Are you an artist who needs some exposure for your art? Do you create something that is unique and out of the box?
We are looking for YOU! Be sure to take advantage of the early bird rates as an Art World Expo TM exhibitor and join one of the most interesting shows in Vancouver, and now Toronto!
Application forms for Vancouver artists and more information can be found: HERE
We are very excited that ART WORLD EXPO is growing nationally and we want you to be a part of the show!
Art World Expo is currently looking for artists who want to show, sell and promote their work at our next event at Hard Rock Cafe in the heart of downtown Toronto. All mediums are welcome, and the more out of the box your art is, the better! We are looking for artists that are unique, interesting and who want to share their work with the general public at this extraordinary event featuring hundreds of artists annually.
To submit your art, visit: https://theartworldexpo.com/exhibitor-information/
Calming Chaos
– An Interview with Painter Graham McKenzie
by Alyssa Laube
About: Graham McKenzie is an easy-going and honest person who draws his artistic inspiration from nature. Most of his work is based off of hikes in the Fraser Valley, so British Columbians can visit the scene of Graham’s paintings! He finds joy in escaping the man-made world and immersing himself in the magical, sporadic qualities of the natural world. With his paintings, he invites the viewer to experience it with him.
Your interest in art started with wax crayons. When did you pick one up for the first time? Is there a reason why you loved it so much?
When young, we all pick up wax crayons. I remember my first real art lesson was given to me by my mother. While visiting some friends and colouring with their child, I liked the way his colours looked compared to mine. I told my mother that I wanted crayons like his. She simply said, “Don`t push down so hard.”
Art left your life for a while. Do you know why that happened, and what inspired you to get back into it?
I don`t think I lost interest in art, it just faded away for a while. I started having dreams which rekindled it, and soon started to push a pencil around.
How did working with your drafting board help you develop as an artist?
An artist, no matter what their skill level is, needs a work place; a place where you can return to your work and not have to clear up because it’s dinner or bed time.
How has your art evolved over time?
I really believe that practice makes you better. The more you paint, draw, or scribble, the faster your fingers and brain learn to communicate. I feel that my paintings have evolved over the last couple of years because I’ve made an effort to make painting more than just a hobby. I have always been a detail-oriented person and have been working creating more depth in my work.
Your desire to paint nature and landscapes started after you began to hike in the Fraser Valley. What is it about this place that inspires you?
Even as a child, I spent a lot of time in the woods playing and making forts. Walking into the forest really excites me! I love the green of B.C.. The way the moss grows and hangs from the trees creates a magical wonderland.
What are some of your other favourite places to paint?
I don`t know if I have a favourite place to paint but I really like the Cultus Lake area and Lindeman Lake as well.
Why do you love to paint nature, rather than anything else?
I work in the aerospace industry, where everything is measured down to the one-hundred thousandth of an inch. Everything is very controlled. Now, with nature, everything is beautifully random and free. It`s that freedom that allows a person’s mind to wander, paint a branch or throw some leaves here and there to suit your mind’s eye.
What does creating art do for you?
Sometimes, when painting, you get into this zone where things are flowing. It`s almost like meditation. You’re thinking about what you’re painting, your day, the people in your life, listening to music, or sometimes all of them at once. It sounds busy and crowded but your mind just wanders. Then you look up at the clock and 3-4 hours have flown by.
How would you like to challenge yourself in the future?
I feel like I`m just getting started in my painting career, so I definitely want to put more effort in and be more disciplined. Large canvases are intimidating, so I think I have to tackle some of those as well. I’ve been fortunate in that I have met a lot of helpful and unselfish people over the last couple of years who’ve been very supportive. I want to continue to support others that I meet and pay it forward, as they say. B.C. has a great artistic community and I’m grateful that I’m starting to mix in.
Going for a Wander started in 2011, displaying and selling a variety of art, inspired by travel.
All of our products are printed, mounted, framed, packed and sent from the UK, to customers all over the world.
We work with different designers, but all of our collections are curated by our creative head, Spencer ap Taliesin.
Any questions at all, please just get in touch, we look forward to hearing from you.
