art show

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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Artists in Cars: Our Latest Interviews

I’ve been having a great time with these video interviews in this luxury Genesis G-80 over the last couple of weeks! Here are the latest interviews with Patrick Parenteau, photographer and Francoise Boise, body painter. Enjoy and be sure to get your tickets to our 8th annual Art World Expo today! Our event theme this year is “Eco Sustainability” and we are looking forward to seeing all your DIY, upcycled and recycled creations at the event! Tickets are available here.

Want to learn more about Genesis Richmond? Contact Genesis Experience Manager Jennifer Friesen via her LinkedIn account.

Interview with Humanitarian Artist Judy Anne D. Galdones

by Monika Blichar

Social media is awesome. It is a great tool these days to help make communication possible between people and business owners. I met Judy on Instagram and from the moment we connected online, I could sense that she is a serious artist working hard towards her goals as a professional. She was enthusiastic, professional and so eager to put her work out into various shows. When I finally met her at the Art World Expo Speaker Series in January, I was delighted to meet a bubbly, personable and committed individual. I was impressed with her desire to show and sell her work-not all artists are as motivated to be an artist and do the marketing and business side at the same time. It was only until after reading her interview answers below that I understand why she is motivated, driven and passionate about her work. Great work Judy! You are an inspiration!

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1-When did you start making art?

For as long as I can remember, I was always creating some form of art but mainly drawing. It wasn’t until high school that I started painting. I painted every now and then for about five years and never did I go to any formal schooling as this was my hobby and didn’t want any form of structure in it. Then, for almost a decade, art took the backseat as I went into college and entered a busy career in nursing. It wasn’t until four years ago, in 2014 that I got re-acquainted with it again and at the end of that year when I lost my grandma to cancer followed by a most difficult breakup, art became my world. It served as my outlet – where I found my voice, my cry. Little did I know that my deepest heartaches would unveil the most soulful part of me. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with painting and want to share this passion with all who cares to view the sight.

2-What inspires you as an artist?

Much of my inspiration comes from living life itself. Capturing life’s beauty from the most intimate thoughts and emotions to the exquisite sites of our Mother Nature is what I want to share with the world through my paintings. Through my sales, I wish not only to bring life to a room but also to help brighten the future of an adolescent in a third world country. 10% of all my proceeds goes towards a scholarship every year for a senior student in the Philippines’ Sarrat National High School who wants to further their education in order to better their lives.

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3-Will you have special promotions or exclusive offers for Art World Expo Edmonton event attendees at the Muttuart Conservatory on March 16?

Yes, I will be offering a 15% promotional discount on all my paintings – discount will be applied at checkout.

4-Where would you like to see your art business in 5 year’s time?

In five years, I hope to see my art business flourish – for my art to be in more shows and galleries. I would really love to see it prosper so that I can help more kids reach their dreams. I want to be a part of the reason that betters their world.

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5-Just for fun: If you could interview any artist living or deceased, who would it be? What would you ask them?

This is a pretty tough question as I seem to have a difficulty narrowing it to just one artist. But okay, if I had to choose I would want to interview the late Monet. I would ask what it was about lilies that gave him the obsession to paint them over and over again throughout his career. Although it was done repeatedly, each painting was still yet so remarkable and I wonder if there was a deeper reason as to why he choose this subject. Also, given that he struggled with finance and depression, I would ask, if he could relive his life again, is there anything he would change and why.

To learn more about Judy’s art and how to contribute to her fundraising towards a scholarship every year for a senior student in the Philippines’ Sarrat National High School for further education, please visit Judy’s Instagram Account. Our event in Edmonton is SOLD OUT but you can visit Judy at the Art World Expo Vancouver on May 11, 2018 at Telus World of Science. Tickets to this 8th annual installment are available.

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Interview with Edmonton Artist Mira Nova

Mira Nova headshot by Agata Raymond Photography

by Monika Blichar

I love meeting new artists, especially ones that can do things I can’t. It’s amazing the talent that has signed on for the first annual Art World Expo Edmonton. Mira Nova was one of the first artists to sign on for our event and looking through her work, I was eager to meet her. She has a fluidity to her work that is both soothing and powerful at the same time. Her ability to convey and capture softness and confidence is why I chose her Hawk to be on this year’s flyer. In her explanation of the piece, she says that hawks represent messengers and for Art World Expo, that is exactly what our goal is to offer artists and the general public. We are the messengers of creativity soaring through time and space to share art and imagination with guests, readers, followers, fans and what has become our wonderful art family.

