Jodi Kitto-Ward
BIO
Jodi Kitto-Ward is a Sheridan College Fine Arts Graduate and an elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists, the Ontario Society of Artists and the Colour and Form Society. Painting mainly in acrylic, Jodi’s work is strongly influenced by line, colour and expression. Her style is representational, vibrant and simplified in form, evoking influences of Pop Art and Art Deco. Repeating within her body of work are landscapes and urban views, many inspired by Hamilton, Ontario. where Jodi resides and works from her home studio. Jodi has won numerous awards, including the Ina Gilbert 1st Award of Excellence from the Society of Canadian Artists in 2023. Her artwork can be found in public and private collections across Canada.
ARTIST STATEMENT
“Within my process, I connect with my work on a deep level, utilizing symbolism, narrative and subsequent self-reflection. Recurring within my paintings are the themes of nature and home. I don't believe I consciously chose these themes, but more so, they revealed themselves in my artwork. Another layer to my paintings is colour and its effects psychologically and emotionally, not only on the viewer but also myself during the painting process.
In our current world, having a sense of home does not always come easily. With conflict, major global displacement, poverty and mental health issues, our society is an ever-changing landscape. People are searching for a living environment within our surroundings and on our city streets. The idea of home offers an inward investigation into who we are, while symbolizing the potential to create our own piece/peace in the world.
Through the act of painting, I explore my own emotions, memories, and creativity, inviting the viewer to engage their imagination by connecting to their own quiet magic. The inclusion of nature in my art is at times exaggerated, occasionally including only sky, and is to emphasize the benefit of prioritizing a relationship at home with our natural world, while fostering respect and protection of our environment.“