For more information, please visit http://www.goingforawander.com/
It’s a wonderful thing to meet artists from around the world. Here is an artist that we would love for you to meet too!
By Alyssa Laube
About: In 2014, Katerina Taylor moved from Alberta to British Columbia to study Makeup Artistry and Professional Hair Styling at Blanche Macdonald. When she is not at school, Katerina is doing freelance work that includes weddings, proms, other specials events and one-on-one lessons. Although Katerina enjoys all specialties that makeup has to offer, she mainly specializes in beauty/glamour makeup.
To reach Katerina, you can email her at katerinataylormakeup@hotmail.com
What are you planning on showcasing at this year’s expo?
I have entered into the body painting competition this year and am really look forward to pushing my artistic capabilities for it’s theme: Fairy Tale. I’m still working on a foundation for the piece that I will be competing with this year.
How did you discover that you wanted to be a makeup artist?
I have always been interested in art and the ability to express oneself through different mediums! I was in my second year of university when I began my retail job at MAC Cosmetics. It was then that I really discovered what I wanted to do with myself. I was encouraged by my colleagues to apply to Blanche Macdonald for their Global Makeup Diploma program. They were previous graduates and told me that I would do well at Blanche. Sure enough, a little over a year later, I am exactly where I want to be! Going to school for Makeup Artistry only pushed me closer to becoming who I want to be. I am now a returning student to Blanche Macdonald for their Professional Hairstyling program and I’m set to graduate this program in March 2016!
How is your education at Blanche Macdonald improving you as an artist?
Going to Blanche, I had a really good support system from the career directors. They were continuously encouraging me to push myself as an artist by volunteering and recommending me to potential employers. This would include working on film sets and fashion shows, various retail opportunities, and a handful of freelance work for me to do on the side. They also featured my work on the main Blanche Macdonald websites! I would keep up with them regularly about what I was up to, and in return, they continued to support me. For that, I am truly grateful.
When you say that you specialize in “special events makeup”, what sort of special events do you mean?
A majority of the freelance work that I do is beauty/glamour makeup. I do a lot of weddings and proms, especially during the warmer seasons.
What was your job with MAC Cosmetics like, and how did it change you?
I was hired with MAC Cosmetics when I had very little makeup artistry experience, so it was very intimidating at first. It was hard for me to feel confident about what I was expected to do, but over time, it became easier for me to really enjoy all aspects of my work. I had a great MAC family; We all got along well and always had fun on counter. Also, because a good portion of our job was to be in trend with the newest makeup fads, we were always asked to be creative. It was a really good start for me – pushing myself artistically like that and thinking outside of my comfort bubble. Eventually, my colleagues saw my passion and encouraged me to pursue school, which led me to attend Blanche! So, in hindsight, I owe my success to MAC Cosmetics for welcoming me into their family and showing me a side of myself that wanted to be noticed.
What do you feel is most important to succeed in the makeup industry?
I believe that the key to succeeding in the makeup industry is networking. Whether you specialize in beauty, fashion, television/film, special effects, or even prosthetics, you need to know how to market yourself. This is absolutely the most important way to succeed, but it requires a lot of work on your part. You must commit to spending hours updating and keeping your information and portfolio up-to-date.
Why do you love being a makeup artist?
If we’re talking about my freelance-beauty work, what I enjoy most is the ability to make people feel beautiful. People of all types come to me for help and advice or just to feel fabulous, and I give them what they are looking for! Despite what a lot of people assume about makeup artists, I am 100% comfortable in my own skin and love when others are too! I am not here to say that makeup is absolutely the way to go or recommend that for you; I’m here to make you feel beautiful. Doing that is very difficult because I’m working against a person’s insecurities, but I wouldn’t trade it for any other profession. Their joy and happiness when I am finished with my work makes it completely worth it.
What are your goals for the future?
My plans include being an educator for what I do and continuing to strive for excellence. I don’t want to limit myself to one specialty, but rather to be as versatile as I can be. I want to be paid to travel the world and showcase my art and eventually, I would like to have my own makeup/hair studio.
