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Interview with Edmonton Artist Marty Johnson
By Monika Blichar
It’s exciting to expand Art World Expo. Our latest project in Edmonton is only adding fuel to the fire for making this event stand out from the crowd. Today, I caught up with Edmonton based artist Marty Johnson for MJ Designs to ask about his work and what we can expect from him at our March 16 event in Edmonton!
1-When did you start making art?
Art has always been a part of my life as a creative outlet and a way of procrastinating from things I should have been doing as a child. I chose a profession in massage therapy as I ventured into the ‘real world’ out of school. It wasn’t until a decade later that I felt I had learned what I needed in terms of self motivation to be able to create on a schedule. It was about that time when I started focusing on my art more. I had met some like minded people that wanted to create as well. This and with my training in massage therapy I started to put my creative abilities and comfortableness with bodies together. This was a challenge in the beginning. These open minded friends helped me venture into body painting. I now have such a wide variety of artistic mediums that I like to work with. Challenging myself to step out of my box has become a way of life with my art. And I love each new challenge as I succeed and fail because that is what growth is.
2-Your project for Canada’s 150th Birthday was amazing! What inspired you to use body paint in this project?
This project was a team effort between myself, a wonderful Photographer Christine Young and a creative Hair stylist Hollie George. Hollie first proposed the idea of a group body paint project. Us 3 met for a creative meeting about ideas and quickly developed into this amazing Canadian Body Paint artwork. As a team we narrowed down what aspects to show for each province. We know there are many beautiful and wonderful things each province has to show but we chose specific aspects that impacted us.
This was a 2 year long project and I specifically wanted to challenge myself more than I had in the past. I wanted artistic poses instead of painting just backs of people. I also decided to include a sunset, daylight and night scenes highlighting different aspects of Canada, like the beautiful aurora borealis in the northern provinces and territories. As you look at this piece keep in mind that we did not paint each province in sequence. For example BC was painted almost a year apart from AB.
We couldn’t have been happier to complete it on our Nation’s 150th birthday year.
3-What is your favourite medium to work with?
At present I have enjoyed acrylic paint the most but I have not ventured into oils or water colours. Sculpting I have enjoyed sand, snow, ice and foam.
I am a person that loves to try new mediums based on the creative job presented to me. If you ask me the same question next year it may be completely different and that’s what I love about art, we are our only limitation.
4-What kinds of work will you have at the Edmonton Art World Expo? Will you have any show specials?
I will be bringing three different series with me. The Canada Body Paint images of course. A must see! The other two, you’ll have to come check out for yourself. I’ll have originals, prints as well as some products with my art on them so there will be something for anyone.
5-Where would you like to see your business in 5 years?
Hmmmm…business and art, what an odd mix. At present I am guest curating a project with the art gallery in my home town. I continue to have doors open up to me that I never even knew existed. It will be a wonderful time these next five years. I love competing. I love creating custom artworks for people. And I love working on my own projects. I believe I am at a cusp of discovery within myself and the direction I am headed. My direction has been more custom work for individuals but I will be creating works of art based more on what moves me. I believe the next five years will have two paths; moving emotional artwork and products as well as competing in more renowned competitions.
6-What advice would you give to emerging artists?
Simply I suggest to try and fail, but try again. Creativity is always a learning process so don’t be afraid to fail. Some of my best lessons I have learned from not succeeding. Do not ever think you can’t learn more and from many professionals in different fields. Be open to any lesson that is being presented because they are everywhere.
Learn more about Marty on his website and make sure to get your tickets to the event! http://www.mjdesignsart.com/
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.
Artist Feature Galina Lukshina
By Iryna Petrenko
Artists are people who live in their own world of fantasy, dreams, emotions and feelings. Each one of them chooses a way to express their ideas of the universe and show their inner world.