1-When did you start making art?

I’ve drawn since I was little. It was always an activity that I did most. That and playing outside or with pets.

2-What inspires you to create?

I am inspired by the beauty of nature and the depths of emotion, constantly working on ways to bring them together. There is beauty in the dark aspects too, in a way that brings more life if that makes sense. So I like to bring it all together when I can.

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3-You work a lot with animals as a subject matter. What is it about animals that inspires you to create?

Animals have filled a large part of my life. From pets at home, to experiences at wildlife sanctuaries, they’ve always held a grounding, spiritual connection for me. Many moments of understanding, learning to trust, and bonding. Fascination with their ways of being keeps me captivated all the time.

4-This year, your image is featured on the Art World Expo Edmonton flyer. Can you tell us about this piece?

The Hawk was inspired by a good friend of mine Meighan, she commissioned me to draw it for her. When I began to draw it, the patterns and flow came out very naturally, it’s always great when that happens, sometimes things take a while to come together.

I heard a story a long time ago about the hawk being a messenger, so I drew a bubble just under the wing that I intended to put a message inside. As I drew it, I started to think it would be better for the person viewing the image to derive a message of their own, so I left it open for them.

5-Where do you see your work and business in 5 years?

In 5 years, I hope to have a few series out and finally experience being a vendor at the Whyte Avenue Artwalk. If everything goes well, tattoo will also be a part of my skill set in the future.

6-Just for fun: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

There are so many places I’d love to travel. Anywhere that is rich in nature, art and music, I would be happy to explore. The one that sticks out the most right now is Iceland.

The sense of wonder and creativity that is evoked when looking at Mira Nova’s pieces are an extension of the meaning of the artist’s name itself. Creating new wonders, this Edmonton-based illustrator and visual artist uses illustrations and paintings to show us a world that is bursting with vivid colors and enchanting lines.

Mira Nova has shown her pieces at various galleries, including the Art Gallery of Alberta and the Bleeding Heart Gallery. Additionally, her work has been featured at several local events and cafes, including festivals such as Reign Bough Fiddle and Spectrum. She was the principal designer for the Reign Bough Fiddle Music and Arts Festival (AB) poster in 2017.

To learn more about Mira Nova, visit her Facebook Page and be sure to visit her at the Art World Expo Edmonton on March 16, 2018 happening at the Muttart Conservatory. Limited tickets remain! Get yours today!

Interview with HumbleTara

by Monika Blichar

As we approach the Edmonton event, I find that the level of anticipation and stress increases for everyone involved in making this event happen! From all the little details to the final layouts and line ups, we are all getting ready for a great night! During the time where everything is busy and we are doing a million things at once, it is always great to remember to be “humble and kind” which brings me to my next artist interview with Tara Clelland, aka “Humble Tara”. I caught up with her and she’ll be telling us about what her brand stands for and some of her inspirations.

1-When did you start making art and when did you know that you wanted to pursue it as a career?

I have been creating whimsical pieces of art for years, privately. I let the world know in the summer 2014. I felt it was too personal to share with anyone. I paint with my heart. It takes a great deal of vulnerability to show the world your soul. I wasn’t ready till 2014.

Making art is a passion for me. If I could do this as a career, I would be on top of the world!!! If I can pay bills and do what I love?? Bonus!!

2-Your art name is “Humble Tara”. What does this name represent to you and your art?

The common theme in my life has been “be humble and kind”. Treat others the way you want to be treated. This world needs kindness and it starts with us. Everyone has a story. Being humble is putting others ahead of yourself.

The intention of my work is to evoke a “reaction”, a “feeling”. The stories I hear from people are truly amazing and inspiring. If I can give that person a “moment”, then I am fulfilled.

3-You mention that you paint a lot for mental health. How has making art helped you? What would you recommend others to start with if they were looking to use art as therapy?