THE ART WORLD EXPO IS GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY:
An Interview with Cristina Petersen
by Alyssa Laube
About: After returning to her home town of Vancouver after 14 years, Cristina Petersen now works as a painter and ESL instructor at the University of British Columbia. She is new to showing her work, and looks forward to developing and improving as an artist.
As a newcomer to the Art World Expo, what are you expecting?
I am expecting to talk and connect with a lot of like-minded people, and to have fun being involved in such a great and vibrant event! I hope to sell some work, but I think that just being there is a step towards even considering myself as a real artist.
You are new to showing your art. How did you decide to do that, and what was your experience like?
I was encouraged by Monika to do more art and to get it out there, but also met a local artist in my neighbourhood named Marty Andaluz. I worked with him to have my first art show, along with two of my friends, who are also new to art. We had fun organizing it together at a local café, Room for Cream on Kingsway. It also helped to have encouragement from my fiancé, Tom, as well as family and friends who support this new adventure of mine.
You’re juggling two jobs – as an artist, of course, but also as an instructor at UBC! What is that like for you?
It’s very difficult to find time sometimes to paint, as teaching is a very demanding job. I love teaching and it is my priority of course, but I try to paint on weekends or when I feel inspired.
You’ve mentioned that you love to write. What do you enjoy writing? Have you ever considered this as a career?
I like to write blogs sometimes for my work. They are about teaching. Writing is just a fun way to express myself about things I’m passionate about. I have toyed with the idea of going into editing as I have a keen eye for errors, having taught ESL for about 13 years now. But ultimately, I am very social and think that being a writer might be too isolated for me…perhaps something later in life! I am always open to trying new things.
Do you think being in Ecuador will be an artistic inspiration for you?
Yes of course, traveling is always an inspiration. New experiences are what keep things fresh.
How has working as an artist affected your work as an instructor, and vice versa?
I am not sure that it has affected my work as an instructor, but sometimes I feel like teaching language is a very creative job. When I am in the classroom, I can create a mood or focus on certain things, much like painting. Although with my job, there are administrative duties that sometimes zap my creative side and make me wish I were just able to paint!
What subject(s) do you teach?
I teach English as an additional language. I teach in different programs all the time, so sometimes I teach in the Intensive English Program, (IEP) or the English for Academic Purposes (EAP), the English for the Global Citizen (EGC) or Explore (with French Canadians). I teach all the skills, but if teaching IEP or EAP I usually try to pick the Speaking and Listening classes or writing courses. I like teaching Speaking because I like to facilitate discussions, teach presentation skills etc. Writing essays is a bit of an art form too. I have always loved to write as well.
You work in acrylics. What makes you choose it?
Mostly because they are forgiving and easy to clean, as I usually paint in my apartment, so I have to set up everything and take it all down at the end. Cleaning brushes etc. is way easier. I also like to add water or Gesso, sometimes crackle paste for variety as they mix well. I can add oil on top if I want more texture later.
What are the most important things in your life?
Things or people? *laughs* My fiancé, my family, my friends, my dog… but aside from that, being a given, I love horseback riding and skiing; those are the two hobbies that I am passionate about. I try to stay healthy by exercising and eating healthy, delicious food. I enjoy a good glass of red wine, living a simple life, and travelling when I can to explore the world – particularly foreign places where I don’t speak the language. I’ve been studying Spanish off an on for about 10 years.
Do you have any significant goals for the future?
Well, I am getting married next June, so my fiancé and I are planning our wedding. We are saving money right now and also hoping to take our honeymoon in Ecuador. Hopefully sell more art to help fundraise.
Can you think of a particular moment or person that inspired you to become an artist?
My half-sister Dana loves to paint and is really quite talented. I think she will surpass my skills! I bought her a painting lesson almost 3 years ago with Monika and went with her. This was my first painting lesson too, and ever since then, with Monika’s encouragement, I have kept painting. I have always loved art and art galleries too. I think it was always in me, but it was a matter of being in the right head space to pull it out. And to have that initial “ah ha!” moment, like “Wow, that was really fun, I want to do more of that!” Now I am older and have found my path as an instructor, so I feel like expanding my horizons and trying new things. Learn new skills. Be creative. Always grow as a person.
