ARTIST: Judith Rackham, 1950
LOCATION: Campbell River, British Columbia
MEDIA: Oil on Canvas
SIZE: 18" x 14"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: With permission from the carver, in 2021 I created a series of works depicting the creation of the Language Pole, which stands in Port Alberni, BC. This piece depicts Joshua as he works on creating some of the designs and motifs.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Judith Rackham began her art career in England, her birthplace. After graduating from Art School, she worked as an apprentice junior designer for Josiah Wedgwood and Sons. After emigrating to Canada, further schooling took place, which qualified Judith to work as a teacher. Over the last fifty years, Judith has completed many commissions, exhibited works in galleries, and illustrated thirteen books suited for elementary school children. The current publication, both written and illustrated by Judith, will be completed by autumn 2024. The works seen in this exhibition are part of a series of works which show the creative process found in the creation of a totem pole. The carvers very graciously allowed her to complete sketches and photographs, which led to the completion of the works. Judith’s work can be found in the home of collectors in Canada, Britain, Australia, and the USA.
WEBSITE: www.judithrackhamart.com
ARTIST: Grant Lounsbury, 1969
LOCATION: MacPhersons Mills, Nova Scotia
MEDIA: Oil on stretched canvas
SIZE: 24” x 30”
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Drawing my inspiration from the iconic Canadian artists in the Group of Seven, this landscape captures the quiet and wild nature of Northern Ontario using a loose, stylized approach that celebrates the radiant colors that are particularly vibrant in this region in the fall. I wanted to revisit the style that personally inspired my art journey and kept the style simple but enhanced the colors for a vibrant Canadian scene.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Grant Lounsbury is a classically trained animator and received his Bachelor of Arts in Animation from Sheridan College in 1989. He spent his early career in the field of traditional animation, working on a variety of television and animated feature films. He has worked internationally on multiple animated feature films, including Anastasia, Titan AE, and Werner. Most recently, Grant has been working as a professional oil painter and teaching art at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, NS. +*Grant enjoys embracing a loose style that feels alive and reveals to the viewer the movement, energy, and compassion he feels as an artist. Grant’s work can be found on many social media sites and selected exhibitions and galleries in Canada and the US. In 2019, his solo exhibit “North by Northeast” ran at Keuka College in Penn Yan, NY and the Iva Smith Memorial Gallery in Hammonds, NY.
WEBSITE: https://www.instagram.com/grantlounsburyart/
ARTIST: Kathleen Crosby, 1965
LOCATION: Winnipeg, Manitoba
MEDIA: Acrylic on canvas
SIZE: 24” x 32”
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: There are little surprises along the way. Wide open spaces with pops of color.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Working as a professional artist since 2008,Kathleen Crosby has been exhibiting her works in many galleries and exhibitions, including Pulse Gallery at the Forks Winnipeg and Art Gallery of South-western Manitoba in Brandon. She is a member of Manitoba Society of Artists and Artists in Canada. She has been honoured to be commissioned to create many paintings for private collectors as well as an 11 foot triptych for the Health Science Center. Kathleen inspires to bring hope, healing, peace and joy through her art. Kathleen has a desire to inspire her and others to rise above the difficult challenges in life. She is captivated by nature, especially amazing skies, music, colour and people.
WEBSITE: kcrosbyart.blogspot.com
ARTIST: Chantal Bourque
LOCATION: Vaudreuil-Dorion, Québec
MEDIA: Acrylic, mixed media and tree barks on canvas
SIZE: 30 H x 24 W inches
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: My Canada has some of the most beautiful trees, one of which is the maple tree, especially in autumn. Each leaf seems a work of art in itself; twirling in the air, they paint the sky with an infinite palette of warm, luminous hues. In each falling leaf, I see the eternal beauty of nature as it constantly reinvents itself, season after season.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Chantal Bourque is a painter specializing in acrylic portraits of trees. Through her works, she portrays a moment in their lives when they caught her eye—a unique moment that pays tribute to them. In the majority of her paintings, you can see real pieces of bark, symbolizing the precious and fragile relationship of co-presence between man and nature. Chantal has taken part in numerous national and international exhibitions and received several awards for her work. She won second place at AcrylicWorks 11: The Best of Acrylic in 2024 and 2nd Jury's Prize at the Landscapes Exhibition 2023, organized by the Federation of Canadian Artists. Her works are an invitation to live in harmony with the forest, encouraging awareness and a deeper connection with nature.
WEBSITE: www.chantalbourque.com
ARTIST: Marie-Christine Claveau, 1977
LOCATION: Terrace, British Columbia
MEDIA: acrylic / canvas
SIZE: 40" x 30"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Unnamed Peak in the Salmon Glacier near Stewart, B.C.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Marie-Christine Claveau grew up in Saguenay-Lac St-Jean, Québec, where she developed a deep appreciation for nature. After earning a university degree, she moved to British Columbia, where she worked in the forestry industry all over the province for many years. Now residing in Rosswood, BC, on Traditional Kitsumkalum territories, Claveau’s paints mainly from her home studio. Exploration of the land and plein air studies feed her bigger studio paintings. Her vibrant acrylic paintings capture the simple, dynamic beauty of the natural world, blending realism with abstraction.
