Tag Archives: fine art

FLY RECOMMENDS…..

As the art world winds down its year, FLY has found some great shows in Toronto that she recommends you do not miss.

First off is a double show at the Paul Petro Contemporary Art Gallery located at 980 Queen St West in downtown Toronto. First is Shell Sounding Long – Boring Earth running November 15 to December 21st, with the opening reception in Nov 15th 7-10pm. Artists are an earth-based collective concerned with building more-than-human mutualisms and relations among living environments. It’s a collaboration between Patrick Cruz and Laila Fox, and a slippery roster of rocky, watery, animal, vegetal, and bacterial bodies. Details on website, linked below.Running at the same time is Za zay gaa mitig by Michel Dumont. Za zay gaa mitig is Ojibway for “decorated tree”. Pictured below are his forget-me-not mosaic ornaments. The motif is inspired by Métis and Ojibway florals that make up the flora of the Robinson Treaty area. The exhibition will morph into a grouping of allies and familiars come the opening of the galley’s Christmas Spice on November 29.Paul Petro Contemporary Art has been exhibiting Canadian and international artists by invitation since 1993, and has become a stalwart of the Queen Street West arts & culture community. Paul has an extensive curatorial background and takes great care in presenting shows that provoke, intrigue and engage. Details of present and future shows + artists represented: www.paulpetro.com

TORONTO’S KIRK SUTHERLAND SHARES HIS COLOURFUL, ENERGETIC CANVASES & HIS THOUGHTS ON THE CREATIVE PROCESS

For several years, FLY has been following Kirk Sutherland‘s canvas stories painted in vibrant colours with shapes and swirls that draw the viewer in to create one’s own story and meaning.  FLY was first introduced to Kirk at Urban Gallery in downtown Toronto where he presented a solo show several years ago, and it was love at first sight! The large energetic canvases practically jumped off the walls, drawing gallery visitors in and engaging them in conversations with each other and with the artist himself.  FLY recently checked in on Kirk and asked him to share his thoughts on his work and arts in general…..

What (or who) first inspired you to take up a career in art?  For me it was never a matter of being inspired nor have I ever considered what I do as a career. Everyone comes here with a life purpose; some may never know what that purpose is and others do. I recall from an early age I inherently followed what was naturally instinctive to me. I was inventing, creating and building things almost unconsciously. There wasn’t a logical reason, it was simply a process and something I had to do.  Making art is an extension of who I am, call it a mission from my higher self.Where did you study or are you predominantly self-taught?  I graduated from OCADU from The Faculty of Experimental Arts where I studied for 4 years intensely. I was there during what could be defined as the Golden Age of OCAD. Between 1987 to 1991, I studied under some of Canada’s masters: trailblazers like Graham Coughtry, Gordon Rayner, Paul Sloggett, Dan Solomon, Jim Tiley and Robert Hedrick. I was also honoured to spend two years studying colour with Francois Thepot who gained an international reputation as an artist, designer and color theorist. In my opinion he was cut from the same cloth as Joseph Albers. Through his guidance I quickly realized that there are no limits to the element of colour.You have such a vibrant & colourful palette – are there certain colours that “speak” to you or guide you across the canvas?  I tend to paint with chords, not notes. My old professor Paul Sloggett coined that phrase. What I mean is there are so many hues within each colour.  Every colour, shade, tint and tone has its own identity. Every colour has a unique chromatic DNA. The process of working with colour is more aligned to the synergy one may have in a romantic interaction. In reality every color has purpose and meaning and each one holds equal importance, whether subtle and introverted or extroverted and intense.  You experience synesthesia which enables you to use all your senses when tackling a painting – can you explain what that’s all about?  Having synesthesia is a neurodivergent reality So my brain does not function like a neuro-typical brain does. As far as creating and painting is concerned, I find myself in a balanced position between the conscious plane of existence and the more ethereal. My creative process is partially choreographed and deliberately linked with a need to surrender control to spontaneity, intuitiveness. It’s much like a merging of classical compositional practice with the unconscious realities of serendipity and the unknown. My paintings dwell in the realm of the unseen and metaphysical where innovation and ingenuity are paramount. With this being said I purposely seek to feel a degree of discomfort for the purposes of not becoming predictable.Obviously, Covid shut down in-person gallery exhibition opportunities – how did that affect your working habits?  Covid didn’t really affect me directly because I’m an introvert and I generally spend long periods of time away from people. It didn’t really matter to me, in fact, I was quite comfortable the whole time. Shutdowns probably helped to eliminate any distraction which may have existed, hypothetically speaking. I work and live alone in a quiet space where originality exists as well as my enormous need for independence. I do have a lot of empathy for the many galleries and businesses that didn’t survive the lockdowns.2023 resulted in several high-profile shows for you, what gallery events are planned for Kirk Sutherland this year?  I’m anticipating a few shows in Toronto this year. I will also potentially be collaborating in a couple of projects which, at this point, are only in the conceptual stage of development. I have great gratitude for whatever is made available to me.

