science world

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!

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1-What is Caitey Gilchrist Creative?

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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.

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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.

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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! caitey2

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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.

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.

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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: Artists in Cars-Brad from The Giggle Dam Theatre

by Monika Blichar

I always love meeting new artists from all kinds of backgrounds. In February, my family and I went to The Giggle Dam Theatre in Port Coquitlam for my father-in law’s birthday celebration. We all had a great time and as soon as I got home, I sent an email to Brad Lovell who works as a performer and the marketing manager there. I thought that somehow, the theatre could get involved with our organization in some way and bring even more light to artists pursuing their passions.

I caught up with Brad on Friday and had the pleasure of interviewing him in the Genesis G-80 from Genesis Richmond‘s Genesis Jenn. Here’s what he had to say about the theatre and following your passion!

Enter to win two tickets to an upcoming show with dinner by tagging two friends on our Facebook post below. Winner will be announced on April 6, 2018! Good luck!

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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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CALL TO ARTISTS: TORONTO AND VANCOUVER

We are excited to be producing another event in Toronto, our 2nd bi-annual, and our 8th annual event in Vancouver! If you are an artist of any kind, you won’t want to miss your opportunity to become part of our tribe!

We are looking for:

-artisan vendors

-body paint competitors

-food and dessert vendors

-beer and wine partners

-performers: musicians and dancers

-speakers and live demonstrations

-sponsors and advertisers: media wall, official stage sponsors, walking advertisers, swag bag sponsors and silent auction donors

To apply to be a part of our events in 2017 and 2018, please see our online application form. To be a sponsor or advertise with us, please visit this page!

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!

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Early Bird Tickets Close in 10 Days!

We are excited about our 6th annual event on Friday, May 13, 2016 at our beloved Science World. Join us for “Glamour Noir”, an evening of art, fashion and music. Dress code is RED, WHITE and BLACK.

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$25/TICKET UNTIL FEBRUARY 29, 2016

$50/TICKET MARCH 1, 2016

Special 6th Year Event Features:

100+ Artists!
Vendors: Painters, Photographers, Jewellery Designers and much more will be onsite showing and selling a collection of their best works. All original, all unique.

Lala’s Art-Click on the Image to see more!

Catalog Launch: Fashion Show
Fashion show by Nancy Perreault, one of BC’s most interesting designers. Nancy has worked with hundreds of brands and is an expert designer whose experience ranges with work for brands such as the BC Lions, Bacardi, Coors, Kokanee as well as costumes for exclusive events such as the Vancouver Olympics. Please visit her website for more information: Nancy Perreault

Food Vendors!
We are pleased to offer unique LOCAL BC foods by culinary experts. Savoury and sweet, treat yourself to experiencing some of the local foods that will be available at the event this year.
Elena Krasnova Patisserie and Hot Arusha will be just some of the fabulous foodies attending!

Click on the images to learn more about Elena and Hot Arusha!
World Famous Body Painting Competition!
Always a crowd favorite and not to be missed!

Learn more about Little Monsters Studio by clicking on the photo!

Live Music & Performances
Kara Lockwood
The Strangest Days

Silent & Live Auction
Unique Pieces: Over 50 pieces of original art work from artists who are participating in our event!
Hotel Packages, Things to Do Around Town, Beauty Packages, Travel Excursions, Services from local businesses and much more! Live Auction will take place on main stage at 10:00PM from artists who will be live painting at the event. Watch as artists create their masterpieces and then bid on them after they are finished!

All proceeds from the live and silent auction benefit Make and Break Arts Foundation to support facility rentals for exhibitions, arts programs for children and adults, mentorship for youth employment programs and opportunities for local and international artist development.

Art World Expo | 604 999 6166 | artists@theartworldexpo.com |
http://www.theartworldexpo.com

The Art World Expo’s “Intuitive Coach”, Christine Johel

By Alyssa Laube

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Christine Johel “received [her] first card deck from [her] life coach and mentor” and “was re-connected to a gift and talent: the ability to read tarot and oracle cards.” As a result of honing in on that talent, Christine started practicing as an “intuitive coach”. To elaborate on what that title entails, Johel offers the following services: Reiki, Akashic records reading, tarot and/or oracle card reading, hypnotherapy, and mediumship.

She “began [her] training in Reiki to reconnect with universal energy” and now uses it “to prepare the space for [her] clients’ session, so that they can feel like it is a safe place to express what he or she is going through.” Tarot and oracle card readings are likely a more familiar practice; Johel “reads or translates the symbols or pictures in the cards” in order to “assist [her clients] in their life’s path”. As is hypnotherapy (“used for pain management, phobias, past life regressions”) and mediumship (“used to connect clients’ [to their] love ones who have passed away into the spiritual world”). Akashic Records Reading, on the other hand, is more complicated.