Yes I use art as my therapy. Like a form of meditation. When I paint I only think about painting. I am present in the moment. Sometimes my anxiety is overwhelming, I shut out the world while I paint what is going on in my head.

My recommendation for others to start their art journey is to JUST DO IT. Get a pad of paper (thick paper is better) and a acrylic palette (like paint by number containers) and just let your mind flow to your fingers. Do not judge your thoughts or what you create..let it flow. Getting started can be very inexpensive.
4-What can guests expect to see at your exhibit? Will you have show specials or contests?

I am bringing a variety of pieces to show the diversity in mixed media. Classic cars, animals and a few abstracts.

Yes I most definitely will have show specials!! Stay tuned to find out!

5-Where would you like to see your art business in five years time? Any big goals or dreams you would like to share?

What I would like my art business to be like in 5 years, is to attend/contribute to more exhibitions across Canada. To have a recognizable brand. Also receiving commissions from patrons looking to capture their beloved vehicles in canvas form.

A dream of mine is to do a VERY large canvas for a patron. The options are limitless.

6-If you could be a superhero, which one would you be and why?

If I was to be a superhero I would most likely be Rogue. She is strong and has the amazing ability to absorb people’s memories via touch. For the people who are suffering, I would take away the pain for them. And of course she can fly!!!

To learn more about Tara’s work, visit her website.

Bio:

I am a self taught artist. I have been doing art my entire life, privately, for my mental health. My first public show was the Edmonton Whyte Avenue Artwalk of 2015. My favourite medium is acrylic. Miscellaneous types of paper and adhesives are a few of my “go to” tools to use in my work. Making 3 dimensional objects into 2 dimensional objects is such a rewarding challenge for me. I love animals, automobiles, landscapes and just about anything I can create into a whimsical collage of colour.

Boxing Week Specials!

Boxing Week is here!

Enjoy 10% off everything in our online store as well as extended offers on our 12 Days of Christmas Special offers! Use promo code “12DAYS” at check out! Visit our online store: http://mabartstudio.com/store.php

MAB Ventures Inc.-An Arts & Entertainment Agency, 1335 Pemberton Avenue, North Vancouver BC

Art World Expo Christmas Fair!

Tomorrow we invite you all to our Christmas Fair at 4015 Fraser Street in Vancouver, BC.

Over 50 participating Artisans, vendors, and designers who are selling a variety of goods and services! Art, fashion, jewellery, home decor, knitting, make up, skin care, health and wellness, desserts, and so much more! Finish all your shopping, support local and even enjoy lunch with us! Best part is that we invite all ages and it’s free to attend! We have 100 swag bags for the first 100 people too-great items inside include essential oil from SPOIL YOURSELF, Art by Elizabeth Hill, a copy of Fresh Magazine, one free art class at MAB Art Studio & Boutique Gallery and an It Works drink sample to keep you healthy!

Learn more on our Facebook event page Here.

Our event auction, Christmas earrings and coffee sales are supporting two causes. The first is to help fund our new creative arts and wellness centre opening in North Vancouver in the Spring. The second is to support a member of our Art World community with cancer. Please be sure to buy a coffee, bid on items in the auction and purchase a pair of these earrings by Monika Colmorgen for $7! if you can’t make it and you’d like a pair of these earrings, please email us at artists@theartworldexpo.com or call 6049996177.

Ryan McGee-Weird Art & Lowbrow Charm

by Monika Blichar

I have long admired artists who push boundaries and when selecting artists to participate in our events, I always strive to reach artists who are different, fresh and new in their work. When I came across Ryan McGee’s work, I noticed something ‘je ne sais’ quoi about it. It’s dark but delightful. It’s strange and sublime. He examines life through a distorted lens. I loved it the moment I saw it and knew that we had to feature him in our Toronto event on November 17. I caught up with Ryan to ask him about his art. Enjoy!

1-When did you start making art?

I can’t pin point exactly when I started making art, for me it was something that just had to happen, I always had a need to express myself visually. When I was younger this took the form of drawing on walls and filling up sketchbooks with crude doodles. It wasn’t until my time in College that I started to really to think critically about what my art was, and what I wanted to put out into the world.

2-What inspires you to create?

