting more comfortable with it.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
Soft and calming, embodying the spirit of happiness and light.
5. Has your style changed over time?
When I started painting more seriously, I was into really bright colours, a lot of contrast and black. My pieces were statement pieces. Looking at my Instagram page you can see how light and neutral my style has become. It’s a lot more “airy” and soft. I still like to dabble in some bright colours, but it’s not as drastic as before. Now that the cooler weather is here, I’m starting to add more blacks. You’ll still find those soft neutrals and gold though!
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Brushes, droppers, catalyst wedges, sponges, the list goes on! I love the different markings each tool provides.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Yes! I often experience artistic blocks. In fact, I experienced a long one soon after I had my son. Probably from the lack of sleep? I find when I’m feeling this way, meditation, working out, going for a walk in the sunshine, helps me push through it and feel inspired again. Looking through my Instagram feed helps too. Seeing all of the other talented artists that I admire and what they are creating, it’s so inspiring!
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
From history - Andy Warhol and his bright pops of colour, Van Gogh’s beautiful brush strokes, and Matisse’s soft curving lines.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I think there is even more appreciation for art and the beauty it brings. We are all kind of “stuck” inside these 4 walls and I think it makes us really stop and look at the little things. The details. Personally, I want to be surrounded by things that will bring me happiness and calm in this time of uncertainty. I think it’s also connected us in a way we didn’t expect. I think that this has changed the art world, but for the better.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
Currently, I’m working on a couple of commissions. I’d love to work on a larger scale next and also on a collection. I’m excited to see where this journey will take me.
Amanda Wand is a Toronto-based visual storyteller that believes in the power of process through creation. As an abstract intuitive painter, she uses art as a way to navigate the many complex emotions of our world with the intention to invite others to process their own emotions through her work. She does not plan her pieces instead, she allows her vulnerability to lead the way. This process creates authentic works representing the full spectrum of human emotion. Every piece is an extension of her subconscious and they all hold certain energy and message. Her work is influenced by how people treat others and themselves. It explores concepts of connectivity, identity, and self-worth. We interviewed Amanda to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day is always flexible. I allow myself the freedom of not structuring painting time. I create very quickly so I am never worried about not finding the time to paint. Although typically I allow myself a slow morning with a great cup of coffee, then I will start to think of things that inspire me while I prepare an area to paint. Sometimes I will paint for hours getting lost in it. Other times it will be faster and then I will take the time to really look at the piece to figure out it's message. I am inspired to make art because it helps me figure out how I am feeling, it provides me with a way to connect to myself and then others with honesty and vulnerability. I create art because it feels good and I know it is my true purpose and calling.
My creative day has changed due to Covid-19 and now that it is September I feel I am settling into a better routine and feeling more grounded in my creative days. A big part of this is because I recently moved out of a studio space that I loved and now I have a home studio. So there was a period of transition in slowly realizing this was the right decision, grieving what once was, and now I have fallen in love with my home studio and am very grateful for how it has propelled my art style forward.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My home studio! Oh, it is so wonderful to have space, a full room (it was a spare bedroom) at home to paint in! My old studio space was an hour transit ride away. So being able to paint whenever is really lovely. My space has a closet full of finished work, a long table for painting on, and an awesome bright yellow door that leads outside.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
When I was 16 years old I did my first ever abstract painting in my bedroom. And I remember painting a heart where one half was a question mark and the other half was a flame. I felt like it was the most honest thing I have ever created and from that moment on I loved painting and was always drawn to abstract work as it allowed me to fall into flow and not stress about being perfect. I minored in Visual Arts in University and always preferred creating abstract works instead of representational pieces.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I am an intuitive abstract painter that uses vibrant colours and brush strokes to create art about the interconnectedness of our world.
5. Has your style changed over time?
Totally! My style has changed multiple times over the years. I have a great little highlight on my IG that goes through the years.
Because I am an intuitive artist, I end up painting what I am feeling and it helps me process whatever is happening in my life and in society at large.
In 2013 I had more bold colour blocked work
2014/15 I was more influenced by water and loved dripping paint down the canvas.
2016 I painted really dark, a lot of blacks and very intense work.
I started to lighten up in 2017 with a lot more vibrant colour and Pollock-esque paint splatters.
Then in 2018, I brought together the bright colours and bold thick details. I also painted faces for a few months and realized they were helping me understand different parts of my identity. After the faces came a big shift in style for me when I started using a lot of water on wood panels, this opened me up to a whole new dimension.
In 2019 I started combining all my techniques and started to fall more and more in love with pink and yellow.
in 2020 I have started to work more with soft colour palettes and my work feels calmer and less chaotic.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Acrylic Paint
Paint Brushes of all sizes
Palette knives
Palette
Wood Panels
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I do experience creative blocks and I used to try and push through to try and paint but I never like what I create during those times. So I try to use it as a time to rest or to collect inspiration to use later. I try to stay positive by focusing on other interests outside of art or try to do another productive work task that isn't painting. I now think creative blocks are just messages for me to rest or to step away and trust that when the inspiration hits again it will be magical and usually a new style emerges.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
My favourite artist is Frida because I love her bold attitude to living her life. Artistically we are not the same however I admire and love her story. I am always more drawn to the emotional connection the artists have to their work than the actual work itself.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Yes, I do think it will change. I cannot say how exactly but my hope is that the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement will help open people's eyes to the inequalities in the art world. I hope it will challenge people to push for more inclusivity and wider representation of different identities. I hope the pandemic helps consumers have a different appreciation of art, valuing it more than non-essential. I do hope the events of 2020 will open more hearts and minds and create a ripple effect of change that benefits all artists!