Claveau, an Associate Member of the Federation of Canadian Artists and an Elected Member of the Society of Canadian Artists, has exhibited widely across Canada. Her work is inspired by the diverse landscapes she visits, reflecting her passion for Nature and the wilderness.
WEBSITE: www.mcclaveau.art
ARTIST: Sanaz Ravasani, 1983
LOCATION: West Vancouver, British Columbia
MEDIA: Acrylic on canvas
SIZE: 24” x 24”
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: “When I immigrated to Canada, the first thing that caught my attention in this wonderful natural environment was the sound of the birds. This collection of bird paintings, with Persian calligraphy in the background, represents my initial encounter with this unique aspect of nature.”
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Immersed in the world of art from an early age by a painter mother, my passion for painting has always been steadfast. Although I pursued industrial design at the Art and Architecture University of Tehran and explored various artistic endeavors like jewelry design and photography—holding several exhibitions in these fields—my true calling was always the canvas.
In 2020, I committed to refining my artistic style, embarking on a journey of exploration and experimentation. Following my immigration from Iran, I felt a strong desire to incorporate my cultural heritage into my work. Through extensive study of Persian calligraphy and various mediums, I found that acrylic on canvas best captured my vision.
This deeply personal and rewarding pursuit has led to a distinctive artistic voice, culminating in a group exhibition at the Kay Meek Art Center in March 2024. I continue to hone my craft, driven by the aspiration to make art my professional livelihood.
WEBSITE: www.instagram.com/sanaz.ravasani
ARTIST: Phil Irish, 1971
LOCATION: Elora, Ontario
MEDIA: Oil on aluminum
SIZE: 24" x 30"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: I've been exploring how to visualize the transformation of the arctic in a way that is resonant, allusive, and of this moment. The series is inspired by 9 days aboard an icebreaker in the Canadian arctic with Canada C3. The combination of northern lights and the shifting geometries of ice make this piece a powerful emblem of transforming Canada.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Phil Irish, from Ontario, Canada, makes paintings that are both fierce and beautiful. His practice extends painting into realms of collage, installation, and lens-based practices. His work has been shown at public museums, artist-run-centres, and commercial galleries across Canada. The Kolaj Institute, in New Orleans, featured his architecturally scaled installation “The Green Fuse”. His work was featured at the Quebec City Biennial, and three times shortlisted for the Kingston Portrait Prize. He has developed new work during residencies at the Symposium in Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec, The Banff Centre, and the Vermont Studio Center. His ship-board residency with The Arctic Circle is shaping new directions in his work. His work is available through Lonsdale Gallery in Toronto. In 2020, he competed in CBC’s Landscape Artist of the Year Canada. He holds degrees from York (MFA) and Guelph (BA) and is professor of art at Redeemer University in Ancaster, Ontario.
WEBSITE: www.philirish.art
ARTIST: Crystal Beshara, 1975
LOCATION: L’Orignal, Ontario
MEDIA: oil on gallery stretched canvas with painted sides
SIZE: 36” x 48''
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: "Thick as Thieves" captures the essence of my Canada through the imagery of two grey wolves. These wolves, pushing against one another with a sense of comfort and confidence, epitomize the strength and unity I see in this diverse country. The Alpha's unwavering gaze symbolizes the resilience and leadership that define our nation. His companion, leaning into him, represents trust and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of community alongside individual strength. Raised in rural Eastern Ontario, I've always felt a deep connection to nature. This painting reflects the harmonious balance in Canada, where diverse elements come together to create a unified whole. "Thick as Thieves" is my tribute to a Canada where strength meets compassion and independence pairs with interdependence, all grounded in the beauty of our natural world.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Crystal Beshara is a dynamic and internationally acclaimed contemporary realist painter whose work captivates audiences around the globe. Growing up on a small hobby farm in rural Eastern Ontario, Crystal's journey with art began as a child, sketching the world around her with an innate talent that soon blossomed into a remarkable career. As a two-time recipient of the prestigious Elizabeth Greenshields Award and the winner of the People's Choice Award at the McMichael Plein-Air competition, Crystal has earned a reputation for her exceptional artistry. Her accolades also extend to honors from Plein-Air Salon Magazine and more, highlighting her standing in the art community. In 1997, Crystal earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio, followed by a diploma in Botanical Illustration from the Society of Botanical Artists (SBA, UK). Her dedication and passion have led her to exhibit alongside some of North America's most revered wildlife painters, including Robert Bateman, James Coe, Rod Lawrence, John Seerey-Lester, Greg Beecham, Kathy Ellem, and Theresa Elliot. Crystal's oils and watercolors, known for their vibrant realism and delicate precision, have graced the pages of esteemed publications such as American Art Collector, Plein-Air Magazine, Fine Art Connoisseur, Canadian Cowboy Magazine, Canadian Cattleman, and International Artist Magazine. Each piece she creates tells a story, inviting viewers to step into a world where nature's beauty is captured with breathtaking clarity. Her work continues to resonate with art enthusiasts and collectors alike, cementing Crystal Beshara as a powerful force in contemporary realism.