I have always had a very strong interest in the weird, and this fuels me in everything I create. I pull from everything that strikes a cord with me on a personal level, and things that capture the underground culture I love. I often find myself collecting outdated horror and sci-fi comics, saving images of early surfer, and hot rod culture, and tuning in to a new band that connect with me. All of these elements get archived in somewhat of a nexus of inspiration for me to draw from.

3-How do you think art can change society?

I believe that art is extensive, and reaches just about everyone through various outlets. In my case I always wanted to create art but I never truly felt comfortable in the fine art culture, so I sought out sub art groups to get into. I think that’s the truly amazing thing about art is that there really is something out there for everyone to connect with. There will always be a steady flow of talented people who want to create, and express themselves. As long as art continues to have various outlets for these people to grow creatively then there will always be potential to change society by pushing new ideas, and concepts through their works.

4-Do you try to convey messages through your illustrations?

There is a certain charm I believe in lowbrow art, and this is something a try and capture in my pieces. I like to play with the imagination of the viewer through my strange, and sometimes-goofy pieces, I think this connects with the onlooker reminding them that art can fun. If my work has any type of message I would say it’s for people to take a step back, and not take themselves so seriously.

5-Where do you see yourself in your art business in the next five years?

I would love to have really established myself at least within the Toronto art community in the coming years. My dream would be to sustain myself entirely on my art, and that is something that I am really working on accomplishing. I think it is important especially for artists to set goals set for themselves and their art, and to always be striving to grow creatively, and professionally.

6-What kinds of works will you have for sale at Art World Toronto? Will you be offering attendees any show specials?

I will have a variety of pieces available for sale at Art World Toronto from patches to stickers to prints. In terms of special offers I really value meeting, and networking with new people at these events. Chances are if you come and say hi you’ll end up with a discount on some pieces, or maybe some stickers for free.

To order tickets to the Toronto Art World Expo, please visit This Link

Georgia Belle-Organic Soaps for the Organics Lover

It’s no secret that we are fans of handmade products! At Art World Expo, we also love to promote, use and refer products and services that are helpful and safe for people and the environment too. When I came across Georgia Belle in a Facebook group I belong to, I couldn’t help but become excited that she was interested in joining our Vancouver event in May 2018. I LOVE organic everything. From food to gardening, to organic body scrubs, shampoos and even household cleaners, I have become increasingly aware of what I am using and how that not only affects my body, but also my environment. I caught up with Sarah from Georgia Belle to ask her about what motivates and inspires her about her organic soap business!

1-What inspired you to start making soaps?

In 2002, I started learning about the chemicals, animal byproducts and other horrible things that were going into beauty products that I was using every day. Even the testing of products on animals was horrifying to me, as I have been a long time animal rights activist and couldn’t understand why these companies wouldn’t test on people, as we are the ones using them! It all started with deodorant, and then I kept on experimenting with all kinds of products from there! When I started making soaps, I was just in Heaven! I was able to make these great little soaps with extra butters to moisturize my skin, sugars and salts to exfoliate and even charcoal and clay to purify. I had not seen anything else like this anywhere, and I knew I had stumbled on to something great!

2-Your attention to the environment is an obvious factor into your decision into starting this business. Can you tell us about some of the ingredients in products that people should watch out for?

Yes, one big thing that I tell people to look out for in the summer months is any type of essential oil being used in things like bug sprays and sunscreens. Even in lotions you must be aware. Essential oils when applied directly to the skin can cause severe chemical burns, whether you are in the sun or a tanning booth. Other people can also develop skin discoloration that can last up to 8 weeks. We do not use any type of essential oils in these products for that reason. Also be aware of products that are made with regular zinc oxide. Our sunscreen for example is made with non-nano zinc oxide, whereas store bought sunscreens contain regular zinc oxide. A nano particle will enter the bloodstream, but a non-nano will not. Chemical sunscreens will enter the bloodstream and that is why DNA altering ingredients like oxybenzone have gotten such bad press lately.

3-What is your favorite ingredient to use?