Do you find that, on a bad day, painting can make you feel better?
Yes, of course. It is very calming and therapeutic. You can lose yourself in the art and not worry about anything else. Although I have to tell myself sometimes not to be a perfectionist. I like to paint with bigger brush strokes and more abstract style on days where I need a release.
Is there a specific technique that you like to use or find interesting?
I love work by Dali, it’s so weird and crazy, as well as work by the Group of Seven. I really like abstract scenery and more free flowing brush strokes. Not really schooled in art, so not sure of any specific techniques, but I know I am still experimenting and learning a lot.
How do you hope to improve as an artist?
I hope to improve my ability to draw or paint specific features like eyes, noses and mouths. I also hope to let go of my own criticism of my own work. I have to accept that not all pieces turn out quite how I envision them, but sometimes that is the beauty of it.
The Pioneering Spirit
An Interview with West Coast Artist, Susan Galick
By Alyssa Laube
About: Susan Galick describes herself as a fun-loving lady with a passion for life, family and friends. She aims to live each and every day to it’s fullest and is happily devoted to the things she loves to do most – painting, music, art, and all things creative!
How long have you been involved in art?
I have been involved in some sort of art my entire life from sewing, knitting, needlecraft, tole painting, fashion design, stained glass, wood burning, chocolate making, cake decorating, handcrafts of all types, soap making – anything and everything creative. I could never watch television.
How has your life changed since you’ve become a professional artist?
At this point in my life I am now able to spend more time creating art. Being able to paint every day is the biggest change for me.
Many of your paintings seem to be set in B.C. What is it about our province that inspires you?
B.C. is gorgeous and I think that we take it for granted just how beautiful our province is from the coast to the Okanagan to the Kootenays and to northern B.C. I spent 9 years living in the caribou where my husband and I raised our 2 sons on a pristine lake. For me, I always need to be near the water, whether it be a lake or the ocean. Although I prefer the ocean as it is forever changing. I have been blessed to have lived by the water for pretty much my entire life from the ocean, to rivers to lakes. Water inspires me.
Which area of Vancouver has been your favourite to paint?
Gastown.
Have you ever painted scenes from a different province or country?
Yes, I have painted the U.S., Mexico and Europe. I hope to travel more in the future as my duties as a Mom and Grandmother are reduced as the kids get older. My life revolves around my family.
What is your favourite thing/place to paint?
“Working boats’, street scenes, character buildings and vehicles.
What is your biggest challenge as an artist?
My biggest challenge is trusting myself and my own style and retaining that loose, unique style. I do not wish to become a ‘tight painter’.
Do you think your personality is shown through your work? How so?
Yes, I believe it does. In fact I was just told this last night by a very established, famous local artist. I look at life with a positive outlook, no matter which trials we have to go through, and I have had my share…I strive to be happy and paint happy paintings.
Some of your paintings seem to be “blurred”. Could you explain what draws you to this technique?
I love loose, painterly strokes. My favourite artists are those than can portray what they are trying to say in as few strokes as possible along with light being a focus. Ken Auster is one of my favourite artists. I strive to create a focal point and add more tight detail in that area then blur out the background with loose strokes.
What is it about painting boats that you enjoy?
I just love the lines of boats, especially ‘working’ boats with character. I grew up on the water fishing with my father and have spent a great deal of my life near the ocean.
How do you know when you’ve found something you would like to paint?
When I get really excited and I cannot get it out of my head, I know i’d like to paint it. No words can describe the scene and I want to share it by painting whatever it may be that excites me at the time.
How do you stay inspired?
That is a difficult question. “Stuff” happens in everyday life which interferes with my ability to get inspired. When that happens I go to my “Beach Box” – my wonderful home on the ocean in Sooke. It sits on Juan de Fuca Strait. Here is the link and I think you will understand as the photos will explain more than my words.
http://www.beachboxstudio.com/
Are there any other artists who have played a significant role in your development as a painter? If so, who?
Yes, after I lost my husband of 39 years to cancer I forced myself to go to an art school “open house.” I had always wanted to paint and it was the local, talented Carmel Clare that I first met. She is the main reason that I am where I am. She is now my mentor, one of my best friends and my inspiration.