WEBSITE: www.crystalbeshara.com
ARTIST: Jing Zhu, 1982
LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario
MEDIA: oil on canvas
SIZE: 36" x 48"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Entitled "Sunrise at Lake Louise", this painting captures a moment from my visit to the lake in May 2018, when it was cloaked in thawing blanket of ice and snow. Despite the slow transition, the atmosphere exuded tranquility and peace, inspiring my artistic endeavors. The sunrise, with its captivating hues reflecting off the mountains, snow, and lake surface, was particularly enchanting. I aimed to imbue my painting with the essence of that serene morning, where the interplay of colors served as a primary motivation for depicting this scene.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Artist Jing Zhu was born in Beijing, graduated from Tianjin University, and is now a resident of Canada. Ms. Zhu has been passionate about art since childhood and has been engaged in artistic creation and design for many years since her arrival in Canada as an immigrant. Now she is Canada Council of the Arts New/Early Career Artist. Her art work "Sunset Serenity" has been honored to be invited to participate in the 2024 Venice International Art Biennale, Personal Structures, which will run from April 20 to November 24, 2024, in Venice, Italy. She expresses her gratitude to her art mentor, Mr. Zhao Da Fu for his guidance and encouragement over years in art. Mr. Zhao is a member of the China Artists Association, a former fine art editor at People's Fine Arts Publishing House of China, and the chief editor of Watercolor Art.
WEBSITE: www.jingzhu-art.ca
ARTIST: Marion Evamy, 1961
LOCATION: Sidney, British Columbia
MEDIA: Acrylic on canvas
SIZE: 30” x 30”
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Sidney, BC, is my home, and this beautiful seaside community has a small bandshell for musical performances. A great Canadian summer pastime to celebrate our town.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Most people consider me an abstract expressionist painter, although my techniques and approaches vary depending on the subject matter. Guided by joy, humour, mystery and boldness, I’m passionate about the power of colour, observation, connection and the beauty of nature. But not in the conventional sense. My paintings are for those folks looking to get outside the box! I have collectors internationally and have paintings in four permanent institutional collections, along with numerous awards from juried shows. With influences that range from the modern masters to contemporary painters, especially those in the Bay Area of California and the Southwest, my artistic inspiration knows no boundaries. My abstract paintings are a playground of colours, shapes, and space, resulting in vibrant compositions that intrigue my fans. Inspired by the music I adore, the titles of songs often find their way into my creations. There’s also my love for painting imaginary people, who are a delightful fusion of those I meet and dream about. While predominantly self-taught, I attended one year of art school in the early ’80s after completing my university degree in psychology and art history. An eclectic mix of experiences, travels and career experiences have shaped my artistic journey, allowing me to embrace a unique and authentic style.
WEBSITE: www.marionevamy.com
ARTIST: Jamie Bradbury, 1981
LOCATION: St. John's, Newfoundland
MEDIA: Watercolour on Arches paper,
SIZE: 9" x 12"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: This image is quintessential outport Newfoundland. It represents both the past and present reality of the experience of being a Newfoundlander.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Jamie Bradbury is a multidisciplinary artist with 20 years of experience in drawing, painting, visual arts, music, and independent research-creation. Originally from Toronto, he now lives and works in Newfoundland. He was awarded bachelor's degrees from OCAD University, and Memorial University of Newfoundland, whilst holding a master's degree from Central Saint Martins in London. His work has been exhibited widely across North America and Europe, including notable venues such as the Royal Cambrian Academy of Art in Wales and the Overture Center for the Arts in Wisconsin. His art has been featured in Canadian Art, Voir Magazine, and CBC News, and he gained national recognition in Canada through his participation in the TV show Star Portraits. Bradbury's artwork is held in private and public collections, Canada's national collection. He has also collaborated with choreographer Marissa Wong on dance and soundscape projects, presenting their work at various venues and events, including TEDx Soma in 2020. Recently, he was awarded a Canadian Council of the Arts grant for Movement and Sound Creation.
WEBSITE: www.jamiebradbury.com
ARTIST: Sylvie Drainville, 1964
LOCATION: Orford, Québec
MEDIA: acrylic and oil on wood panel
SIZE: 36x48 in, framed
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Throughout Canada, nature lovers can find a quiet and inspiring landmark. The forest is accessible and peaceful, you just have to look and let yourself be transported on this journey to recharge your batteries or to paint. Our country offers so much natural beauty.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: As a contemporary landscape painter and self-taught artist, I take my pictorial research very seriously. I studied fine arts and graphic arts. Between 1985 and 1989, I studied digital creation in Boston, New York, and Chicago. I created digital images when the technique was unknown to everyone. At the same time, I painted. Since 2006, I have been painting professionally. I focus on nature. Fragile and violent, nature inspires me. Its incredible refinement fascinates me. I use acrylic when I need to work quickly, but my process is slower when I paint with oil. If I had to choose, it would be oil; I progress faster yet at a slower pace. This brings me to the essence of the present. I paint without using photographs. My landscapes are of locations in Canada. Each painting has its own character, and that is my way of painting. Everyone can identify a place. The creation of colors is my main stimulus; I create eclectic colors. I have a philosophical approach to colors, and I am known for the uniqueness of my color combinations.