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I have a few exciting ideas to bring to life this Fall/Winter! Don't want to give away any spoilers but I am looking into other products/items that my art can live on!
]]>1. How does your creative day look and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day always starts with a cup of coffee (I’m not a morning person, haha). I’m able to get inspired as soon as I step into my studio. I typically have several paintings on the go (up to six at a time) to enhance productivity and avoid watching paint dry. Having my two young children home 24/7 has definitely been an adjustment. Thankfully, my husband also works from home and we can relieve each other throughout the day!
2. Tell us more about your art studio?
In search of a larger studio space, I moved from Toronto to Oshawa 6 years ago. I renovated my 600 square foot garage into my dream studio. It is an open, well-lit space with a slanted corrugated steel ceiling reaching 14 feet on one side (perfect for spinning large works). I have two wall easels set up— spanning a total of 32 linear feet.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I started using drips back in 2008 to achieve natural/organic energy in my work. At that time, I used paintbrushes and tape to create more concrete, architectural elements. I began to enjoy working with drips more than brushes and tape. As I became more experienced with using gravity to direct the flow of paint, the paintbrush became an unnecessary touch-up tool. It was then I realized with more planning, calculating, and layering I could eliminate the use of a paintbrush altogether. This became a challenge that took three years to master. In 2011 I created my first brushless painting.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I’m a drip painter, with a twist — I bring nature back into the city using squeeze bottles and gravity.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My style has evolved over the past 12 years. My early work was more loose and abstract since I was learning how to work with drips. Over the years, my work has become more controlled and representational. Now, I’m trying to loosen up a bit, haha. I want to find the perfect balance between spontaneity and control while combining nature with the city. My work wrestles with these opposing forces, just as my own optimism wrestles with reality.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
I use squeeze bottles filled with liquid acrylic paint to build each painting from the ground up with hundreds of lines and dots. The architectural aspects are highly controlled while the natural elements embody the spontaneous liquid impulse. I rotate my canvas to direct the flow of paint and use a level to help predict where each drip will fall. To create more organic effects, I use a water spritzer.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I like to travel (or right now, look at my travel photos) for inspiration. I explore natural and urban areas, take photos, and return to my studio to get it all down on canvas. I am in love with tall buildings, trees, and waterfalls. A few trip highlights include a 4-day hike across the Grand Canyon in Arizona, spending a night in a tent in the Sahara Desert in Morocco, and hiking to Machu Picchu in Peru. Once inspired, the act of creating in my studio keeps me positive—I love what I do.
8. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I have seen changes and expect to see more in the future. People are spending more time at home, investing in home-improvement projects and beautifying their spaces. Galleries are improving their websites and new online galleries are popping up. Collectors are purchasing work without the expectation to view it in person. Augmented reality apps are in demand — helping people view images of art on their own walls. Despite all the travel restrictions in place, art can still be shipped and enjoyed all around the world.
9. What project have you worked on recently?
I’ve recently finished my first public art mural in partnership with the Robert McLaughlin Gallery and I HAD SO MUCH FUN! I’ve wanted to create a mural for years, but I couldn’t wrap my head around how to drip one without spinning the wall. It was time to take a risk and I’m so glad I did! You can check out the finished 14’ x 18’ mural at the Oshawa Centre Mall.
I’ve recently also had a solo art exhibition titled “Futures” at Wall Space Gallery in Ottawa. In this show, I questioned what’s to come. I merged dense city centers with forests and melting sea ice to create alternative visions of the future. Some are more optimistic than others—it’s up to us which future becomes our reality.
I had two solo, public art exhibitions lined in summer 2021 (at the Museum of Dufferin and Art Gallery of Northumberland). Both shows focused on the current effects of climate change in Canada. For years now, I’ve aimed to create paintings that portray an optimistic future where nature and the city coexist in harmony. Despite my intentions, some people would look at my work and see the opposite—an apocalyptic world, void of people and traffic. A place where nature has gone too far. Hearing everyone’s unique interpretations has started to push my work in the other direction. Forests are burning, lands are flooding and glaciers are melting. We need to have these important conversations about our future and understand the urgency of climate change.
Raquel Roth is a Halifax-based acrylic artist and is also a dental clinical instructor at Dalhousie University. Originally from Trinidad, she is inspired by bold colours and the beauty of natural elements, especially florals. She attributes this largely to the vibrancy of island life growing up with its yearly Carnival celebrations. We interviewed Raquel to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
I mainly paint at night when the house is quiet and I can totally focus on the painting process. I can lose myself for hours in front of the easel and It becomes my happy place to recharge at the end of the day. My inspiration often starts with a particular colour palette that I feel like exploring and I really feel that florals are especially suited to the bright and bold colours that I favour. When COVID-19 came to Nova Scotia and everything was shut down, it was an opportunity to really concentrate on the marketing and business side of my painting career. The painting was a welcome activity to escape from the stress of all the unprecedented, abrupt changes to our daily lives as a result of coronavirus.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
I have taken over a small office and a guest room on the upper floor of our home as a studio space. It is wonderful to have a dedicated space to be able to go up and paint whenever I have free time.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I discovered my love for painting when I took an introductory course to acrylics at NSCAD a few years ago. I found it to be a relaxing and almost magical experience mixing up batches of yummy colours!