Do you sell every piece you finish?
I’m not sure how to answer that. In general, yes, I suppose I eventually do. Some take longer than others but some I give away to friends or family. For me it’s not about the money but for the enjoyment of painting. If someone gets excited when they see one of my paintings and just has to have it, that’s what is the most enjoyable for me. My favourite painting, personally, was my one of my Gastown paintings. It sold quickly so I felt like I did not get to enjoy it for long in my own gallery.
What was your first piece?
My first piece was an abstract water drop painting. I had it hanging in our bathroom while we put our home up for sale in White Rock. Sarah Daniels used to be the traffic/weather lady for BCTV and a realtor. She fell in love with my painting and phoned me up to ask if I would sell it. That was my first painting and my first sale.
What is it like to have your own studio?
It’s a dream come true for me. I can go downstairs and paint any time of the day or night that I want and I am my own boss which is very important to me.
How has owning your own studio changed how you personally, creatively, and professionally?
Owning my own studio forces me to take my art seriously. Previously, I used to think that I had to take care of my family, house, many gardens, etc. before I could settle down and paint. I felt that painting was secondary to the rest of my work. Owning my own studio makes me realize that this is my job now and I can paint anytime of day, get it done and the rest can be secondary.
How to you hope to grow as an artist?
Last night I joined a local art group with their goal being to form a West Coast Guild. I hope to learn from these accomplished artists and to be able to contribute my expertise as well, whether it be my ability to bring joy and happiness to others or to help mentor young people. I have 5 grand kids who mean the world to me and I try to be an inspiration to them as well.
What are you hoping to accomplish at this year’s art expo?
I am hoping to meet new people outside of my world, expose myself to new experiences, hopefully sell a few pieces, and network with others.
Do you have a motto, or any advice you’d like to give budding artists?
I have been through a lot in the past few years. My perfect, idyllic life that my husband and I worked so hard to obtain was literally turned upside down when my husband got cancer and consequently passed aways 14 months later. My family and I were devastated. My favourite quote is, “Yesterday is history, tomorrow a mystery, today a gift”. That is how I try to live my life. I have always tried to live each and every day to its fullest. I have a strong faith that has taken me through so much and blessed me with so much. My advice to my kids and others is that if you really want something, we are blessed to lived in a country where anything is possible if you have the passion, drive, and ambition to get what you want. It’s true!
To learn more about Susan and her work, you can visit http://www.susangalick.com/
She can be contacted at (778)-879-7273 or susan.k.galick@gmail.com
We are so excited about our show this year, after all, it IS our 5th Anniversary! In honor of this momentous occasion, we want you all to be sure to have your tickets ready long before the event in May and have a special promotion for you until September 8!
This month, our founder and CEO Monika Blichar, is participating in a pop up gallery “Acts of Random occupaTion” in Deep Cove along with 7 other talented local artists and designers, some of whom are also part of AWE 2015! As part of her mission to bring everyone out to the Expo for the Fairy Tale Inspired 5th anniversary event, with every purchase made on any of pieces by Monika Blichar from the gallery, clients will receive two free tickets to Art World Expo!
A fabulous deal for those who would like to collect Monika’s work as well as join us at our event on May 1, 2015!
As an added special bonus, if you show this coupon upon purchase, either printed or on your Smart Phone, you will also be eligible for 10% off any of Monika’s pieces on top of claiming your complimentary Art World Expo tickets! Tickets to the Expo are currently $40/each.
Monika is exhibiting 20 pieces for sale at the exhibition running until September 8, 2014. Ranging from hand painted and mixed media tiles, to paintings, signed limited edition prints and one hand sewn custom collarette. Pieces range in price from $60-$2500.
Each week, participating artists will also be doing live demonstrations free for the general public. Monika will be live painting August 21 & 22, September 5 and Face Painting by donation to support AWE 2015 Toronto Expansion on August 24 for Deep Cove Days.
For more information on the gallery hours and a full list of exhibitors, please visit the Acts of Random Occupation event page on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/events/666266263458563/
Art World Expo 