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Author: monikablichar
Only 9 Days Away!
A message from the Producer: Monika Blichar
Every year, I get to create this amazing event that always exceeds my expectations. Not only do we have amazing vendors each year, we also find interesting performers, speakers, host live and silent auctions as well as have a world class body painting competition. This year is no exception to our previous 7 installments! There are amazing vendors and people involved and like all years before, this year is going to be something special not to be missed!
Our theme this year is “Eco-Sustainability” and I encourage everyone who is both participating and involved to be sure to keep the theme in mind. Make a plastic bag dress or find something vintage or DIY that you can wear this year!
Judy Anne D. Galdones art work reflects the beauty in nature.
Whisk Matcha will be offering Matcha Frappucinos and Lattes among other delicious and healthy options!
Have a pet? We will even have locally made accessories for your dogs and cats!
You’ll find an array of eco-conscious fashion, art, and accessories at the show this year for sale just in time for Mother’s Day gifts. Be sure to ask the vendors about their work and products-we have everything from eco-friendly make up to art, accessories, fashion and even the Tower Garden to help you practice the Art of Gardening all year round! Patricia Plackett from the David Suzuki Foundation will be speaking as well and her talk “Perils of Apparel: the environmental impacts of what you wear” will be surely interesting and enlightening. To compliment the talk, we have a fashion show by Jessica Redditt Designs who makes eco friendly fashion which is made in Vancouver and hand dyed with botanical pigments. Further, we will also have a hula hoop class to get your bodies moving as well as refreshments and food from Cariboo Brewing, Whisk Matcha, Zeina’s Chocolate Boutique, Mike’s Perfect Perogy and Cheeses Crust Food Truck.
Tower Garden so you can grow your own food all year!
Murray the Dragon-A book by Cristina Petersen and Illustrated by Monika Blichar
Coastal Storm Gallery will have Native Art
Native Art Jewellery from Coastal Storm Gallery
Aveda is providing all hair for our fashion show by Jessica Redditt Designs.
Did you know Cariboo Brewing is planting trees when you buy? In April they planted over 4400 trees!
Ryan Broderick will have sculptures made of razor blades.
Sonia Burke-Smith is coming from Fort McMurray, Alberta with Boreal Artist Institute and will be showcasing colourful art work inspired by nature and her indigenous inspired background.”
One of my favourite themes so far I think! I can’t wait to see all the eco-sustainable inspired art as well as all the body painting that people are creating around this theme! Be sure to order your ticket here! Don’t miss out and be sure to register for our first beach clean up on June 3 here.
Interview with Caitey Gilchrist Creative
by Monika Blichar
As an artist, it can be hard to think about many areas of business. Lots of creatives are very talented in the actual making of art work, but many fall short in areas of marketing, business and branding. For some reason, it is the last thing that artists want to think about; their top priority as making art.
In reality, branding is one of the most important areas of business as this is what the public recognizes when they think of a company. Good branding means that people can spot your company just by looking at the logo-a symbol unique to that business. Bad branding leaves the consumer confused about what the company and often causes a lack of confidence in a business. Today, I caught up with Caitey Gilchrist Creative to ask her about her branding business as she will be at our event this year!
1-What is Caitey Gilchrist Creative?
Caitey Gilchrist Creative helps entrepreneurs live their passion and connect with their audience through their core message. Through branding, graphic design and online business resources, I help individuals translate who they are into a visual identity that speaks to their audience.
2-When did you know you wanted to start your own business?
I’ve always had the entrepreneurial drive, and I started offering my services in 2011.
3-What is your favourite part about helping creative people with their brands?
Knowing that I’m helping someone propel their practice forward is my favourite thing about what I do. I love translating their vision into something beautiful that serves a very practical purpose.
4-What will you be offering at Art World Expo? Any special promotions or products exclusively for AWE guests?
Yes! Until May 31, 2018, Art World Expo guests can receive 15% off any branding design package.
5-Where would you like to see your business in 5 years’ time?
This is an exciting question! Branding is just one way that I’m currently helping creatives and entrepreneurs pursue their passions. The big focus for me is on providing education and tools for people who are ready to forge their own path. Over the next five years, I’ll be focusing on spreading these resources as far as possible through public speaking, training and online courses.
6-Just for fun: What is your all-time favourite thing to do when you have free time?
I love standing in nature and experiencing the moment.