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I would describe my art style as joyful, colorful, and whimsical... with an emphasis on florals.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My painting style has definitely evolved over time. My brushwork is more dynamic and confident and I have started exploring new colour palettes and utilizing texture and other mixed media applications in my work. I am constantly looking for new ways of implementing techniques that I have been exposed to through various online and in-person workshops.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My medium is acrylics at the moment. Although I have a wide variety of brushes, I find that flats are the ones I always seem to pick up. TriArt retarder, which is made in Canada, is also invaluable to help me achieve soft edges and blending with fast-drying acrylics.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Because of the relatively recent start to my artistic career, I have been lucky in that I haven’t encountered any creative roadblocks yet. Everything still seems so new and exciting - I have many unfinished canvases, simply because I need to get all my ideas out before I forget them! And it’s not hard to stay positive and inspired when I paint flowers. There are infinite hues to choose from and combine, and so many beautiful varieties of flowers to paint. Flowers just make me happy in general, so I don’t find much of a problem being inspired.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
In terms of historical paintings, Monet’s classic water lilies painting has always been one of my favourites, along with his impressionistic style. One contemporary artist who has had a big impact on my style is Nancy Medina, a floral artist based in Colorado Springs. Her whimsical peony paintings and general use of bold colour first inspired me to paint the beauty of flowers.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
The pandemic has certainly had a dramatic impact on the art world since galleries and exhibitions around the world have had to close for several months. Online shopping for art has become more popular as a result, which I feel makes it harder for new, emerging artists to be “discovered” among the deluge of art available online. I am so grateful to Liza at Kefi Art Gallery for helping to expand my social media presence to bring my art to a wider audience.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
Although I am passionate about florals, I would like to expand into more landscape and seascape painting in the future. I’d also love to incorporate more metallic and iridescent paints in my artwork. I do love a little sparkle and bling! Thanks for taking the time to read more about my artistic journey. Take care and stay safe everyone!
]]>Marta Stares is an artist and educator interested in painting the outdoors, especially the Northern Ontario landscape. She works primarily in oils and uses bold, vibrant colours in her work. Marta currently teaches Visual Art at the high school level in Peel District School Board, where she co-organizes Peel’s annual student art exhibition called Walk the Art. We interviewed Marta to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. What does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
A typical day in my day in the studio always starts with a cup of tea. I don’t get to painting right away because I like to spend a lot of time looking over source material, pin up my photographs on the walls or spread them out on the floor, and think about what I will make… Then I get into my painting clothes. There was a time when every piece of clothing I owned had oil paint on it so now I have a few designated outfits. Once I am in my painting clothes it means business. I am either stretching canvas, priming, or mixing paint. It helps get me in the zone and makes painting a lot faster once I’ve created a colour palette. I usually work on multiple canvases at a time because there’s a drying period between layering oil paint.
I love to listen to podcasts while I paint. When I really need to focus I’ll play my favourite episodes on repeat just to have some background noise. My practice hasn’t changed too much during the pandemic. There are still many cups of tea. In the early days, I was super motivated and finished a large piece pretty quickly. As we became more isolated there were days I felt less motivated and it stayed this way: a bit of up and down. I am starting to take some of that pressure off myself. We are living in a strange time so I think it’s ok to give yourself permission not to be productive all the time.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
I love my studio space. It’s often messy and filled with all my supplies, discarded painting palettes, and photos of places that mean a lot to me. Being surrounded by these images helps me to capture a specific memory. My studio also holds dozens of paintings, many of which I don’t like, but altogether they are an important reminder of personal progress made over the years.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I first tried oil paint in high school, when it was still acceptable to work with traditional oils in a classroom setting. I loved the depth of colour (even though I was probably using really cheap paint), blending ability and how slow-drying it was, which meant that I could continue working the paint for much longer. I haven’t stopped painting with oils since. I dabble in acrylic occasionally, but the process is not nearly as flexible and the outcome is never as luscious as I prefer.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
Just one? That’s so hard! Ok, here we go…
My landscape paintings are often framed from the canoest’s perspective, communicating the energy and capturing the mood of each place using bold brush strokes and vibrant, saturated colours.
5. Has your style changed over time?
Yes! In fact, I think it’s still changing because I’m not sure I’ve narrowed down a specific style. In art school I’ve done quite a bit of portraiture, especially working from a live model. I hated landscape and developed an interest for it only after working at McMichael. Being surrounded by Group of Seven paintings really got me to see and appreciate landscape on a whole different level. I’ve recently started to incorporate the figure into landscape and will spend more time exploring where that takes me.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Brushes of all sizes in natural and synthetic bristle. I have more brushes than I can count but I could probably use a few more.
Oil paint, mineral spirits, linseed oil, and various mediums. Lately, I’m loving Neo-Megilp from Gamblin. It’s a soft gel that increases transparency, flow and has a very silky feel.
Greytone disposable palettes. Super handy for accurately mixing colour. I go through many of them but I often love the colour combinations so much that I keep them.
Varnish. The most satisfying part of the process is seeing your colours become even more enhanced.
Cotton rags like old t-shirts or towels. Great for wiping off excess paint from brushes and for clean up.