Graphic artists choose sharp lines, creative thinking and unstable space. They are able to reveal the infinity and variety of such laconic graphic work. Traditional painting requires the artist to obey the established canons, but it is the graphics that open up the whole breadth of possibilities, freeing the imagination of the artist, limited only by the white sheet of paper.
Galina Lukshina is a visionary artist. She is an amazing woman who creates truly beautiful, mystical and unique pieces, expressing her own perception of the world, revealing feelings and emotions, flaunting human weaknesses and joy. Because of her talent, skill, desire to create and irrepressible imagination, these incredibly beautiful, bright and at times bizarre drawings make it impossible to remain indifferent.
The secrets of the artist are very simple: the creation of an image, regardless of the subject, must pass through the prism of their own sensations and emotions. By investing part of her own soul in each painting, Galina fills it with positive energy and feelings that she wishes to convey to the viewer. What makes her work entirely different from other artists, is the sincerity with which she animated her subjects. The author chooses unusual angles and creates dynamic images. Sharp hatching makes the picture come to life, the characters soar, taking the viewer into their realm.
The main theme of Galina Lukshina’s works is the inner dialogue of Man with God. These conversations encompass the whole universe in her paintings, where you are greeted with silent sadness, hopes for the future, parental joy, and childish naivety. All this is closely intertwined with surrealism, mysticism, and sometimes esotericism. Somehow, surprisingly, this emotional whirlwind is brought into balance and harmony by the artist.
There is a deep connection with folklore in Galina’s art. Belief in one’s own creation is present in many ancient rituals. Ukrainian folk embroidery is one of them. Our ancestors believed that you can embroider your destiny. In the modern world, we call it visualization. Galina found her way to create the future. She embroiders it in her paintings, and it projects into her life. When she was a child, Galina painted her daughter, and this drawing became a reality. Her daughter Alisa is not only the artist’s favorite creation, but also an endless source of inspiration for her work.
“I drew her when I was a child and was working on finishing this drawing for a long time. And now we often draw together, and together we see much better vision ahead. Alisa now lives in another country, married, but space does not separate us at all. On the contrary, the world in our minds is compressed to convenient values and this does not affect the quality of our communication. Here is Alisa, this is my most Important, the Best and most Significant Creation. I understand the world more clearly and distinctly through her now. I had a quantum leap because of her birth. Transition to a new level of consciousness. “(From an interview with the artist)
Alisa Lukshina is also an artist, and an actress. Actively filming, she also helps with sales of her mother’s paintings and organizing exhibitions.
Galina Lukshina has repeatedly participated in international art competitions in Spain, France, Germany, China, Australia, the USA and Mexico, and in 2004 her personal exhibition in Russia was held. Her works are in private collections in Ukraine, Europe and the USA. Among other things, the artist and her team are now working on preparing for another personal exhibition in Moscow.
There is a wonderful person and a musician, who needs to be mentioned. Alexandr Balunov, the founder of a famous music group Korol & Shoot (The king and the jester). He loves Lukshina’s art and has commissioned a few paintings. He decorated his new house with the art. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFtfxzYOJWU.
Today, Galina’s works can be seen and even purchased on the pages of the Internet store https://www.etsy.com/shop/LukshinaArt where the detailed photo gallery of the finished works is presented, and there is an opportunity to make an order for original artwork, as a custom order printed T-Shirt.
Unique presentation, bright and memorable images, kindness and true human warmth are all present in the artwork of Galina, who invites everybody to travel through her magical worlds.
Final Call for our Art World Expo Christmas Fair Vendors!
Are you an artisan or independent rep looking for a holiday event to participate in this year? Look no further and join our exciting Christmas Fair this year!
We have a limited number of tables left for vendors at our Christmas Fair on December 16! Submit your registration today here: https://theartworldexpo.com/exhibitor-information/ Questions? Call Monika Blichar 6049996177
We love to small businesses and Artisans and our Christmas Fair will be no exception to sharing the love for all things unique and local this December!