Caitey Gilchrist is a brand consultant, design geek, and creative for life. Through her company, Caitey Gilchrist Creative, she helps entrepreneurs connect to their audience through branding and visual communication. Caitey is set on creating new opportunities for small business brands through education, collaboration, and support. She works on this vision daily through her one-on-one services, branding courses, and through her involvement in local business groups in surrounding communities. To learn more about Caitey, visit www.caiteygilchrist.com To attend the 8th annual Art World Expo, order your tickets via this link! 
Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.
Interview with Celina Miller of MoonLight Studios
by Monika Blichar
I love seeing artists emerge in our community because it shows me that one more person is being courageous. Being an artist takes a lot of self confidence and risk not only because they don’t know when they will sell something or be commissioned, but also because they put work out there for the world to react to. Some people will fall in love with what they do, many won’t. Some people will support the arts, but many won’t know how to respond to creative works.
What I have noticed over the years is that many people don’t realize the hours and hours of work it takes to be an artist. From working on pieces in between jobs to spending each weekend at markets and shows promoting your own work. Being an artist not only takes courage, it also takes persistence, determination and motivation to continue despite fear, failure, or hard work. For these reasons, I am always so proud of emerging artists and creators. Today, I catch up with Celina Miller of MoonLight Studios whose work is often created in the moon light hours while her family is sleeping, but who also prides herself sharing her passion with her family and now, with the art world.
1-When did you start making art?
I started as soon as I was old enough to hold felts or crayons or a paint brush. I remember being a kid and painting my bedside table (I got in serious trouble) but I just needed to create, no matter what it was.
2-What is your preferred medium to use?
Paint and canvas is my all time favourite and I gravitate towards that more then others but I have worked with many different mediums.
3-What inspires you to create?
Honestly, everything inspires me. The colour of the leaves, the waves of the ocean, the swimming of an orca, the wings of a bird flying, the blades of grass, the different colours of sand on a beach, my husband, my daughter, my dogs, I honestly find inspiration everywhere I look!
Honestly, everything inspires me. The colour of the leaves, the waves of the ocean, the swimming of an orca, the wings of a bird flying, the blades of grass, the different colours of sand on a beach, my husband, my daughter, my dogs, I honestly find inspiration everywhere I look!
4-Will you have any special promotions or new releases for AWE guests?
This is my first real art show so all the pieces I will be painting will be new releases for me.
5-Where would you like to see your art business in the next five years?
I would love to be doing this full time, having my own studio, my art in a gallery, my name out there in the art world. I’m excited for all the things to come for me!
I would love to be doing this full time, having my own studio, my art in a gallery, my name out there in the art world. I’m excited for all the things to come for me!
6-Just for fun: Where would you go on vacation if you could go anywhere in the world?
My dream vacation would be Europe. Greece, Italy, France, the art, the culture, the food, I would love it all!
My dream vacation would be Europe. Greece, Italy, France, the art, the culture, the food, I would love it all!
For more information about Celina, visit her Facebook Page. Be sure to purchase your ticket to the 8th annual event and support Celina by using her affiliate link here.
Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.
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Interview with Copper Paw Designs-Meow!
by Monika Blichar
There’s a lot that I respect about people who can sew. First, they can fix, alter, hem or update a lot of their own clothes which is super cool. Second, they can create new designs and pieces that no one else has, which is also super cool. Last, they are carrying with them an art form that for me, feels like it is slipping away from mainstream society. I mean, how many people do you know you can actually sew and design?
My dog Gianni in Copper Paw Designs
Today, I caught up with Laura Fader from Copper Paw Designs. I met her in 2017 and she participated in our Christmas Fair selling her hand made harnesses and bandannas for pets. If you know me, you’ll know that I LOVE my dogs and that I have never been shy about dressing them up or giving them fun accessories. (My Pomeranian Gianni I think is actually more obsessed with clothes than I am!) Laura will be showing and selling again at our main event and for you pet lovers out there, this is a great opportunity to either find something for your pet from a pet fashionista or even ask for a commission for your furry friend!
My dogs Odie and Atlas in Copper Paw Designs!
1-When did you start Copper Paw Designs?
It is coming up on two years this summer.
2-What do you make and what services do you offer?
I started off just making walking harnesses for my cats and then it expanded to rabbits, small dogs, and even guinea pigs! After a few requests I added bow ties and bandannas to the mix as well.
3-Do you have a pet of your own?
I have three crazy Bengal cats. Remy, Luna and Rocket.
4-Do you have a favourite aspect about designing for animals?
I love the fact that my harnesses allow animals to get out on adventures and explore places they otherwise may not have been able to see.