Large plastic (yogurt) containers with lids. I have a system for washing brushes that saves time and money. One container with solvent for first wash, another for the second wash. After a day or two, all the paint will settle to the bottom which means you can pour out the clean solvent into new containers and start again.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Of course. I think this is a normal part of being an artist so I try not to get overly discouraged by it. When I’m feeling stuck or unmotivated to paint, I gently remind myself that it’s a temporary phase, that it will pass. I try not to force creativity because nothing good comes out of it. Instead, I focus on activities that help recharge my batteries, like going for a hike, spending time in nature or with family and friends.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
So many amazing artists out there it’s hard to choose.
Currently, I am really inspired by Kim Dorland. I love everything he does. He paints landscapes but also explores the human psyche - he’s got this signature way of caking on oil paint. It’s so good you just want to eat it.
I also enjoy Julie Himel’s recent works. She paints very expressive landscapes using painterly marks and drips.
Another artist I admire is Steve Driscoll who paints vibrant Canadian landscapes with urethane on the plastic panels. His works are amazing to see in person, you could easily get lost in them, especially the large ones.
When I worked at McMichael Canadian Art Collection I rediscovered Tom Thomson's works, especially his small plein air sketches of winter in the woods. With just a few brush strokes he was able to capture a warm feeling - you could almost hear the quiet of winter. You don’t even realize how many pinks, purples, and blues there are in the snow until you look at a Thomson sketch. He was an excellent colourist.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Historically, some of the most important art has emerged as a result of social/political unrest or difficult times. I think that uncertain times force people to get even more creative and inventive so I am optimistic that there is an artistic upside to this pandemic. We’ve already seen positive environmental changes and a reduction in pollution as a result of a global shutdown. It’s exciting to see the positive ways in which the art world will evolve.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I recently returned from a camping trip in Pukaskwa National Park feeling very recharged and inspired to paint. Pukaskwa is situated along the rocky shores of Lake Superior: picture towering cliffs, windswept spruce, secluded sandy beaches, and lush boreal forests. I was in love! Took an excessive amount of photos of the forest. The way the setting sun peeked through moss-covered trees - it was so enchanting. I think my next series will feature the magic of the boreal forest.
]]>US-based contemporary artist Monica Shulman believes that all human experiences and emotions are important and valuable. She aims to make art that is relatable to viewers in a contemplative and personal way, as she created work that is profound, penetrating, and evocative, very much corresponding to ourselves and how we live. We interviewed Monica to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
As an Artist, I’m tasked with translating my daily observations into tangible work. I’m inspired by everything - my kids, nature, the mighty Hudson River near where I live and work, my travels, my childhood, my family, current events, news.
I’m a planner by nature but I enjoy trying to balance my time between mapping out my ideas and making plans and allowing myself the freedom to make whatever comes to mind in a given moment. I like to feel like I’m in control so giving that up is a big part of my art practice because some of my best work happens when I let myself be free. After I get my kids off to school my day usually begins with some form of exercise before heading out to my studio where I typically start by working in my visual journal to warm up. Some days I only create in my journals and sketch or write out my ideas, other days I get right to my projects and try to pick up where I left off the day before. At least once a week I’m on my computer doing the necessary (but often painful for me) business of being an Artist - emails, invoices, submitting my work to calls, research, networking, social media, etc.
My creative day changed drastically during quarantine. With my kids at home, I’ve had to adjust my entire schedule as I am committed to putting my family first and doing my work where ever I can fit it in. It is not ideal at all but I know it’s temporary and my kids need me now more than ever. I brought a lot of materials from my studio so I could work at home but they just sat unused and instead I started to experiment with new mediums like oil pastel, coloured pencils, pens, ink, and soft pastels. I didn’t feel comfortable using my oil paints in my home studio bc it isn’t as well ventilated so I pushed myself to try new things and just let myself create for the sake of creating. I started drawing more and making much smaller work. I’ve also been experimenting with different styles.
2. Tell us more about your art studio
My studio is my happy place. I work in an old converted warehouse that is one of its past lives was a brewery on the banks of the Hudson River just 25 miles north of New York City. My huge windows face the river and I’m constantly inspired by my view.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
My work and evolution as an artist have always been a work in progress. I’ve always been open to trying new things both as a photographer and a painter. After years of focusing on my career as a photographer, I returned to my first love...painting. My shift back to oil paints after years of abandoning that practice grew out of boredom and feeling too limited by working with acrylics. I missed the texture of painting with oil and that feeling of waiting for layers to grow on top of themselves and having to dry before moving on. Working with oil pastels now gives me a lot of flexibility and I like mixing all the various mediums, experimenting, and having fun.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I’m not a very good editor so one sentence is too hard! I create abstraction that feels liberating and without a fixed narrative. I use colour, sculptural layers, and gestural strokes to tell stories - my own and those of the viewer.