Any advice for emerging artists looking for career inspiration?  My greatest advice is to educate yourself and become a student of art history. There is no such thing as pure creativity, everything has an origin and we must be influenced. It is also vitally important to observe the world and be true to yourself, because there are only two genres of art – honest and dishonest. Also be willing to experiment and take risks. For true art is not meant to be decoratively precious, but instead it’s an extension of who we authentically are within. Lastly, believe in yourself and overcome the challenge of self-doubt, because art making is a purely solitary act. Only create art that you want to see!

If you would like to learn more about Kirk Sutherland, visit his website at:  https://www.kirksutherland.com/  And follow him on IG & Fcbk (linked via his website)

MEET WEST AUSTRALIAN ARTIST STACY GARDOLL

A couple of years ago, FLY read on one of her Australian fine arts Facebook groups about a stunning new exhibition at the Zig Zag Gallery in Kalamunda, FLY’s old home town in Western Australia. The show featured the most spectacular gumtree blossoms painted on over-sized canvases and they were jaw-droppingly beautiful. The artist was STACY GARDOLL and FLY knew she had found her “spirit artist”. When FLY went home in 2022, it was just prior to learning about the gallery otherwise a personal visit would have happened but at least FLY can share Stacy’s story and her art, which is available for international shipping should you also be wowed by the large originals or prints. Stacy kindly responded to FLY’s interview request and she shared insights into her work and her life and career inspirations….Stacy, what first motivated you to pick up a paintbrush and start creating?  I’ve been painting in different forms since high school, and it was there that I first started. As a student, I went on a week-long art camp to Rottnest (a beautiful little island off the WA coast famous for its quokkas), which was organized by the Art Gallery of Western Australia, where we rode our bikes and stopped to paint what we saw. It really changed the way I saw landscapes, and I mixed colours. It was also the first time I’d spent time with other like-minded people who loved art as much as I did! You have such a bold and distinctive style – did this come naturally or were you inspired by other artists?  The boldness probably comes from my years working as a theatre set designer and painter. It was an aspect of the designing process which I particularly enjoyed, and over time my designs took on a very painterly aesthetic.  As for the painting style itself, it evolved over time. Theatre scenery is obviously seen from a distance, under stage lighting, so painted elements need to be very textured and high-contrast in order to not look washed out or flat. This has definitely informed the way that I paint now – I much prefer high-contrast, saturated colours. This way I can paint what I see, but heighten different elements to highlight and set the botanicals apart from the background. Combined with the large scale of most of my work, it can also give a sense of drama. (below, Stacy with her Cinderella village scenery) Your botanical “portraits” are spectacular – have flowers always appealed to you as subjects for your canvases? Your landscapes are also vibrant and full of energy – which do you prefer?  At the moment, I’m loving botanicals, but I’m certainly not locked in to any genre. I used to paint botanicals in my teens, and have always loved painting and drawing. I remember painting some close-up botanicals way back then, but thinking they weren’t possibly going to lead anywhere. Funny how life turns out!

I will always love landscapes though, and still look at the world through “frames”, much like photographers must do. It’s a way of seeing which is always with you, once you learn it. I grew up in Lesmurdie back in the 60s & 70s, on the crest of a hill overlooking the city of Perth. Back then it was considered “the bush” and our ½ acre block was full of wild flowers and tall trees. Are you lucky to live surrounded by gumtrees and wild indigenous plants or do you contend with close neighbours and “artificial” gardens?  That would have been amazing growing up in such an untamed environment – I would have loved that! I grew up in Swanbourne, so was always drawn to the coast, and particularly loved being near the water. The beach still feels like “coming home” to some degree.
Where we’re living now is considered the foothills- so we really have the best of the bush at our doorstep, whilst also being close to the city when we want to be. We have a regular block, which I’m in the process of replanting with lots of Australian natives – I’m really looking forward to being able to paint WA native species from my own backyard.