Thank you to Two of Hearts boutique in Kits for donating $5-$25 gift cards to spend in store! Lots of raffle prizes every 30 minutes!
Preview products, join the convo and connect with participants on our Official Facebook Event Page!
When you attend this COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY EVENT, you’ll find:
-Over 50 vendor tables including art, jewellery, fashion, hand knit goods, make up, skin care, chocolate, baked goods, kids accessories, essential oils, dog accessories, home decor, and health and wellness products and services and much more! Everything you need in one venue to complete your holiday shopping and networking! Ask our vendors about collaborations, participating in your events or if you’re a gallery or boutique owner, come browse to see if you could work with one of our Artisans in 2018!
-Fashion Shows by John Pfaff, Carolyn Bruce Steampunk Jewellery, and West Coast Hatters on models provided by award winning female body builder fitness models from Team Fitness! Yes! Exciting!
-Cheeses Crust Food Truck-Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Drinks! Really good sandwiches!
-Raffles every 30 minutes-Prizes from local vendors and of course, many of our sponsors from Art World Expo! Tickets sold on site!
-First 100 people through the doors receive a complimentary goody bag! No purchase necessary! Just be one of the first 100 people at 11:00am sharp!
-Face Painting for kids and adults by award winning body painter and visual artist Francoise Boise ($10/person) She’s amazing! Don’t worry, she will do Holiday themed paints too!
-Silent Auction Benefiting Make and Break Arts Foundation-all proceeds support independent Artisans and Arts Programs and Exhibitions in BC. It’s a win win! (Huge line up of awesome stuff to bid on-great for holiday gift ideas and of course-gifts for ourselves!)
-Arts & Crafts Station for Kids-leave them at the craft station and go shop and mingle! We have you covered!
-Finally, when you’re all done, take a photo at our photo booth with visitors from the North Pole! Capture a memory and celebrate Christmas 2017 with us!
Current vendors:
Monika Blichar
Art by Edy
Carolyn Bruce Designs – Steampunk Jewelry**FASHION SHOW**
West Coast Hatters**FASHION SHOW**
John Pfaff Art & Fashion**FASHION SHOW**
Fashion Show models sponsored by Team Fitness-Award Winning Female Body Builders from BC!
LumberJax Custom Wooden Jewelry
Karolyn’s Tupperware
Inner Harmonious Peace
Kathline Essential Oils Accessories
Jennifer Haase, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant
SPOIL YOURSELF, Cristina De Vellis
Jessica’s Homemade Alfajores-Baked Goods
Fifth Avenue Collection by Pardeep
Younique, Amanda Cherewick
The Sweet Doodle
Whisk Premium Matcha
Copper Paw Designs
Coastal Storm Gallery
Dagmar Doubkova Herbal Life
Bodacious Butterflies
Scentsy Kristi Weaver
SweetLegs Vancouver with Julia
Love Eco Jewels
Spain Gourmet Canada
Radiant Life Hoops & Styles
Petite Hippo
Earth Meets Spirit
Boise Art Works-Face Painting for Kids On Site $10/each
Deanna ArtFORMS
Diamond Movement
Andrea Renée Blackett MONAT
Diva’s Niche
All Day Shine by Julie SeneGence Independent Distributor # 384814
Crafts By Julia
Bryce Musil Azrael’s Forge Gems and Fine Jewelry
Taylore Mcmanne Jewellery
3 Days Left for Early Bird Tickets!
You heard right! There are only three days left for early bird tickets! Early bird tickets end February 29, 2016-secure your tickets now!
Fashion Show by Nancy Perreault
We always love this event and each year strive to make it more interesting and amazing for the artists involved as well as the guests who attend. This year we will have an array of art for sale from over 100 artists from Canada, USA and Europe; we are very exited that once again, we have artists exhibiting from out of country. We will also continue with live painting, stage demonstrations, live music, a fashion show, silent and live auctions, food vendors, drinks and of course, the always popular body painting competition.