5. Has your style changed over time?
Of course! I think change is the only constant and I prefer to face the uncertainty of change and growth to staying in one place. I hate feeling bored and like I’m not challenged. It’s really hard to identify every significant moment and to assess my growth and evolution as an Artist. My art has always been a work in progress and I think it’s because I never really let myself get too comfortable with anything I’m doing. I let myself go through phases and then go back to old styles and build upon that. I try not to look at things in my artwork as “mistakes” (I have made plenty of them both personally and professionally) even though I go back and don’t always love my older work and choices. I never throw anything away and I like to keep older work so I can see the progression and the growth. I date everything and I constantly narrate my own work in my journals.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My eyes and my open mind are my main artistic tools. I always try to push myself to see and think differently. I also can’t live without my art books, my journals, my Sakura pens, my Gamblin oil paints, and my Sennelier oil pastels. In general, I don’t know what on earth I would do if I didn’t have dickblick.com.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Absolutely! I don’t think it’s possible to be an Artist without experiencing creativity blocks. I love to read and turn to books when I’m feeling uninspired. I also spend a lot of time on museum websites and Instagram to look for inspiration. When I’m feeling blocked I also turn to human interaction. Before Covid, I would go to NYC for the day to just walk the galleries or go to a museum by myself. I love to be alone to have time to think but I also love being with my friends and family who fuel me and inspire me. I love to get outside to hike with my dog and my kids. I also love to take my kids to museums to see art through their eyes. I also sometimes just take a break, let myself sit in a moment, and accept the creative block. They never last forever and usually big ideas are born when we stop and take a minute.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
SO MANY! This list is endless and not complete... Joan Mitchell, Elaine de Kooning, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, MC Escher, Judy Chicago, Amoako Boafo, Jamie Beck, Ian Michael, Nan Goldin, Cindy Sherman, Willem de Kooning, Lee Krasner, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Frank, Richard Avedon, Elliott Erwitt, Vivian Meier, Sally Mann, Mary Abbott, Kara Walker, Edgar Degas, Cecily Brown, Andrew Salgado, Jose Parla, JR, Kehinde Wiley, Teresita Fernández. I think it’s so important to look at and study the work of other Artists--especially when that person’s work is different from your own.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
YES. I hopefully think people outside of the art world see more than ever the true value of art. Art contributes to life on a daily basis - literature, film, music, fine, art, photography are all ways that you can connect with yourself and with the outside world in a moment of solitude and when we’ve been forced to stay indoors and isolated. Art is so healing. I also think the way that we engage and interact with art has necessarily and will continue to change with huge art fairs being canceled due to social distancing guidelines. It’s been inspiring to see the innovative ways that brands, art dealers, fairs, artists, and galleries have been leveraging their social media channels to show work in new ways. Out of necessity new ways of engaging with, buying, sell and sharing art are being born. I also think that the pandemic coupled with the very necessary call for justice and civil rights for the Black community is bringing about significant changes to the art world. Crisis often triggers change and that’s more clear now than ever.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I’m working on a few different things including updating my website and figuring out ways to get my work in front of more people. I’m always thinking about networking but mostly right now I’m really excited about getting back to my studio and taking all the new work that I’ve been making at home and translating it into larger pieces. I’ve been forced to slow down and while I was in a panic at first with multiple show cancellations and other professional disappointments, it’s actually been great for me emotionally to take a breath and a step back and put everything into perspective.
]]>Jodi Chapnik is a Toronto-based fine art photographer constantly watching, analyzing, and absorbing what is happening around her in order to consciously create majestic masterpieces. To get inspired, she enjoys traveling the world and finding unique subjects and moments to capture for eternity. For over 25 years, Jodi Chapnik has been using her keen eye for detail to create awe-inspiring art. Her ever-evolving photography collection of landscapes, unique portraits, and close-up object imagery invite people to explore the infinite stories behind her work. Whether she is creating a scene with compelling props, photographing a single object, or using her impeccable timing to catch that perfectly fleeting moment, she thrives on sharing her observations and interpretations of the world around us. We interviewed Jodi to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creativity varies from day to day. Some days I feel very inspired. On these days, I will either be hunting for treasures in stores or online, planning a photo shoot or taking photographs in the studio or outdoors. During the Covid-19 quarantine, I decided to look through old catalogs and use the photographs to create new images. It was very rewarding to create during this unpredictable time.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My studio is a room with large windows, a product table, several canvas backdrops, strobes, and containers filled with a selection of lenses, dried flowers, papers, books, tulle, and other materials to use in photographs. I often use natural window light while creating images, and sometimes block the natural light and use strobes to achieve a different effect. I only do a part of my collections in the studio, often I’m using the world as my studio. I feel inspired by culture and nature and enjoy traveling to capture images around us.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I've been fascinated by photography since I was a young child. I remember being in awe while creating images with photography paper, a leaf, and the sun when I was a camper as young as 4 years old. At university, I took photography lessons while studying Studio Arts and Art History. In 2014, I bought a new camera (Nikon D800) and joined a creative photography group at Avenue Road Arts School with Jennifer Chin. I still get together with people I met in the class to discuss photography, share images, and create in the studio. (These days it’s via Zoom J). It’s like a book club, but for photography. I find that being in a group with other creative people with similar interests helps to inspire me and builds knowledge and skills.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
While my style is eclectic, there are common themes behind the images that run through each collection.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My style has changed, yet the themes and sentiment have stayed the same. Through teaching photography workshops, I have created a formula for setting the stage for a successful photograph. Style starts with having a vision, capturing the image, and then refining by retouching, editing or adding unexpected elements.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My main artistic tools are a Nikon D850 and Sony mirrorless camera, a computer with Lightroom and a few external hard drives. I often go “treasure hunting” to find objects with sentimental value. In art school, I learned to consider light, subject, composition, and I find myself giving each image what it deserves to make it intuitively feel right to me.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
People are spending more and more time at home and naturally want to beautify their spaces. Some artists are becoming more independent and both artists and galleries are becoming more adept at marketing and sharing their work online.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
As mentioned, I’m currently selecting old photographs from my catalogue to create new more abstract, and conceptual images. I recently updated my website and have spent time organizing the business aspect of being an artist. I have also been collecting sentimental objects to produce new images in the Memento series. I look forward to whatever comes next, as the organic creative process often allows for many wonderful surprises.