Peintre paysagiste contemporaine, autodidacte, je pousse très loin la recherche picturale.J'ai étudié les beaux-arts et les arts graphiques. Entre 1985 et 1989, j'ai étudié la création numérique à Boston, New York, Chicago. J'ai créé des images numériques, alors que la technique était inconnue de tous.Parallèlement, je peins. Depuis 2006, je peins professionnellement.Je me concentre sur la nature. Fragile, violente, la nature m'inspire. Son incroyable raffinement me fascine.J'utilise l'acrylique quand j'ai besoin d'aller vite, et ma dynamique est lente quand je peins à l'huile. À choisir, c'est l'huile, je progresse plus vite mais lentement. Cela m'amène à l'essentiel du présent. Je peins sans photographie. Mes paysages sont des endroits au Canada. Chaque tableau a sa propre nature et c'est ma façon de peindre. Tout le monde peut identifier un lieu. La création des couleurs est mon principal stimulus ; je crée des couleurs éclectiques. J'ai une attitude philosophique à l'égard des couleurs, et je suis réputée pour la singularité de mes combinaisons chromatiques.
WEBSITE: https://www.drainville.ca/
ARTIST: Golnaz Khadivi Zand, 1974
LOCATION: Thornhill, Ontario
MEDIA: Oil on canvas
SIZE: 30” x 40"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: In my artwork, I explore a Jamaican immigrant woman's inner and outer worlds in Canada. Inside the frame, her mind paints a hopeful, vibrant future, starkly contrasting with the muted, challenging realities she faces outside it. This duality captures her resilience and society's misunderstanding as she strives to bridge the gap between her dreams and daily life.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Golnaz Khadivi Zand, born in Iran, is a contemporary figurative realist painter. She earned a Master's degree in Architecture from Tehran's Azad University in 2001 and taught at the Islamic Azad University of Mashhad until 2007. Moving to Canada in 2011 marked a new chapter for her, shifting her focus to painting. Her art captures the migration experience through a female lens, blending figurative art with rich symbolism, influenced by Persian culture and Rumi's poetry. Her works explore struggles with confinement and freedom using frames, threads, and curtains to symbolize barriers. Golnaz's works have been showcased in prestigious venues across Canada, Zurich, Spain, England, and Iran. She has received numerous accolades, including the 2024 Diploma of Mode Portrait 2023 at MEAM Museum, Barcelona, and the First Prize at the 2022 and 2024 Colour and Form Society Members' Exhibitions, Toronto. In 2023, she was a top 25 artist in the SCA Open International Juried Exhibition and won Best in Show in Markham. Golnaz is an elected member of the SCA, OSA, and CFS. She is a self-employed artist and educator at Violet Art Studio in Thornhill.
WEBSITE: www.GolnazKhadiviZand.com
ARTIST: Murray Van Halem, 1951
LOCATION: Dundas, Ontario
MEDIA: Oil on canvas
SIZE: 24 x 30 inches
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Painting a steel mill is usually outside the genre of Canadian art and a subject matter that is rarely visited by Canadian artists. Although reflecting the underbelly of a vision of Canada, the mills are an integral part of the country's development as a nation.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: “It is the common things that compel me to paint; busy streets, the factories, the harbours. This is where people live their lives, a place where I can speak in paint and record the humble beauty of the simple things around us.”- Murray Van Halem.
Murray Van Halem is a Canadian landscape artist and portrait painter working in oils.A graduate of Montreal’s School of Modern Photography, he began his career as a large-format commercial photographer and worked as a photojournalist, portrait photographer, magazine editor and real estate broker. Primarily a self-taught painter, Murray has attended the Haliburton School of Art and the Dundas Valley School of Art. He now works daily at his Dundas, Ontario, studio.