“Before our soul comes to Earth, we create a contract with our source, God, or universe to learn,” says Johel. “Many people lately are questioning their life purpose and what it means to have freedom of choice. The Akashic Records have all of that information. It allows one to heal and release blockages. I use Akashic Records with my clients when they are indeed needing guidance, a change of direction, or understanding in their life.”

Christine will be offering her card readings at this year’s Vancouver Art World Expo “for three reasons”.

“First, I can offer them to a new audience,” she says. “Second, I will be able to meet, connect, and build new relationships with people who are passionate and talented in art. And last, card reading is a form of art; it is reading art on cards and relating that information to the client.”

Attendees of the Expo who visit Christine’s booth can expect the following from her card readings:

“Step 1: I invite my client to choose a card deck that has caught their eye, by colour or name. During the conversation, I will ask my client whether they want three or five card readings.

Step 2: I’ll take the cards out of the box and hold them in my hand for approximately ten seconds. Then I pass the cards to the client to hold for ten seconds, or longer if needed.

Step 3: Once the client has held the cards, they will then return them to me and I’ll begin shuffling them. I’ll invite to the client to tell me when to stop shuffling the cards.

Step 4: Once I have stopped shuffling the cards, I’ll ask the client to pick the cards, either by spreading them out or breaking the deck. If the client breaks the deck, I’ll invite them to pick cards from the top/middle/bottom.

Step 5: I will lay each card the client chooses upside down. Once all the cards are chosen, I turn them up and have them facing the client.

Step 6: I begin to read the cards by pointing to the symbols and how they relate to my client. From there, I will begin to share deeper information.”

Visit Christine and get a reading of your own by purchasing tickets for this year’s Vancouver Art World Expo!

The Great Idea: An Interview with Painter Leanna Litvinenko

An Art World Expo Spotlight

by Alyssa Laube

Before her attendance at Emily Carr, Leanna Litvinenko’s artwork was all about realism. During her high school years, she spent her time copying photographs “and getting them to look as realistic as possible.” This natural inclination sprouted from the presence of Classical Realism throughout her childhood and resulted in a colourful collection of oil paintings featuring bold, detailed faces. In fact, this practice was what initially brought Litvinenko to Emily Carr. Yet, strangely enough, it is also where her art strayed from the concrete and into the abstract. After some personal reflection at the university, Litvinenko began to focus on “a great idea behind something” for the first time. Today, it is a part of her everyday work.

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“I was asked to question everything, including myself, my intentions, and whether my art has the ability to impact the world in any way,” said Leanna, about how Emily Carr inspired her current pieces. “I see a lot of parallels between the way I live my life and the way I handle my abstract paintings. In my current work, there are many layers. The process is quite chaotic but the result is harmonious, kind of like my personality. That brings me satisfaction because it confirms that I am staying true to myself and, therefore, am on the right track.”

While her time in school did push Livinenko to ask the bigger questions, travelling abroad greatly influenced her artistry as well. After visiting Northern India in 2013, she was “taken by the culture, the vastness of Himalayan mountains, and the freedom [she] felt.” In Europe, she studied the great works of the Renaissance and improved her understanding of human anatomy. New York’s Museum of Modern Art introduced her to abstract impressionism and sent her on a “learning frenzy” about the genre. Finally, growing up in Ukraine, specifically, left its impression on the artist with its vibrant culture. Specifically, Leanna adored Ukrain’s many street artists. “Those artists are who I looked up to growing up, and I am still in awe of their technical abilities.,” she happily recalled. “I could not find a way to express the impact it all had on my psyche with realistic paintings,” said Litvinenko, about her globetrotting. Thus, her abstract work was born.

The work itself is multi-media; the paintings are created using a combination of chalk pastels, ink, watercolour, spray paint, acrylic paint, and gels. In terms of process, Leanna likes to demonstrate her “great idea” of chance. The work revolves around “lucky mistakes” or, as put by Litvenenko, “unexpected turning points in the process, conceived by the paint itself, that take the work in a whole new direction.” She sees herself as nothing more than a “necessary active agent”, despite constructing everything from the canvas to the piece itself.

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“Normally, I begin the painting near the centre by drawing with pastels and mixing it with liquefied acrylic, followed by a spill of water. After, I spray the wet surface with spray paint. The chemical reaction between these two mediums creates an interesting design. I repeat those actions until I see something I like,” Litvenko explained, about her artistic process. “I can’t get too attached to anything I make in the process, as the next layer might cover it completely. If I get too attached to something in the piece, I treat is as a precious object and the painting stays incomplete. One of my professors told me, ‘Don’t be afraid to kill your babies’, referring to the destruction of unsuccessful creations that inhibit the ability to move forward. Now, I work by that mantra, and it has been a wonderful ride so far.”

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Leanna will be exhibiting at this year’s Art World Expo in Vancouver.

Buy tickets to the event here or visit Leanna’s site to learn more about her or purchase a piece.