Toronto-based abstract artist Mishel Schwartz's primary medium is alcohol ink — a medium she discovered by exploring the art scene on social media. Intrigued, she began experimenting with the inks and slowly developed a technique wherein layers of colour are added and intricate details are then carved out of the layers, giving her work great depth and mystery. We interviewed Mishel to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she’s working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to COVID-19?
When I am inspired it’s like a feeling that stirs within me, a desire to immerse myself in the creative process. These days I am inspired by the light mostly, its reflection on objects as it streams through the windows of my home studio. We have all had to amend our practice to suit the changing circumstances, I definitely find some days more challenging than others, but I try to stay connected to the things that bring me happiness.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My home studio is my happy place, It is a place that I can escape, refuel, and recharge. I am surrounded by large windows, which allow for incredible natural light to flood in, casting gorgeous shadows and highlights. When you work from home it does require a certain kind of diligence, but I treat my studio time like I do any job. ( just MUCH MUCH better)!!
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I happened across a video of an artist using alcohol ink a few years ago and I was immediately struck by its fluidity, its organic quality. The pigments are so deep and rich, yet have such a light, translucent quality to them as well. There is a mysterious nature to this medium, and I love how you can't really control what happens when the ink meets the surface. During the three-year period I have been using them, I have developed my own unique style, experimenting, and enjoying the process of learning to manipulate the ink in order to bring out wonderful depth, light, and detail.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
Abstract art created with the intuitive fluidity of alcohol ink to express the beauty of nature and the organic world.
5. Has your style changed over time?
I think the subject matter has changed more than the style. My work used to be more abstract, but lately, I find it leaning more toward the organic qualities of the natural world. I notice that I am experimenting much more as well, adding gold leaf, powders, and other mediums. I think the confidence I feel surrounding my art has opened me up to so much growth, I don't feel as controlled, and I approach each piece with more clarity and calm.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
There is a specific paper that I use called Yupo, it is non-porous-allowing for the fluidity of the ink as it glides across the surface. I use my breath a lot, I can move the ink by hovering over it, inhaling, and exhaling. The watercolor tank brush is my most precious tool, (they come in various brush sizes) I fill the tank with blending solution, and then carve into the dry ink to bring out the detail and depth. Alcohol blending solution is also wonderful on wet ink, I drag it across the paper creating organic elements like flowers, branches, and leaves.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
All the time! I think every artist does. Personally, I have learned to flow with those moments and times, to step away from the work, and immerse myself in other things that make me happy and inspire me. Eventually, it always passes and you come back to what you know.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
I studied Art History at University and was always in awe of the sheer genius of the Renaissance painters like Leonardo DaVinci and Michelangelo, the methodology, training, and raw skill. Today I find myself very drawn to the detail-oriented work of the Art Nouveau painters like Gustav Klimt. I don't think there is one specific style or period that truly moves me and inspires my work, I am drawn to nature, beauty, and the light.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I think the world, in general, is always in flux, change is inevitable, either we flow with it or stagnate. I choose the former.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
Around the time of COVID, there were many exciting and wonderful things happening, exhibitions, and collaborations. For now, I am concentrating on building my body of work and enjoying the time this situation has gifted me to do so. I started a very large painting a couple of months ago, and that has been keeping me company on a daily basis. I hope when things settle down a little, we have the pleasure once again of exhibiting and sharing art on a more personal level.
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California-based artist Robbie Kaye takes photographs and creates distinctive resin paintings, sometimes merging the two, with the goal of producing a provocative aesthetic that invites conversation and interpretation. Whether literal or abstract, the artist sees her work as an ongoing journal, one that has provided her a voice to express what she otherwise might not. We interviewed Robbie to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she’s working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
This sounds so silly, but life inspires me to make art… everything about it…the joys, the victories, the struggle, loss…everything. Creating art, for me, is an extension of journaling in my notebook, only I do it on a canvas… or a musical instrument. I am very committed to my morning ritual of solitude, drinking a glass of water with a prebiotic powder, meditation, tapping, writing… oh and I light a candle and incense. My creative day has become even more sacred since Covid-19, as it provides me refuge, sanity, and a place to disperse and transform any stress or worry about the present-day circumstances.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
I love my studio. Again, it is my refuge and luckily my husband has been very supportive in me converting our garage into a place to create. Every time I walk through the door and enter my studio and see all my paints and canvases, I am reminded of a time when I went to sleep-away camp from age 5-15, and couldn’t wait for the arts and crafts session… the smell of paint and castile soap… and now for me, still the smell of pain but also resin and it’s always completely delighting to walk the next day after spending the day before creating… to see what came out. I have some memorabilia in my studio from my youth, photos of dogs, now in heaven and I count my blessings that I have a big window that looks out on the beautiful trees outside… and some natural light gets in. I also light candles and incense while I’m working…
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
When I was a touring musician, my partner and I started working on a photography project, “Skeletons” and while we drove from town to town, we’d pull over and he would take photographs of things decaying on the side of the road… or once in a harbor and we rented a wave runner to get to it. The duo broke up and I loved directing photography so much that I bought my first camera and booked a trip to Spain for 3 weeks. I traveled alone and found that my camera was the one I was saying to, “look at that! And did you see that?” It became my companion… and made the trip a little less lonely and maybe even documenting some of the loneliness I felt on the trip. I think I used 12 rolls of film… some black and white and some color. From there I was hooked and then studied photography at The University of Southern California, where I worked and went back to school at age 41. About 5 years ago I was given the idea to paint with motorcycle tires…to design fabrics and I created leggings and sweatshirts with colored tracks… and called it “Treads on Threads.”