WEBSITE: www.murrayvanhalem.com
ARTIST: Nancy L Moore, 1971
LOCATION: Newtonville, ON
MEDIA: Acrylic on Gallery Canvas
SIZE: 24" x 36"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: As a child and when growing up we were in the forest a lot as a family. When I need to feel relaxed I seek trickling water and solitude. I find I especially need nature now more than ever before.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Since 1997 Nancy has been the co-owner of "Seastar Images Inc.", a graphics company located in Ajax, Ontario and although still involved in the graphic design industry, her passion has always been fine art. Nancy says: "As an artist, I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to paint and draw without boundaries. While I enjoy experimenting with different mediums, I have been drawn to working in acrylics lately. My style is largely experimental, with an emphasis on abstracting nature and landscapes. I never set out to replicate an image, but instead, strive to convey a mood or evoke an emotion using loose lines, rich textures and bold colours." Nancy is a member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, Society of Canadian Artists, Ontario Society of Artists and Artist Network, Toronto. Her art has been exhibited at galleries in and around southern Ontario and Quebec. Moore has received several prestigious awards, including the Carson Arthur Award at the 31st Annual Art in the County Juried Art Exhibition (2024), the Antoinette Stevens Award for Best Acrylic at the Society of Canadian Artists' Elected Members' Juried Online Exhibition (2020), an Award of Merit at both the Society of Canadian Artists' OPEN International Juried Exhibition (2019) and the Pineridge Juried Exhibition (2010), as well as the Mayor's Choice Award at the Colborne Art Gallery Juried Exhibition (2014).
WEBSITE: nancylmoore.ca
ARTIST: Lisa Dautremont, 1960
LOCATION: Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
MEDIA: Oil on 1-5/8" cradled wood panel, framed
SIZE: 20" x 20"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Growing up on the Canadian Prairies in the 60's - 70's on a rural farm, kitchens were the heart of the home, where much of the food was prepared from scratch. This scene is nostalgic as it brings back memories of a simpler life and women gathering to prepare food, taking advantage of this time to visit.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: While enjoying creative arts since childhood, Lisa actively engaged in representational oil painting five years ago, making it an almost daily practice. Primarily self-taught, she has gleaned the benefits of local lessons in the first few months, accompanied by online instruction. For the past three years, she has sat under several mentors through the Mastrius artist community. She loves to study great masters and has enjoyed trying to replicate their works for her own learning. Her subject matter varies based on what truly captures her attention and emotion. While most paintings are completed in her home, she also finds painting "en plein air" exhilarating in spite of its challenges. She is privileged to have sold both her own originals as well as commissioned paintings to collectors across North America. Achievements of note: Artist residency at Banff Boutique Inn, Banff, AB: Square Foot Show: Mastrius Art Show "100 Days of Summer” & “Land To Sky"/Scottsdale Artists School "Best & Brightest" 2023, for which an award was won: 1st Place in Watermedia Category / Art collaboration with pianist & composer Margin Alexander in his "Manhattan Canvas Stories" New York concert / FCA online "Annual International Representational Exhibition" / Petite Art Show "Spring Has Sprung".
WEBSITE: www.lisadautremontartist.com
ARTIST: Chantal Bourque
LOCATION: Vaudreuil-Dorion, Québec
MEDIA: Acrylic, mixed media and tree barks on Canvas
SIZE: 30 H x 24 W inches
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: For me, Canada's forests represent an ecological balance that is essential to our quality of life. With this painting, I illustrate a story of collaboration between man and nature, as my father and grandfather worked to clean up and regenerate this forest following a fire. In “My Canada,” man and nature can be mutually beneficial, proving that true harmony is born of their union.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Chantal Bourque is a painter specializing in acrylic portraits of trees. Through her works, she portrays a moment in their lives when they caught her eye—a unique moment that pays tribute to them. In the majority of her paintings, you can see real pieces of bark, symbolizing the precious and fragile relationship of co-presence between man and nature. Chantal has taken part in numerous national and international exhibitions and received several awards for her work. She won second place at AcrylicWorks 11: The Best of Acrylic in 2024 and 2nd Jury's Prize at the Landscapes Exhibition 2023, organized by the Federation of Canadian Artists. Her works are an invitation to live in harmony with the forest, encouraging awareness and a deeper connection with nature.
WEBSITE: www.chantalbourque.com
ARTIST: Asma Burney, 1949
LOCATION: Surrey, British Columbia
MEDIA: framed acrylic painting on clay board.
SIZE: 13" X 13" inches
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: The Canadian Rocky Mountains and the lakes are where I go to seek beauty, serenity and inspiration. This painting is one such piece that was inspired by the Canadian Rockies.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Asma is a contemporary artist who lives and creates art in Surrey, BC. She went to Art School in Hyderabad, India and also in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Although she was trained as an artist at a very young age, Asma had to put her art aside in pursuit of other careers. After her retirement in 2015, she got fully immersed in her art practice once again. Asma works in several mediums like acrylics, watercolours and oils. Her current works are mostly in acrylics and mixed media.She grew up admiring the impressionist painters and artist's like Matisse and Picasso. Her works often reflects these influences. Asma enjoys traveling and seeing the world from an artist's perspective. World politics also have an impact on her works. Asma is an active member of the Federation of Canadian Artists, Vancouver and several art councils in the lower mainland where she regularly gets selected for juried exhibitions. Her works are currently on display at various locations. She has also sold her art through various venues in Vancouver and Edmonton, AB.