Can Canadian or US art lovers purchase your work and have shipped over? (obviously purchaser would pay for shipping).  Absolutely – original paintings can be sent framed or unframed, and paper or canvas prints can easily be sent in a tube. Do you have any upcoming shows and if so, where and when?  Yes, I’m having my very own Open Studio next month, on April 28th, which is really exciting.  I participate in the Mundaring Hills Open Studios event every October, so I know what to expect, but it is really great to be having my own Open Studio event. It’s a wonderful way for visitors to view my art, and talk to me in my relaxed home environment. It’s a lovely chance to talk about the process and to show people my workspace, as well as the finished pieces.
I’m also participating in a group exhibition in September, which will be at the Moores Building, in Fremantle. There are 9 botanical and still life artists involved, including myself- and we all have thoroughly different styles and approaches. It will be called “Perfectly Still.”Stacy, thank you so much for chatting with FLY and I can assure you, FLY will be a fan for life!  Some of your work shows the giant dinosaur-like cranes in Fremantle – something FLY witnessed herself and had one of those ooo-aaah moments driving by. Love these pieces…
If you want to learn more about this talented Aussie artist, please visit Stacy’s website and follow her on Instagram.
https://stacygardollart.com.au/    IG: @stacygardollart

ART TORONTO WELCOMES OVER 100 NATIONAL & INT’L GALLERIES, INSTALLATIONS, PROJECT SPACES, and more!

FLY was thrilled to be invited to the “media day” preview of this year’s ART TORONTO art fair and it was exciting to meet new artists and galleries as wellas lots of favourites like the McMichael Gallery which was front and centre at the top of the escalator. FLY was fortunate to view their current Tom Thomson exhibition and they were busy promoting their upcoming show…. https://mcmichael.com/
Just around the corner from McMichael was Montreal’s www.Blouin-division.com featuring the stunning “bead” works of Renne Condo. FLY then discovered a new gallery along Dundas West (website coming) Zaal Art Gallery and the charming booth hosts welcomed questions about the art, esp. the 3rd image below – what do you see? The artist has actually painted his face mid-shaving – it’s a foamy portrait.

FLY was welcomed into the booth of Halifax-based IOTA Gallery and the lovely ladies representing Nova Scotia artists were happy to share news of their gallery and works on display.

And IOTA’s artist Carrie Allison creates unique and intriguing soft sculptures such as these, below….Next door FLY found this small booth packed with lots of art books. Aperture is based in New York City and run by a very knowledgeable Richard Gregg. http://www.aperture.org
FLY was looking for BC-based Jean Paul Langlois (FLY has one of his stunning prints on her wall) and found 2 of his paintings represented by The New Other Gallery – it was a stunning booth with a couple of secret nooks containing other fabulous works, including the large blue and gold work by Jaspal Birdi. Definitely recommend checking out: wearethenewother.com
So many cool booths, however, only a few of the artists and gallery directors/curators were on-site for this media day event. Sadly, FLY could not interview anyone else but took a lot of photos for you.

FLY always looks forward to Sandra Ainsley‘s big exhibition booth – she represents many superstars of the art glass world including Dale Chihuly of whom FLY is such a fan. This year’s booth did not disappoint! Bravo, Sandra.  https://sandraainsleygallery.com/

Thank you to the Art Toronto show producers and good luck to all the galleries working hard to promote Canadian and international artists. The show opens tomorrow, Friday Oct. 27 and runs throughout the weekend. Check out times and details: https://arttoronto.ca/

