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. Repeating within my paintings are the themes of nature and home, which are interpreted from my own experiences. Through the use of bold colour in acrylic within clean, designed lines, self-expression can be translated on an emotional level. The query into home and nature is continued.

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 natural surroundings and our city streets. Psychologically, the idea of home offers an inward investigation into who we are, while symbolizing the potential to create our piece/peace in the world. Through the act of painting, I revisit feelings, memories, and places, inviting the viewer to explore what they are feeling, where they have been, and where they wish to go. 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.

Read Jodi Kitto-Ward's "One Day in a Studio" interview.