WEBSITE: www.instagram.com/asmaburney
ARTIST: Peter Cheung
LOCATION: Burlington, Ontario
MEDIA: Oil on Canvas
SIZE: 36in x 48in
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: This dynamic painting depicts a Canadian icon, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer, in action. The officer, in a striking red uniform, rides a powerful black horse adorned with a yellow and blue saddle. The dramatic use of light and shadow adds intensity and movement, emphasizing the horse's strength and the officer's focused demeanor. The background's dark, swirling hues contrast with the bright uniform, creating a sense of urgency and motion, also suggests a contemporary style, blending realism with expressive, almost abstract elements.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Born in Hong Kong and now residing in Burlington, Ontario, Peter Cheung is a dynamic Canadian artist. Cheung’s journey into the world of art began under the tutelage of a renowned Chinese painting master, where he honed his skills in the delicate art of ink and water painting. Over time, he seamlessly integrated the swift and robust brushwork of Chinese painting into his western oils and watercolours, creating an aesthetic unique to him. He believes that good art should allow the viewer to look ‘into’ it rather than just ‘at’ it. This philosophy is a fundamental part of his artistic approach. Cheung’s work is designed to create a connection with the viewer, allowing them to experience the energy, life force, and movement encapsulated within each piece. Cheung is a highly acclaimed artist known for his diverse portfolio, including textbook illustrations, juror of art shows and engaging public painting classes. His work can be found in a vast array of private and corporate collections internationally.
WEBSITE: www.peterc.faso.com
ARTIST: Cecilia Keilty, 1965
LOCATION: Summerland British Columbia
MEDIA: Acrylic on canvas
SIZE: 12” x 24” x 1.5”
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Climate change is a very real threat to our precious Canadian landscape. In the beautiful Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, as in many regions of our country, our majestic forests and wildlife habitats are in constant risk of being decimated by devastating fires. ‘Regeneration’ is a comment on this very threat. Where the colours, shapes and movement evoke the devastation of these wildfires, the leaves suggest a potential for renewal, a fragile glimmer of hope, where change can occur if the cause is truly taken to heart by all generations.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Cecilia began her art career at the University of British Columbia, completing a bachelor’s degree in Art History, followed by a masters in Art Conservation at Queens University in Kingston, Ontario. Since then, she worked as an art conservator at the Vancouver Art Gallery, Calgary’s Glenbow Museum, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg, and the Den Gamle By Museum in Arhus, Denmark. In 1996, she opened her own private art conservation studio in Summerland, B.C. where she maintained a successful practice for several years. Still based out of her Summerland studio, in 2019, Cecilia began experimenting with fluid art, utilizing the unpredictable nature of fluid acrylics to create unique, abstract representations, highlighting the beauty of nature that surrounds us. Most recently, her work has been on display at the District Wine Village in Oliver, the Under 500 show at the Penticton Art Gallery and at The Nest Restaurant in Penticton.
WEBSITE: www.CeciliaKeiltyStudio.com
ARTIST: Danielle Adams, 1998
LOCATION: Squamish, British Columbia
MEDIA: Acrylics on Canvas
SIZE: 48” x 24"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Born and raised on the west coast, Danielle spent her formative years exploring the mountains, forests and coastlines of BC, those experiences form the foundation of her artistic practice and remain an integral part of her creative process. Though she has always considered herself an artist (much to do with the support of family who continuously encouraged her creative pursuits,) it wasn’t until after she graduated with a Bachelors of Design and Illustration that she began to explore the idea of a career in fine art. She worked as a tree planter in northern BC during the summers to allow herself the time and freedom to develop her creative voice, and fully immersed herself in the landscapes she would later paint. Danielle now resides in Squamish, B.C. where she continues her artistic journey exploring the connections between environment, love and art.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Born and raised on the west coast, Danielle spent her formative years exploring the mountains, forests and coastlines of BC, those experiences form the foundation of her artistic practice and remain an integral part of her creative process. Though she has always considered herself an artist (much to do with the support of family who continuously encouraged her creative pursuits,) it wasn’t until after she graduated with a Bachelors of Design and Illustration that she began to explore the idea of a career in fine art. She worked as a tree planter in northern BC during the summers to allow herself the time and freedom to develop her creative voice, and fully immersed herself in the landscapes she would later paint. Danielle now resides in Squamish, B.C. where she continues her artistic journey exploring the connections between environment, love and art.
WEBSITE: www.danyeti.ca
ARTIST: Maren Boedeker, 1962
LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario
MEDIA: acrylic, oil pastel, coloured pencil, paper collage on canvas
SIZE: 20 x 27 in
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: This painting reflects on me and my family finding a new home in Canada, developing roots after moving to Canada from Europe, feeling home and welcomed
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Maren Boedeker is an artist and educator currently based in Toronto. Born and raised in Germany, Maren earned an MA in Fine Arts and Art Education from the University of Fine Arts Münster, Germany. She received the artist-in-residence-award Liguria, Italy, from UFA Münster. Maren Boedeker was also awarded first place in the “Art for Europe” exhibition, curated by the European Community in Brussels, Belgium. Following her transition from Germany to Canada, she was selected for residencies in the AKIN Studio Program at the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (2019), Collision Gallery at Commerce Court Toronto (2020) and Auto BLDG (2022 and 2023). Various exhibitions have shown her work in both Canada and Europe. These include Hasselt Cultural Centre, Belgium; European Community Brussels, Belgium; Liesborn Abbey Museum, Germany; Museum of Contemporary Art, Toronto; Collision Gallery, Toronto; and the Ontario Society of Artists, Toronto. Her work is held in private, public, and corporate collections.