After a couple of years, I found that retail art wasn’t really for me, and because the photography world was becoming so saturated I found myself at a crossroads. I was in an artist’s mastermind group at the time and a good friend and an amazing artist in the group suggested that I try working with resin… and to go big. For some reason, it resonated with me and before I knew it, I had 4 x 6 ft pieces of aluminum, a blow torch, and resin in my not yet completely converted garage studio. I lost myself in this medium and was like the mad scientist… taking cues from my colleague but also experimenting because it was all new and different for me. I used motorcycle tires for a few pieces and then just started using brushes and my hands… in gloves of course. I loved coloring the resin and moving it around and started creating abstract pieces. I started working in that medium about two and a half years ago and submitted my work to a gallery for representation after a year and was fortunate to have my work selected. I spent the next year creating many pieces, still experimenting and transcribing what I would usually create photographically onto the aluminum… or wood. I continued working with resin and experimented with combining photography with resin. I recently started working with just acrylic paint and I am loving the process… on aluminum, on canvas on wood… I just love working with the colors and seeing how they work with each other… it all comes back to music for me… the composition… the many players creating a symphony or a unified sound, all together… coming together… to create that one beautiful sound.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I am an art and photojournalist, always documenting my experience of life.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My style has changed times, and changes all the time… as do I.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Acrylic paint, resin, aluminum, Nikon 7100, iPhone Pro Max 11, piano
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I don’t really have blocks as creating to me is like breathing. I think there comes a time when a writer, or artist needs to slow down or stop and fill up on life to have those experiences in their ‘toolbox’ to create… I stay inspired by music, being quiet in solitude, traveling as much as possible, and being in nature which always inspires me. I stay positive by reading or listening to inspirational books, journaling, and working with people who inspire me…I work with a high-performance coach as well as an art consultant. J Also, I watch “Whose Line is it Anyway?” as much as possible.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
Georgia O’Keefe, Cindy Sherman, Rothko, Diane Arbus, Amy Arbus, Helen Leavitt, Robert Frank, Jason Martin, Monet, Matisse, Leigh Shenton, Abi Hodes, Walker Evans, Ansel Adams.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Yes, galleries will be showing more work online, while they will probably limit how many people are in the physical gallery at one time… I see a ton more calls for submissions, which is great for artists… great exposure.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I just started a new project called, “Aftermath” I don’t think it’s so much about the Pandemic, not directly, but more about the opportunity it has given me to be more still and delve into my own soul… to get quiet and ask questions that create space in my mind as I go deeper to find that peace that is always there, but so easily covered up and muffled by conditions… external and internal… and especially now… It has been a very fertile time, a time to process so much loss, not just personally, but globally and the coming together we have all been witnessing… A time that really proposes the question, “Who are you?” or “Who do you want to be?” So with that, I am creating work that feels intrinsically connected to where I am at this time… after all the diving deep… a lightness is more present and I am creating from that space… or rather, I am allowing the muse, the creative Goddess… whatever or whoever… to flow through me as I open …. I am truly just the vessel.
Mahyar Amiri is an artist from Toronto whose style is heavily inspired by contemporary brand culture and design. His works are summarized through a group of collections that each utilize different mediums and consist of different genres of art. Working primarily on canvas, the artist finishes each piece with dynamic gestures in paint, resin, and neon, giving each piece its unique and contemporary finish. Carrying his signature, Amiri, meaning “the one who will never die”, the works capture what is iconic and eternal in our society today. We interviewed Mahyar to learn more about his practice, inspirations, and what he is working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day begins with replying to emails and sketching a few ideas in my sketchbook. My routine hasn’t changed much due to Covid-19 besides having to order most of my supplies online rather than in person.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
I paint and make most of my art mainly from home in my basement or bedroom.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I tend to get bored easily using the same mediums over and over again, so I get interested in different mediums if I haven’t experienced them.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
A strive for perfection with a hint of destruction.
5. Has your style changed over time?
Not really.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
Brushes, silkscreens, spray paint cans, sketch markers, stencils, and paint.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I experience creativity blocks all the time. Usually, I give my ideas rest and time because I don’t like to rush into things.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
I think the biggest impact on my art practices was made from my childhood. All of the pieces I make have something in common with what I found interest in during my childhood years.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I think the art industry has an increased online presence due to the ongoing pandemic.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I’m currently fulfilling commissions for clients and I would love to have more free time later this year to release a new collection of works.
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Work by Toronto-based abstract pop artist Adam LAncia reinterprets pop art. He uses washes of color and detailed line work to create compositions that reveal the layers of messaging and content we are bombarded with every day. Through this process, he attempts to reveal a manufactured reality. We interviewed Adam to learn more about his practice, inspirations, and what he is working on today.