RIVERDALE ARTWALK WELCOMES CROWDS ON SUNNY SATURDAY

FLY was thrilled to walk the aisles of tents overflowing with beautiful artworks today at the Riverdale Artwalk on Queen St East- the annual outdoor art show runs tomorrow (Sunday) so get yourselves down there to support local artists. Lovely to run into old friends and discover some exciting new artists so join FLY as we talk a virtual stroll around the park.  First tent FLY saw was that of Elena Dinissuk whose bright pink top looked lovely against the backdrop of her stunning abstract land/skyscapes. www.elenadinissuk.caFurther down the aisle, FLY found a very cheerful David Harcombe, surrounded by sparklers and urban signs. www.davidharcombe.caThen FLY flew into the next booth belonging to Tueai La who surrounded herself with her beautiful florals. www.tueaila.ca Jen Raetsen creates beautiful “wool paintings” – yes, that’s right. She uses coloured wool to form gorgeous lux images and FLY was so taken with them that a tiny miniature (3rd pic) ended up going home with her. www.jenraetsenart.com Jeff Walker is a real fun artist. FLY has a cute robot from last year’s event and here are even more little creatures and ‘bots to enjoy. www.gowalkergo.com FLY was thrilled to discover Eric Allen Montgomery, a mixed-media artist who creates cool works with “found” stuff! So many things to discover in each artwork and Eric and his lovely partner (they had just returned from their honeymoon) were decked out in Eric’s digital design clothing. www.EricAllenMontgomery.ca FLY was intrigued by Eric’s art dispenser, an old candy machine, so decided to have a go….this mini-masterpiece came out – it’s a wee sliver with so much going on…love it.Glad to see Carolyn Laidley Arn (below) standing on guard…apart from her large paintings, she’s created some miniatures that are perfect for small walls (if you live in a condo, you know what I mean)  <ahref=”http://www.carolynlaidleyarn.com”>www.carolynlaidleyarn.comBeing a proud mum, Carolyn directed FLY across the aisle to her daughter’s booth (below) but she was so busy with visitors, FLY didn’t disturb her.Gail Williams was surrounded by bold colours and giant abstract portraits. Her booth was very joyful. www.gailwilliamsartist.com
Kate Taylor was busy filming her booth with her sister but FLY would like to acknowledge Kate’s commitment to supporting other artists at Riverdale Artwalk every year. Definitely a “friend of Fly”.  www.katetaylorstudio.com
Lori Mirabelli was hard at work with potential buyers when FLY dropped in. Lori’s art has been selling well in Europe, too. Congrats on all your hard work, Ms. M.  www.lorimirabelli.com FLY loves Mark Gleberzon‘s bold Barbie portraits, esp. the pink pompadour wigged dolls. Now if only FLY could shape her eyebrows as well as Barbie’s….sigh! That gold monolith looks amazing in person – all textured and shiny.  www.markgleberzon.com Mark’s gallery mate, Morgan Jones (below) was full o’ beans in his booth…stand still, Morgan. Gotcha!  www.morganjonesart.com
Another newbie artist for FLY was Lynn Cragg who is obviously a real horsey person. She also loves cows and owls and sheep….can’t wait to write a story on her for The Rider newspaper that focuses on country life and the equine world. www.lynncraggfineart.com It was hard to even get into Cat Marchese‘s tent – her photographic studies of vintage bricks were very popular. The lady in pink (below) was busy chatting to new collectors – bravo, Cat!  www.citybonez.com Finally, FLY stopped into one of the busiest booths today, belonging to Neerja Trehan just as she was selling two paintings to two different art lovers. Congrats and bravo you, Neerja! www.neerjatrehan.com And FLY was very touched when Neerja gifted her with this beautiful handcrafted candle in thanks for continued artist support – you are so welcome, Neerja.The art show continues tomorrow, Sunday June 4th, at Jimmy Simpson Park, Queen St East. More info at: www.riverdaleartwalk.ca

ROSEDALE ART FAIR THIS WEEKEND @ RAMSDEN PARK, TORONTO

Thank goodness the weather cooperated today with more sunshine than raindrops, and FLY was able to buzz around the artists’ tents of this year’s ROSEDALE ART FAIR – the first time for nearly 3 years, thanks to Covid. Usually held further up Toronto’s Yonge Street at Summerhill, the park setting was lovely with lots of green grass and leaves.
FLY’s first port of call was the charming display by Michelle Hutchinson – her abstract florals were so colourful you’d expect to see bees hoping from flower to flower!  www.MichelleHutchinsonArt.com…and next door to Michelle was Gail Williams whose paintings were fun and filled with wonder. www.gailwilliamsartist.com  FLY particularly like one titled “Prince” so here’s a closer look… Sculptor Chaka Chikodzi always has a busy tent…FLY had to do some pretty fancy flying between his potential buyers just to get a couple of great close-ups!  www.chakachikodzi.com  Mark J. Gleberzon has been a friend of FLY’s for many years, and his work is definitely a favourite of the winged-one! Mark recently had great success exhibiting in Chicago, selling multiple paintings and even before today’s Fair opened, he had already sold 2 of his Barbie & Ken pop portraits. Bravo, MJG!  www.markgleberzon.com Jibola Fagbamiye was too busy selling his fabulous portraits to stop and chat with FLY – bravo Jibola- but FLY grabbed a few shots of his booth in action!  www.jibolastudios.comThe weather started to cloud over so to avoid getting wings wet, FLY flew over to another aisle sheltered under the trees and immediately stopped when spying FLY’s favourite colour…cobalt blue…at Andrew Stelmack‘s booth. www.astelmack.com  Next door was another FLY favourite, Michael Toole, who greeted FLY with another gorgeous blue graphic artwork! www.michaeltooleart.comMeet the delightful Ghazaleh Naderian who showed FLY around her booth, filled with beautiful floral mini-paintings. Perfect for that little space you need to brighten up.  www.ghazal-arts.com
FLY’s bestie, Erena, ran into one of her favourite artists, Olaf Schneider – she has a number of his paintings herself. Those parrots were magnificent but scared FLY somewhat as they like eating little insects….oh dear!  www.olaf.ca  
You still have another opportunity to visit the Rosedale Art Fair tomorrow, Sunday June 12 so please go visit and say hi to all the artist – they’re so pleased to get back to “normal” and show their work to art lovers and (hopefully) buyers. 

TORONTO’s ARTISTS’ NETWORK CELEBRATES NEW HOME WITH AN EXCITING EXHIBITION

Last night (Wed. Nov. 6) FLY was thrilled to be invited to the official opening of The Artists’ Network new digs in downtown Toronto. Located in the vibrant cultural community of Leslieville at 1158 Queen St East, the gallery hosts a juried exhibition of Artists’ Network members that includes original works inspired by a broad interpretation of the theme MOMENTUM, from the act of moving forward to the poetics of spiritual growth. FLY was invited to the celebratory soiree by the fabulous Connie Gorsline who posed in front of her wonderfully energetic seascape (below)The gallery filled quickly with members and fans of fine art ….….who discovered lots of stunning artworks on the walls…….and FLY was pleased to see a favourite photographic art piece by Lori Ryerson (below)And here’s Connie with fellow artist Nancy Bennett (below) enjoying a glass of cheer and the great company!Congratulations to Kate Taylor and the entire Board of The Artists’ Network in securing such an amazing new HQ, and FLY recommends a personal visit to see the talent contained within its walls. The current show runs until November 24 (see details below) and to learn more about the organization and upcoming events, visit their website: www.theartistsnetwork.ca 

URBAN GALLERY WELCOMES 1st YR STUDENTS FROM CENTENNIAL COLLEGE FINE ARTS STUDIO PROGRAM

This past Saturday, Toronto’s URBAN GALLERY hosted the opening reception for the annual student art exhibition from the Centennial College Fine Arts Studio Program and what a resounding success it was! Within minutes of opening the door to the show titled “Syzygy”, the gallery was packed with enthusiastic art students and their families excited to view their work hanging on the walls – their first experience with a professional gallery. Here are just a few of the exciting works on show…. “SYZYGY” is described as: Everyone has a colourful story…this is ours!  An alignment of celestial creations by Toronto’s emerging art stars from Centennial College Fine Arts Studio program.
This year’s participating students are:  Hiba Abdul-Kareem, Edwin De Villa, Janset Evcimen, Lauren Faughnan, Alice Gong, Adriana Gruszka, An Ho, Manasi Joshi, Vaishak Muralidharan, Yenny Nguyen, Peter Onovo, Haewon Park, Ye Jin Park, Kyeongmin Park, Walter Penado-Vasquez, Shreya Praveen, Paul Rajan, Selenea Rikkonen, Talha Saaed, Erik Sanderson, Alexis Santha, Alexandra Seventikidis, Ghanwa Shahnawaz, Darja Sikorova, Cameron Tausch, Noah Tuomisto, Ruby Urlocker and Madeline Wong-Mayhew
Congratulations to all the participating young artists whose work will be on display until March 30th so come out and support these emerging Canadian artists. URBAN GALLERY is located at 400 Queen St East, Toronto – just 1 blk E of Parliament.
Visit their website for hours and directions:  www.urbangallery.ca