WEBSITE: www.marenboedeker.com
ARTIST: C.M. Duffy, 1985
LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario
MEDIA: Acrylic on cradled panel
SIZE: 24” x 30"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: My imagination is always searching for different perspectives and spins. On a trip through Georgian Bay, the organic shapes of the famous rocks that dot the coast evoked for me a bevy of amphibians and the windswept pines hinted at their buggy dinners
ABOUT THE ARTIST: C.M. Duffy holds a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. His paintings are hanging in private collections in the United States and Canada and he has accomplished many public works in his city of Toronto. In 2021, he worked with the Department of Canadian Heritage to bring a large installation of his work to both Ottawa's Confederation Park and Frankfurt, Germany, to celebrate Canada's Guest of Honour status at the Frankfurt Book Fair.
WEBSITE: www.CMDuffy.com
ARTIST: Jing Zhu, 1982
LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario
MEDIA: oil on canvas
SIZE: 24" x 36"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Following a significant snowstorm in Toronto in 2016, I harbored the desire to explore Edwards Garden, a renowned botanical garden in the city. Despite the bone-chilling -24 degrees Celsius temperature, I ventured forth. Amidst the deep snow, I paused to feel the intense cold air nipping at my nose. The sound of my footsteps echoes in the silence, the snow acting as a natural sound barrier. As the morning sun filtered through a delicate veil of fog enveloping the tall, leafless trees, I couldn't help but perceive the environment as pristine, almost detoxifying to the senses. Inhaling deeply, the air felt refreshing and pure.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Artist Jing Zhu was born in Beijing, graduated from Tianjin University, and is now a resident of Canada. Ms. Zhu has been passionate about art since childhood and has been engaged in artistic creation and design for many years since her arrival in Canada as an immigrant. Now she is Canada Council of the Arts New/Early Career Artist. Her art work "Sunset Serenity" has been honored to be invited to participate in the 2024 Venice International Art Biennale, Personal Structures, which will run from April 20 to November 24, 2024, in Venice, Italy. She expresses her gratitude to her art mentor, Mr. Zhao Da Fu for his guidance and encouragement over years in art. Mr. Zhao is a member of the China Artists Association, a former fine art editor at People's Fine Arts Publishing House of China, and the chief editor of Watercolor Art.
WEBSITE: www.jingzhu-art.ca
ARTIST: Maren Boedeker, 1962
LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario
MEDIA: acrylic, oil pastel, coloured pencil on canvas
SIZE: 24 x 24 in
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: For me, this painting captures the beauty of all the natural wonders I have seen and experienced in Canada, connected to the sky, such as Northern lights and beautiful night skies, but also connected to the various water bodies, rivers and lakes, the wild life, whale watching, etc.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Maren Boedeker is an artist and educator currently based in Toronto. Born and raised in Germany, Maren earned an MA in Fine Arts and Art Education from the University of Fine Arts Münster, Germany. She received the artist-in-residence-award Liguria, Italy, from UFA Münster. Maren Boedeker was also awarded first place in the “Art for Europe” exhibition, curated by the European Community in Brussels, Belgium. Following her transition from Germany to Canada, she was selected for residencies in the AKIN Studio Program at the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (2019), Collision Gallery at Commerce Court Toronto (2020) and Auto BLDG (2022 and 2023). Various exhibitions have shown her work in both Canada and Europe. These include Hasselt Cultural Centre, Belgium; European Community Brussels, Belgium; Liesborn Abbey Museum, Germany; Museum of Contemporary Art, Toronto; Collision Gallery, Toronto; and the Ontario Society of Artists, Toronto. Her work is held in private, public, and corporate collections.
WEBSITE: www.marenboedeker.com
ARTIST: Julia Dudareva, 1969
LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario
MEDIA: oil on canvas
SIZE: 24" x 20"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: My Canada is a kaleidoscope of small moments of the Great Beauty. Grey County has a beauty you cannot find anywhere else, such as the sunflowers covered with snow.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Julia Dudareva, Siberia-born artist whose passion for drawing and painting ignited in her soul from the years of her childhood. Julia moved to Canada when she was 35 years old, having an electrical engineering and software development background, but her artistic spirit thrived, painting endless landscapes in her mind's eye. Fascinated by Canada’s nature, Julia discovered the magic of the colours in stained glass work and oil painting. She started her art career at the age of 42. Her art works are all connected by the interplay of light and shadow of the colours.
WEBSITE: www.fluxandframe.ca
ARTIST: Daniel Lalonde, 1955
LOCATION: Montréal, Québec, Canada
MEDIA: acrylic and lightweight mortar on canvas
SIZE: 30'' X 36''
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Canada is a vast territory composed of immense plains, mountains, and isolated northern regions. This painting suggests a fictional Canadian northern landscape that explores the intersection between abstraction and figuration.