1.How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day definitely involves music. Being alone in my art studio, working on new pieces, and having the music playing allows me to get into the proper headspace. This definitely gets the creative juices flowing. Covid-19 has changed my day just in the sense that I’m able to be in that creative headspace for longer periods of time and get more work done. I’ve been able now to work on art for 8 to 10 hours a day which is great.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
My art studio is located at my Nonna’s (grandmother’s) house. I decided a couple of years ago that this is where I wanted to work. It would be the best of both worlds as she had the extra space and I know she’d really want my company in the house. Also that I would be there for her to help in any way I can make me happy.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I believe this style came from trying out all styles and mediums used. My time at OCAD University really helped develop this. It felt natural and right when I landed upon acrylic paints and the way I work with diluting them.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
My style would be contemporary pop art done in a cartoony realistic aesthetic.
5. Has your style changed over time?
To get to what I’m creating now I tried all different mediums and styles. Everything leads to this. Even in previous styles, I was able to take techniques/ knowledge and apply it to the style I’m creating now.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
My main artistic tools would be all different brands of acrylic paints, various sizes of flat and round brushes, acrylic markers, charcoal pencil crayons, and water.
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
I think every creative person goes through it and it’s fine. You never want to force things out. The time apart from a piece allows more thought and perspective to go into it that the piece will come out better in the end.
8. What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
I’ve always had an open mind for art and so many different artists from different time periods have inspired me. Even if I’m not creating a certain style, any piece can inspire the creative juices to flow in color, shape, or composition. If I had to give two artists who really changed my view and helped shape the art in which I’m creating, it would be Klimt and Warhol. I love the portrait, pop art, colors, and implementing designs/ patterns in a piece.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
I think we won’t be having public events for a while but I do think things eventually will go back to normal. For now, we can use our social media tools to engage and get our art out there.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
For me, the silver lining to this pandemic has been that more people are at home and on their phones. My artworks are being noticed/ discovered a lot more and it leads to consistent commissions. So that’s what I’ve been up to and hope to connect with more people and get more work done.
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Lori Burke is a full-time International artist originally from the Horseshoe Valley ski area north of Toronto. She now lives in a small waterfront town in Ridgeway Ontario, Canada. She is self-taught, honing her craft through research and courses. Her great-grandmother was a well-known artist painting and showing into her 80’s. L. Burke draws from her inner voice and is guided by intuition as she expresses passion and movement in every piece of her work. She has won several awards and has participated in many competitions and art exhibitions. We interviewed Lori to learn more about her practice, inspirations, and what she’s working on today.
1. How does your creative day look like and what inspires you to make art? Has your creative day changed due to Covid-19?
My creative day has not changed much, I have a beautiful home studio to work in. I am a creature of habit I will do my posting and computer work in the early mornings, I grab a coffee and head to my loft studio, birds singing and lots of light beaming in. I pop on some music and start my process. If I don’t have a definite plan or commission I’m working on then I let my intuition guide me.
2. Tell us more about your art studio.
I was very fortunate to be able to create my sacred space. We built this studio in the loft of my carriage house which is an additional building on our property. It’s amazing and I immediately feel the creative juices start to flow whenever I’m out there. It has a beautiful bed, a couple of couches and my studio. It will often double as a spot for friends and family to stay when visiting, as well its great showplace for two studio tours I participate in yearly and private art open houses.
3. How did you first get interested in your medium/s?
I have been painting and drawing for as long as I can remember, it’s been a lifelong passion of mine. I am self-taught and love the ability and option to be diverse in my style, I love to explore with texture and always try to incorporate depth in all my work. Wind, water, sky, and the earth have always been my muse and come into play in everything I do. Acrylics are my main medium however I love inks, spray paints, and gel as well, utilizing many of these in my abstract and mixed media pieces.
4. Describe your style in one sentence.
I am an abstract artist who enjoys a diverse style and technique, freely expressing my inner connection and intuition with nature.
5. Has your style changed over time?
My style has changed over the years possibly becoming more diverse as I like to stretch my imagination. I love to explore where my intuition takes me without guilt or judgment to produce the same things over and over. Don’t get me wrong there are subjects I adore and will repeat but I love to play with ideas, texture, and colour so variety is my mistress.
6. What are your main artistic tools?
This is not an easy one as I will use everything brushes, palette knives, wedges, credit cards, and my personal favourite my fingers!
7. Do you ever experience creativity blocks and how do you stay positive and inspired?
Like all creatives, we have times when we aren’t creating. I work on other areas of my business during these times, we can’t be “ON” 100 percent of the time. I don’t stress over these things, I listen to my soul as there are times to paint and create and times to just be.. I know this with my whole heart and embrace the quiet times to recharge my vision.
8.What artists - either contemporary or from history - have had an impact on you and your art practice?
I love the masters, Monet, Degas, Van Gough, and especially the great sculptors Rodin, Michelangelo, and Donatello. I feel my expression through work with texture and colour for example my “Soul Series” shows these influences.
9. Do you think the art world has changed or will be changing due to the pandemic? If yes, how?
Sadly things are changing and I feel it will be some time before we get back to freely exploring places like the Louvre. Live exhibitions will take a back seat to online shows, intimate galleries will limit the numbers of people entering. However I feel it will all come around again, maybe not to the extent it was prior to the pandemic but change is a moving target. Creatives will adjust to it. We will embrace the new normal as the world is in this together.
10. What project are you working on right now? What would you like to do next?
I’ve been working on a couple of commissions and they are going really well. One of the commissions was a Blue Jay in special memory of a lost loved one. I tried to put an ethereal spirit and essence into this painting. They absolutely loved it and felt very connected by it. So I may do a series of birds expressing their spiritual beauty.
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