5-Where do you see your business in 5 years time?
I would love to see my products in a few pet stores in the future
6-Just for fun: If you had a million dollars, what would you do with it?
I would build a huge outdoor enclosure for my cats and would probably go on a fabric shopping spree for myself. You can never have enough fabric!
To learn more about Copper Paw Designs, visit www.copperpawdesigns.ca and be sure to visit her at our 8th annual Art World Expo on May 11, 2018 at Science World. Our event is not to be missed this year-get your tickets here!
Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.
Matcha Matcha-Read All About It!
by Monika Blichar
I always love to incorporate new and interesting products and businesses into Art World Expo. With each year’s theme, there’s ample opportunity to reach out to community partners who are unique and different but who can add an element of interest to our show. This year, I am pleased to have Whisk Matcha at our event not only because the owner Kimmy is so kind and sweet, but also because her company offers a product that is both good for health and committed to organic matcha production. I caught up with her to learn more about her company today! Enjoy!
1-When did you start Whisk Matcha?
Officially August 2016
2-What is Matcha?
Matcha is shade-grown, finely ground Japanese green tea.
3-What are the health benefits of drinking Matcha?
Matcha is possibly THE healthiest super food one can find.
Because of its meticulous production process, you’re consuming the entire tea leaves which contain full nutrients such as high concentration of green tea antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Besides, by drinking Matcha you can also ingest oil soluble constituents (Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Beta-carotene, etc.), which are not extracted into water when brewed. Brewing tea in the traditional way is kind of like eating spinach by boiling it in a pot but throwing out the vegetable and just drinking spinach water, you end up chucking 80% of the nutritional value and benefits into the compost bin.
Matcha has an amino acid called L-Theanine; L-Theanine can improve mental focus and clarity in a slow-released way. It won’t give you the jittery feeling that coffee does to your body. Matcha tea leaves need to be covered from direct sunlight for 20 – 30 days before harvest. This shading process boosts the plants’ chlorophyll level; chlorophyll is a natural detoxifier that will cleanse the heavy metal and daily pollution out of your body. You’ll feel like a whole new you with every cup of good matcha.
One key antioxidant that matcha is loaded with is called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) Catechin. EGCG is proven for its benefits of treating cancers, and can also improve your immune system, stabilize blood sugar levels, promote fat burning, and boost metabolism.
4-How is Matcha sourced? Are there any eco-friendly initiatives around harvesting matcha tea that help the environment?
Matcha is not created equally. Our matcha is directly from organic family tea farms in Kyoto Japan. Organic farming means a lot to me and our brand, because it’s good for people, eco system and our soil. Matcha plants cannot survive through the shading process (due to very limited energy from the sun) without an enriched soil, and we’re committed in sourcing matcha grown from NATRUALLY enriched soil, not by industrial strength fertilizers. Our tea farms/owners take incredibly good care and practices of the tea plants.
5-Will you have any show specials on products, matcha tea parties, or services exclusive to Art World Expo on May 11?
Yes we will offer 10 – 15% discount on select products at Art World Expo.
6-Where do you see your business in 5 years time?
I’m hoping to open a matcha-focused tea tasting room in Vancouver.
7-Just for fun: If you could time travel, where would you go?
I’d like to go back to the 12th – 16th century in China. Love the culture, poetry and apparels.
Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.
To learn more about Whisk Matcha, visit https://www.facebook.com/whiskmatcha https://www.instagram.com/whiskmatchayvr/ https://twitter.com/matchawhisker Be sure to get your ticket to the 8th Annual Art World Expo at Science World. Our theme this year is Eco-Sustainability so be sure to dress in an Eco-Sustainable ensemble, create your own statement piece from plastic bags or make your voice heard for our environment. Tickets are available in limited quantities here.
Art World Expo-Artists in Cars with Judy Anne D. Gondales
by Monika Blichar
Judy came into our exhibitor roster just a few months ago but I feel like I’ve known her for centuries! Not only is she talented and a wonderful creative, but also an amazing humanitarian. She donates a portion of her sales to a High School in the Philippines to support a graduate towards their further education. I always love when artists use their platform to help others and definitely appreciate the effort Judy is making to help a young teen about to embark into post-secondary education.
I caught up with this bubbly artist in our next interview for our Artists in Cars series in this Genesis Richmond G-80 Sport courtesy of Genesis Richmond’s Jennifer Friesen. Thank you Project Her Inc. for supporting our community of artists! Enjoy the interview and be sure to stop by Judy’s exhibit at the 8th Annual Art World Expo on May 11, 2018. Get your tickets here!