Le Canada est un vaste territoire qui se compose d'immenses plaines, de montagnes et de régions nordiques isolées. Cette peinture suggère un paysage du Nord canadien fictif qui explore la rencontre entre abstraction et figuration.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: I live and work in Montreal. I hold a master's degree in sociology and a certificate in visual arts from UQAM. I have taken jewelry-making courses at the Saydie Bronfman Centre, painting workshops with Seymour Segal and Carol Bernier, collagraphy workshops at Atelier Circulaire in Montreal, and a creative internship with Anna Sobierajski at the Maison de la Gravure Méditerranée in France in May 2019. I have been exploring visual arts since 2005, with a specific focus on painting for over fifteen years. Acrylic is my preferred medium. I am particularly fascinated by glazes and the exploration of textures. To date, I have participated in around twenty solo or group exhibitions at various venues in Quebec and France, including LM Studio in Hyères in May 2024. In recent years, my latest creations have become notably minimalist and suggest fictional northern landscapes that explore the intersection between abstraction and figuration.
Je vis et travaille à Montréal. Je suis titulaire d’une maîtrise en sociologie et d’un certificat en arts visuels de l’UQAM, j’ai suivi des cours en techniques de joaillerie au Centre Saydie Bronfman, des ateliers de peinture avec Seymour Segal, Carol Bernier et des ateliers de collagraphie à l’Atelier Circulaire à Montréal et un stage de création avec Anna Sobierajski à la Maison de la Gravure Méditerranée en France, en mai 2019. J’explore les arts visuels depuis 2005 et plus spécifiquement la peinture depuis plus de quinze ans. L’acrylique est mon médium de prédilection. Les glacis et la recherche de textures me fascinent tout particulièrement. À ce jour, j’ai participé à une vingtaine d’expositions solos ou collectives dans divers lieux au Québec et en France au LM Studio à Hyères en mai 2024. Depuis quelques années, mes dernières créations sont particulièrement dépouillées et suggèrent des paysages nordiques fictifs qui explorent la rencontre entre abstraction et figuration.
WEBSITE: www.daniellalondeart.com
ARTIST: Carole Finn
LOCATION: Victoria, British Columbia
MEDIA: Acrylic on Canvas
SIZE: 36" x 48"
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: In "My Canada," I endeavor to capture the natural beauty of Canada, from its southern trees, rocks, rivers, and lakes to the northern tundra. The preservation of these wilderness areas, threatened by human encroachment, is the central theme of my art. Through my paintings, I strive to elicit a deep emotional connection to the natural environment, emphasizing the challenges faced by the animal inhabitants. Each piece in this exhibition conveys a poignant plea for the protection and understanding of these endangered spaces, featuring animals that are emblematic of Canada's diverse wildlife.
In this painting,, "Moose and Calf "stroll across the highway that is the only access through Algonquin Park. The granite rocks of the Laurentian Shield provide a passage for the road, separating it from the forest. The calf's gaze questions our presence, emphasizing that this is their territory and we are the intruders.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Carole Finn, a Canadian artist, utilizes her passion for painting to honor and safeguard Canada’s untamed landscapes. Employing her extensive collection of iconic photographs, she meticulously creates visual and emotional representations of various locations. Carole employs various digital manipulations to construct captivating portrayals of landscapes and wildlife, enhancing them with vibrant colors, improved
value, and intricate details. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Carole is a committed educator who shares her love for art through teaching. She is known for seamlessly integrating technology with a deep understanding of art tools and a refined creative
process. Carole’s extensive art education includes studies at OCADU, York University, Sir Sandford Fleming College, and Durham College. Her contributions have been recognized through significant accolades and positions, including receiving the Queen’s Medal, serving as a Sir Sandford College Board governor, and earning a Fellowship of
Applied Education. Carole has also established HSFAD (school), Rails’ End PAG (gallery), and an Art Centre, with her Atelier based in Sooke, BC.
WEBSITE: www.carolefinnartist.com
ARTIST: Segun Aiyesan, 1971
LOCATION: Kitchener, Ontario
MEDIA: acrylic on textured canvas
SIZE: 36” x 36”
ABOUT THE ARTWORK: Sisters emphasises the theme of diversity and togetherness, which is something actively promoted to engender integration in Canada.
ABOUT THE ARTIST: Segun Aiyesan was born in Benin City, Nigeria, on March 18, 1971. His fascination with nature and colours started quite early. He could recall himself fiddling with drawings and paints as early as four years old. He is a totally self-taught artist and has pursued art professionally since 1997. He has a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Nigeria. He holds an Honorary Doctorate degree for exemplary practice in his chosen field. He is currently the Chairman of Society of Nigerian Artists, Rivers chapter. He has exhibited widely with success in Europe, North America and Africa. He is currently resident and based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada.
WEBSITE: www.segunaiyesanart.com