yeg artists

Edmonton-here we come!

Did you know that ART WORLD EXPO 2019-Edmonton Official Page is coming up on March 15, 2019? This will be our second production in Edmonton with Art World and this year is set to be amazing! The talent in Alberta is amazing!

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We have tickets available here: https://theartworldexpo.com/attend-event-3/

Vendor applications here:
https://theartworldexpo.com/exhibitor-information/

Be an affiliate, sell tickets and make extra money! Sign up here: https://theartworldexpo.com/affiliate-sales-team/

In addition, if you are an Alberta business owner, we would love to get you involved as a sponsor! Auction item donation and sponsorship opportunities in exchange for marketing at the event or on social media are all options. Do you have a store in Edmonton, a business or a service you would like to promote to our guests, vendors and followers? Send us a message if you’re interested or if you have a recommendation of someone we should connect to! Check out: https://theartworldexpo.com/sponsorship/

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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Monika Blichar is an Entrepreneur and Artist. She is owner of Monika’s Art Boutique-Studio & Gallery in North Vancouver and producer of Art World Expo and Painting Dreams International Art Tours. She is always pushing boundaries as an artist and creative entrepreneur. Her love of the arts has been a part of her life since childhood.

Interview with Body Painter Rouge Gear Body Art

by Monika Blichar

Body paint is an amazing art form. It’s incredible what artists can create in just a few hours and even more incredible that the medium has to be washed off within the same day. It’s a fleeting kind of art-one that can only be truly enjoyed in person just after it is created. I met Rouge Gear Body Art online and have been taken with what she has accomplished-very excited to see her work in person! I caught up to her today and asked her about her work.

1-When did you start make up and body painting?

I started in October of 2016.

2-Your instagram is very active! How do you maintain such engagement on social media?

I have been in many international collaborations and online contests, since I started Halloween 2016, the first few of which were Christmas 2016. I have also had my work shared on various feature pages, and I’ve been featured in Skinmarkz Magazine. I love connecting with other artists, and appreciate all different kinds of art, as I am actually a mixed media artist! I have made some amazing friends, and it is easy to find inspiration and beauty everywhere. Happily, I am consistently approached by other artists for friendship, and collabs, I try to be a support whenever possible. The Instagram Body Art Community is an amazing supportive place. I count myself honoured to be among some of the most talented, awesome people I have ever met, let alone be considered their friend and collaborate with them!

3-Your range of characters and make up is extensive. Do you have a favourite project or character you have created?

Yes, I get bored easily, and I love to challenge myself! I am known for my Skulls and Cat characters. My most recent favourite project was a demon transformation, from a human I divided into 4 parts. I was also required to write a story to connect all the makeup looks as well. I won second prize in this online contest, always so exciting!

4-Can you give us a hint about your “Lady Luck” body painting entry for Art World Expo Body Painting Competition at the Muttart on March 16?

I have something pretty intense planned, there will be accessories, and possibly prosthetics as well.

5-Where would you like to see your arts business in five years?

I’d like to be able to help support my family, and stay at home with my daughter! I have a secondary account for my Carvings, Jewellery and Sculptures @rougegearsurvivalart on Instagram.

6-Just for fun: If you could do make up for anyone past, present or future, who would it be?

That’s a tough one! I would love to meet so many artists, I hardly know where to begin although my favorite makeup artist is Mimi Choy, or @mimles here on Instagram. I love science fiction and fantasy so much, I would love to work with Tim Burton, or Guillermo del Toro.

To learn more about Rouge Gear Body Art visit her active Instagram account! Be sure to check out her entry into the Art World Expo Edmonton Body Painting Competition on March 16, 2018 at the Muttart Conservatory!

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.

Interview with Edmonton Artist Maureen Donovan

by Monika Blichar

There are many artists in Edmonton but what drew me to Maureen was actually her Instagram account. She is active, robust and very engaging on her IG which is something very nice to see. Her work ranges from all sorts of subject matter but it is her eagerness to express herself creatively that is so conveyed in her work. I haven’t met her yet, but I know that from our interactions in the vortex of the online world, we will become great friends I am sure! I caught up to Maureen and here’s what she had to say about watercolour, life and super-powers.

1-Why did you choose watercolour as a medium?

It found me actually. I was so busy in my life that I needed something to bring me back to calm, peace, my center and found advertised in our community paper of Onoway AB Adult Watercolour courses at the high school by artist Dave Ripley. That was it. I took one course and I was hooked.

2-You say that you had spent most of your life doing anything but art. How has art changed your life since discovering your passion for it?

Art enhanced my life! It takes me out of life’s whirlwind of busyness and captivates me. Art keeps me spellbound while creating in the moment. Mixing colours and transforming them into an art work is rewarding. It’s a positive, spiritual experience. It’s fun! It’s JOY!

3-You mention that you have taken inspiration from your travels for your art. Where is your favourite place you have visited and have you painted it?

I have been to so many countries. I have just begun to paint series of paintings from those travels. I Love Africa, our ocean adventures, Asia…there are too many places to mention and so much to paint. It would take more than a life time to paint all my favourite places and wildlife. And we are still traveling. It’s like I paint from my photographs and memories and people get to know who I am through my art.

4-Where would you like to see your art in the next five years?

Because there is so much to learn and so many people to learn from I hope my style becomes recognizable as my own. If in 5 years one person was to say ‘that looks like Maureen’s work’, I would feel like I have achieved this goal.

5-What advice would you give to emerging artists?

Let your self resonate in your creations. Experience the love and joy in expression. Be confident in and trust your uniqueness. Let your passions guide you.

6-For fun. If you had a super power, what would it be?

I would love to be able to give others the ability to see their gifts and talents and the trust to develop them to acheive their dreams.

Words to share: Never be afraid to try new things and take advantage of every opportunity – for you never know – you just might uncover a passion that may change the way you dream, care for yourself and how you discover every moment in life that belongs to you – colour it proudly!

To learn more about Maureen, visit her famous Instagram account and check out her exhibit at the Muttart on March 16, 2018! Get your tickets today, we are running low with only 83 tickets left!