Little Monsters Studio returns! Photo: Gaby Saliba
Our theme this year is “Glamour Noir” as our event date falls on Friday, May 13. Guests are encouraged to adhere to the dress code and wear only red, white and black to the show.
Please continue to support this fabulous event and all the imagination and possibility that lies within it. It’s more than just a show, it’s the Art World-a place you can truly experience everything and anything creative.
Stump Artist is back-maybe even live chainsaw carving!
Michael Griffin Fine Art is back-be sure to chrck him out!
Lisa Austin, The MT Canvas, and Deanna Fligg setting up a few years ago!
A feature from the 24HR -thanks Sarah Rowland!
Producer and owner of Art World Expo, Monika Blichar is creating #GlamourNoir50 , a collection of 50 new paintings to be unveilled at this year’s event.
Gary Weston’s art is a crowd favorite!
Guests enjoying an array of stage performances all night!
Gypsy Jean and her walking art-ask us about hownto get a walking ad for your business at the show his year!
Open Door Gallery in 2015 -amazing!
Purchase your tickets before the 29th of February and enjoy early bird discounts. Order your tickets HERE.
Consider purchasing a VIP ticket including a limited edition Coastal Imagination Glamour Noir mask by Coastal Storm Gallery. Created specifically for this event in support of Make and Break Arts Foundation who annually support kids and adult arts programs, artist exhibitions, and creative professional development both locally and internationally. A VIP ticket also comes with a fast track line up, a special swag bag, and a drink ticket.
Thank you Twin Peaks Construction for your ongoing sponsorship for our annual event. Be sure to visit their website for all your home and commercial renovation and new build needs!
Art Reveals Truth
This week, we’ve connected with a great website that features artists from all over the world. From artist features via live interviews and artist spotlights, to interactive social media platforms, these guys have something really great going on!
About:
Owner, Edward O’connor, has been working hard promoting artists at Art Reveals Truth. The goal of www.ArtRevealsTruth.com is to teach and educate especially the younger generation about the wonders beauty of art and expose them to a world that my not be taught to them enough in schools. Our online community connects different artist around the world via Discussion forms, Live Chat Rooms and a platform for artist to post there art work to the world to see. Consider it a Facebook for Artist.
The “Mom-Entrepreneurs” – An Interview with Sabrina Widner, Coastal Storm Gallery
The “Mom-Entrepreneurs”
An Interview with Sabrina Widner, Co-owner of Coastal Storm Gallery
By Alyssa Laube
About: Self-proclaimed “mom-entrepreneurs” Sabrina Widner lives in Sooke with her children and husband, where she spends most of her time taking care of loved ones and running Coastal Storm Gallery with her twin sister, Sam! Sabrina and Sam focus on exhibiting local artisans and feature a wide selection of beautiful aboriginal artwork. This year, they designed “Coastal Imagination Masks” which were sold at several of Make and Break Arts Foundation’s fundraisers all over the Lower Mainland and supported arts based projects like Art World Expo and summer art camps for children and youth.
How and when did you decide that you wanted to be an entrepreneur?
After spending almost eight years working in downtown Victoria, picking kids up from daycare, and feeling tired and under-appreciated at work, it was time for a change! I invested in a few properties (that currently pay my bills) so that I could spend my days walking my dog, volunteering in my local community, and actively participating in raising my own children. However, after a while of being a stay-at-home mom, it becomes a little tedious. So, my journey as a business owner began.
Can you tell the story of how you came up with the idea for Coastal Storm Gallery?
I have a beautiful aboriginal art collection, and friends and family started to ask me why I wasn’t buying and selling pieces online yet, so I did in 2009! However, not everything went perfectly the first time. My original business partner did not share the same vision as me. We came up with an online aboriginal gallery, and did a few trade shows and mall kiosks, but things fizzled out. Now, my sister and I are running Coastal Storm Gallery together, and things have been awesome ever since!