I have a few that I love! Shea butter is very moisturizing, and I use organic fair trade Shea butter in a lot of products! Our soaps, bath candies and lotion bars all contain Shea butter. I use Vitamin E in every skin product for it’s skin repair effects and preservation. I also love charcoal! It purges and purifies pores, helps to remove toxins and metals and leaves your skin feeling very refreshed. It is also used in our Charcoal toothpaste for amazing teeth whitening from the very first time used! It’s just great!

4-How do you come up with so many ideas for products?

Over the last 15 years, I have come up with many ideas for skincare etc as it was something that I was needing at the time. If I needed a good toning shampoo, I made a recipe tried and perfected it. If my hair wasn’t growing fast, I researched and made a recipe. There are also so many things that I was coming up with that I had never seen anywhere else, such as sugar soaps and underarm detox for examples. I have several books of tried and tested recipes, and I thought if this is something that I need and use, there must be more people out there who need this too! Since my daughter Isabella (who by the way is ‘Georgia Belle’ 🙂 ) I have discovered that I could make all natural products for her too! She even helps me name some of our products! Frozen bath bombs for example, this is a custom scent that I made as per her request!

5-Are you going to have a special product for Art World attendees?

Yes we are! I will be making special soaps for the occasion, bath bombs, all natural mineral makeup and other goodies too! We will also have a great big gift basket that can be won through a product purchase draw.

6-Where would you like to see your business in 2-3 years?

I would like to see us with store fronts in and around Vancouver, and in Canada and the International market as well! I would love to see us grow and expand, have some of our products showcased in other boutiques and maybe some good health stores too.Our goal is to get people off of the chemical store bought products and help people transition to all natural ones. It is another reason why we keep our prices down too, is we want everyone to be able to afford Organic skincare and products for the home. For us it isn’t about making a sale, it is about raising awareness and forcing change to a market that is in desperate need of change. When my daughter is all grown up, I would like for her to live in a world where she and others are not bombarded with chemicals coming at them from every direction. I want them to live in a world where they can use truly great products that are helpful to them, not harmful. It is why I named the company after her! Isabella Georgia Grace has now also become Georgia Belle. This keeps me very hopeful for the future!

http://www.facebook.com/georgia.belle.beauty @georgiabelleskincare

If you would like to attend the 8th Annual Art World Expo in Vancouver, please purchase your tickets here.

Studio Seventy Three

by Monika Blichar

It is always really exciting for me to have organizations join our events. I always really appreciate when I see a collective join as not only are they usually representing a multitude of artists, they are usually representing a community engagement process that serves those in our backyard. Today, I caught up with the team at Studio Seventy Three and asked them a few questions about their group and what they do in our community!

1-What is Studio Seventy Three?

Studio 73 is a not-for-profit social enterprise with a storefront located in Surrey, supported by Community Living Society. The artists and artisans contribute in all aspects of running this business. We volunteer and engage with the community as much as we can in order to help bridge the gap between all members of society. We make and sell beautiful, hand- crafted, usable and wearable art.

2-How long has the organization been running and what are the main programs offered?

Studio 73 has been at its storefront location for just over two years. We offer space to other struggling local artists to sell their art for a cost that they would most likely not get elsewhere. We also provide flexible fused glass classes to the general public as well as team building classes for businesses or corporations.

3-What is your favorite part of working at the Studio Seventy Three?

Well, of course we all enjoy getting our pay checks! However, we also enjoy the friendships we have made, the opportunity to express ourselves through our art and the relationships we have made in the community.

4-Have you been able to help a memorable artist in the community via your organization or is there a moment that stands out for you while working at Studio Seventy Three?

We have had many memorable moments! A very recent one – being nominated in the category of Arts and Innovation for the Surrey Mayors Art Award – which acknowledged those who have had a positive impact on their community. We were a top finalist for this award and feel truly honored to receive this recognition.

5-Are you currently looking for members or volunteers? How does someone get involved if they would like to be a member?

At present we are not looking for members or volunteers as we are a small shop. In the future though! If anyone is interested in getting involved you can reach us at 778-565-5095or by e-mail at studio73@communitylivingsociety.ca

6-What are some of the goals of Studio Seventy Three in the next 2-3 years?

We see ourselves with a larger storefront and more artists and artisans.

For more information about Studio Seventy Three, please be sure to stop in at their exhibition space at our event and visit them on Facebook.