Art World Expo: Artists in Cars-Carolyn Bruce Designs
by Monika Blichar
Humble. Shy. Sweet. Thoughtful. Courteous. Generous. Hidden Gem.
When I think of Carolyn Bruce, these are the words that first come to my mind. She is not only a wonderful soul who beats to her own drum in the Vancouver arts scene, she is truly one of the nicest, most thoughtful and caring people you will meet. I remember when she first came to my old studio on Pemberton Avenue in North Vancouver in 2013 or so to show me her work to be juried for the Art World Expo. She lugged this big black trunk looking luggage case up the stairs and was so quiet and reserved. She was so still and her accent reminded me of a sweet aunt growing up-perhaps Mary Poppins kind of too. When she opened her case, I was stunned. (Literally, I think my jaw hit the floor with a thud as I set my gaze on her wondrous, magical and other-worldly creations.) I had to look back at her a few times because I couldn’t grasp that this sweet lady who was so polite and courteous could make these wild designs, over the top trinkets and fancy contraptions. It was like seeing the work of Mr. Hyde while Dr. Jekyll was presenting..not sure if that’s the right order for those guys, but I think you know what I mean!
Since then, I’ve grown fond of working with Carolyn. She is one of those rare people who is so generous with her time, resources and work it restores your faith back into humanity. Carolyn has participated in our event for four years now and each year, she supports our event by telling others to attend or participate, donating works to the auctions, baking cookies for volunteer meetings and even making dog treats for our dogs. She knows we are busy and doesn’t want to leave the dogs feeling unloved when we are crazy! It’s truly just amazing how much she thinks of others and making sure that everyone feels good in her presence.
One day Carolyn, I know you will be a big eclectic creative billionaire right up there with Louis Vuitton and Lady Gaga! You’re one person that I know truly deserves it not only because you’re ferociously creative (often lacking sleep making beautiful things for clients and shows) but also one genuine person in the Art World. Stay that way forever! XO
Enjoy our interview together in this Genesis Richmond G-80 Sport courtesy of Genesis Richmond’s Jennifer Friesen. Thank you Project Her Inc. for supporting our community of artists.
Art World Expo-Artists in Cars with Sarah, Lynn, Aidan and Pampadour the Giraffe
by Monika Blichar
Interviewing people in the Genesis G-80 the last couple of weeks has been incredible. Not only did I have the opportunity to learn more about the people who are participating in Art World Expo more, I also enjoyed riding around in a sweet luxury ride for two weeks! Boy did heads turn-people just seem to love the look of this car and haven’t been afraid to ask questions about what it is! It’s been really great and not just because of the whole new luxury car thing, it’s been really special because of the relationships that these video interviews have nurtured.
Today I caught up with Sarah, Lynn and Aidan who have been painting in my studio for a few years. During the spring last year, Sarah brought in an image of Pampadour from the Vancouver Zoo. I investigated a little more and found the original article from The Province which is headlined “The Fight Against Animal Extinction”. Though the argument to have or not to have zoos has been a hot topic for many years, the article explains that habitat loss and population decline have placed giraffes as ‘vulnerable’ on the International Union for the Conservation of the Nature’s (IUCN) official watch list.
This year, our event theme is “Eco-Sustainability” is at the forefront of our efforts to raise awareness for our environment and nature through the arts. As mentioned earlier, Sarah has been painting in our space for a few years now and I have always known her to paint meaningful works. Animals have been mostly what she has worked on with us. Together, we are going to host a painting party in the summer hopefully at the zoo as well as sell some merchandise featuring Pampadour. Proceeds will not only support conservation efforts via the zoo but also support a local artist with a vision and message about supporting wildlife and animals. Check out the latest Artists in Cars video to hear more from her as well as Lynn and Aidan who also paint with us and who are as equally as talented and supportive of each other’s works.
To help support Pampadour, order a card featuring Sarah’s painting via our boutique website here. You can also order capris and a beanie too! To be placed on our Pampadour Painting Party wait list, please register to be notified here.
To learn more about the Greater Vancouver Conservation efforts visit their website. To learn more about the Genesis G-80, get in touch with our Genesis Experience Manager Jennifer Friesen. Thank you to Project Her for supporting this project. Tickets to the 8th annual Art World Expo are available here. Be sure to attend and dress in Eco-Friendly attire or makeyour own upcycled outfit!
Art World Expo 