Sam, what lead you to becoming Sabrina’s business partner with the gallery?
Since graduating from college in 2001, I have been in various customer service roles which I absolutely love. I’ve managed retail stores, implemented customer service within a private company, and since 2008, I have been working for the local Health Authority. Initially, I was with Mental Health & Substance Use, which is an eye-opening program that allowed me to serve a population that deserves great customer service and complete respect. Currently, I am working within Public Health and now serve an even broader range of people.
Considering how young I am, you will be surprised to know that my husband and I have been married for five years now and have been together officially for eighteen years! We were pregnant within days after our wedding; having my Son in 2009 was the greatest experience of my life and every day I love him more and more.
With a busy career, a husband, and a son, finding time to spend with my sister was becoming a challenge. When she asked if I’d like to become involved with her business, initially I was hesitant and wondered where I would find the time, but I have to say it has been a great experience! We chat all the time, our children get to spend tons of time together “while their mommies work”, and I love it!
Why are you drawn to aboriginal artwork?
I think it’s because of the heritage! Even young aboriginal artists begin with a wealth of information and usually have family members that have mentored them since youth. Aboriginals of the first people of Canada. Their history dates back hundreds of years, many tribes have continued to pass information on through the generations, and I find amazing value in that. For every piece, there’s a story. Each animal has a different meaning, they have their own mythical creatures, the artist themselves have stories to share, and every family has a history. For example, I carry Nancy Dawson’s jewellery. She was taught how to carve and weave by her elders and she has passed that skill down by mentoring all of her sister’s children. They all currently hand carve silver jewelry. Her family crest is the wolf, and when her family holds a potluck, they give handmade items all engraved with wolf symbols to signify the family’s wealth.
You helped to create and sell “Coastal Imagination Masks” with Make & Break Arts Foundation this year. Can you tell us more about the masks and how you got involved with MAB?
One day, while sitting by the poolside at Monika’s house, we started taking about galleries and how much we both love art. I mentioned that I was lucky if the kids would let me have five minutes in a gallery without bribing them with a treat, and how I wished that there was something on-site that would work for the whole family. It would have to be desirable to a child, high-quality, and of course, fitting to be sold in a gallery setting. That’s what inspired me to create a line of children’s masks! I’m not great behind a sewing machine, but my best-friend and twin, Sam, sure is!
Together, Sam and I designed a West Coast animal-themed line of felt masks. We both have boys and know for a fact that dress-up items are extremely limited for them; it’s either a profession or a super hero, and none of it is made locally. We set out to fix that! All of our masks are machine-stitched, machine-washable, and extremely durable. We tested our product at a local craft fair and school fundraiser and got some amazing feedback!
I know that Monika works hard for her charity and I thought that we could both benefit by working together, so I sent her some product information and she ran with it! We did a custom order for her Halloween fundraiser of skulls and pumpkins, and created Ruldoph masks which she used to fundraise over the Christmas holidays. She has also included our masks in some online promotions as a part of her fairytale theme. Our hope is to continue to compliment her fundraising with seasonal masks.
There’s a list of “symbols” on your website. Why have you listed these, and what culture are they from? Where can they been seen in the gallery?
I decided to update my website and gear it towards local artisans. The website is still in transition, which is one of the reasons why the symbol page is still there. When the website was only aboriginal, the symbols page was there as reference.
What inspired you to start supporting local artisans?
Sabrina: During the last few years, I have become very active in my community and met so many amazing, talented people. I believe that businesses work because all members benefit; you’re only as successful as those around you! So, my sister and I have approached artisans we know in hopes of promoting their work.
Sam: Sabrina’s new focus on supporting local artists is a great move for her. I currently work with a lovely woman who creates beautiful one-of-a-kind jewelry with her sister under Gin-Nel Jewels. Gina is a mother of eight and needed a creative outlet. Making jewellery was it for her, and working with her sister is the bonus! There’s just something about sisters working together.
I went to a craft show to introduce Sabrina to Gina & they hit if off! A few days after that, I asked Gina if she could make earrings out of pennies (which I have always wanted and can finally do now that the penny is no longer used). She agreed and we started to talk about other opportunities. Gina’s products will start to be available on our website soon and we will be showcasing her creations at Art World Expo in Vancouver and Toronto!
What is it like to run a business with your twin?
The best part of it all is being able to work with my sister and best friend. When I have an idea in the middle of the night, a problem during the day, or too busy of a schedule to get everything done alone, I just call her! We can count on each other to support whatever the other person needs. For us, equal work means equal partnership. I love her, she loves me, and now we can spend time together doing what we both love!
Sabrina, you’re a self-proclaimed “mom-entrepeneur”. Why have you given yourself this title?
Part of why I describe myself as a “mom-entrepreneur” is that I’m doing something I truly enjoy while being able to sustain all of my family obligations first!
Visit http://www.coastalstormgallery.com/
Hopefully, you stopped by the Coastal Storm Gallery booth at Art World Expo this year! Sabrina and Sam will also be at Art World Expo Toronto in October!
A Business With Integrity
A Business With Integrity
An Interview with Jennifer Daerendinger
By Alyssa Laube
About: Jennifer Daerendinger, owner of ROAM Gallery in City Square, Vancouver, creates a unique and welcoming atmosphere for emerging artists. She will be running a booth at this year’s expo, where artworks from ROAM will be on display.
What inspired you to open your own art gallery?
I have always had a huge love for art and a number of artist friends who inspire me. The opportunity to do a show presented itself in December 2013, and because it was a big success, there was a lot of interest to keep doing them for emerging artists.
How did you come up with the name ROAM?
My very good friend and colleague, Colleen Kirk (who owns the PR Firm, The Kirk Group), came up with the name. ROAM was initially suppose to be a “pop up” gallery. We just never left City Square.
What meaning do you find in supporting local artists?
I think that there are a lot of very talented artists in Vancouver and it is often very hard for them to find venues to show in. It’s my pleasure to provide not only the opportunity, but the space for them to show their work. My goal is to help artists market themselves by providing them with the exposure of social media and a show in a non-conventional gallery, giving them the chance to make an event with their art. There is something very special about directly supporting the arts in Vancouver. It is incredibly gratifying for me.
How would you describe the atmosphere in the gallery?
I like to think that the gallery is warm, inviting, fun and has a sense of community. It’s open for the artists that show every month to come in and paint, hang out, invite friends, or whatever else they like. Each show is different, seeing as how the artists really have an impact on what the space becomes and how it is used. Also, I am so lucky to be located in City Square in a beautiful historic building with the modern amenities attached. It has great lighting and an openness that is so complimentary to the art. Overall, the environment is a mix of styles, much like our art in ROAM.
What, to you, is the most important thing about running your own business?
I have had the privilege of working with and learning from some of the best companies in the world, including Chanel and Holt Renfrew. This gallery allows me the opportunity to apply all of that knowledge to my work. I’ve always loved art and dreamt of owning my own business, so the gallery is a perfect fit. It marries art, marketing and commerce.
How has owning the gallery changed you and your life and the lives of others?
I was working in consulting up until the last part of 2014 when, in December, I decided to take all of my energy and focus it on starting my own business. Somewhere along the way, I realized that I had built a successful gallery that was doing really well! I’m always pleased when the artists see their pieces on social media after it is hung and are thrilled with the results. What truly humbles me is that I have had artists show 3 times at ROAM already, which tells me that I am running a business with integrity. Sometime around the third show, people would walk up to me and say, “Are you the gallery owner?” and I would laugh to myself in disbelief and say “Yes, I guess I am!”.
What is it about the Art World Expo that makes you want to join?
Monika. She’s the Bomb.
More about ROAM Gallery can be seen at:
