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Interview with Calgary Artist Gloria Gelo

by Monika Blichar

I love colour more than anything. I often wear black but usually pair it with pops of colour and surround myself with loads of it. There’s something about it that makes me happy which is exactly how I felt when Gloria Gelo’s submission came in for this year’s SOLD OUT show at the Muttart Conservatory! Gloria’s work conveys passion, adventure and emotion through the use of a variety of colour and abstraction. I caught up with her to learn a little more about what she does and what she will be selling at this Friday’s event!

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1-When did you start making art?

I started drawing and painting from a very early age. All I ever wanted was to become an artist. I studied fine art in college, but choices in life took me in different directions, yet all of them allowed me to remain creative in some way. I managed to be creative where creativity wasn’t always appreciated, and each journey has helped shape who I am. I believe that life leads you to who and where you need to be and mine led me through many paths that ultimately came full circle to where my heart has always been, an artist. I left my corporate job in January 2018 and finally started painting full time and living my dream.

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2-What inspires you to do abstract art?

Everything! At a young age my work was very representational. When I picked up the brushes again after 30 years, I started with realism, and then quickly realized I didn’t want to feel constrained. I am a perfectionist by nature, so creating abstract art allows me to be more free and let go so the other side of Gloria has some time to play.

3-People often ask about the meaning of abstract art. What is the meaning for you?

For me, abstract art is my interpretation of either what is in front of me, or what is felt in my heart as I paint. My intent is to create art that makes people feel something, and hopefully reflect and recall moments in their lives that bring them joy.

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4-Do you create work based on feelings, experiences, themes or subject matter in mind?

All of the above! When I go into the studio, I never really know how the pieces will turn out, but somehow the concepts, colours, design, and composition seem to emerge before me, almost intuitively. It’s a wonderful way to paint. In fact, a friend asked me if one of my pieces was inspired by the circles on my kitchen rug, and oddly enough, without realizing, it was!

5-What will you have at the Art World Expo on March 16 at the Muttart? Will you have an exclusive show specials or promotions?

I’m excited to showcase my work in ink, resin and acrylic polymer at the show. The colours are bright and bold. I was inspired by the 60’s for some of the work, and in an effort to get looser and more free with my paintings, I blasted the stereo and ended up with a series that is filled with movement and colour. Yes, so swing by my booth to say hello and find out.

6-What are your art plans for your business in the next five years?

That’s a good question. I want to continually explore new ways to express myself and the world around me. I hope to keep learning, grow as an artist and give back through teaching as the years go by.

6-Just for fun: If you could interview any artist past or present, who would it be and why?

Georgia O’Keefe! She was the Mother of American Modernism. She created art based on her interpretation and personal style, rather than just a realistic copy. I love her images of natural things, especially flowers, portrayed in a simple and meaningful way.

To learn more about Gloria, visit her Facebook Page. Be sure to stop in at her booth at the show this Friday if you have your ticket! We are sold out this year-tickets for next year’s event will be on sale soon!

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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 Edmonton based artist Mr. Patrick Ennis

by Monika Blichar

Every once in a while, I come across an artist that is both proficient in marketing and creation. Let me tell you, this is not a common denominator in the Art World! When I do happen to find an artist who is steadfast about his or her career and is taking hold of all angles of business as much as he or she is creating, it gets me excited! One of the many things that we at Art World try to teach artists is that they need to be their own advocate for their art and really be their own brand ambassador. Mr. Patrick Ennis is doing just that and we are thrilled to have him be one of the artists in our Edmonton show on March 16.

Today, I caught up with Mr. Patrick Ennis whom I hear is a staple in the Edmonton art scene. Here’s what he had to say!

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1-When did you start making art?

I have  been painting 14 years and have made about 3000 paintings, had dozens of art shows across Canada as well as participated in a T.V show called “Painting with Pat”. I have worked with  many people over the years,  including being an artist in residence  at the Lotus Art Galley and Isbe Domain Gallery . I received formal training from the last Poet Laureate of Ottawa the Honorable Patrick White.

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2-You are working full time on your art. What kinds of things do you do daily to be able to turn your art into a full time career?
When I start my day doing work, I usually pre-paint the canvas and draw out the sketch. I try and get to work in the mornings, and spend the afternoon networking and advertising.
3-A lot of your work has reference to the universe. What draws you to painting this subject matter so often in your work?
I have always been fascinated with space, it’s kinda the Biggest thing in the universe, and the mother of life and creation. I also look for similarities in life, like patterns that replicate like the way trees grow like veins,or the universe existing on a microscopic level.
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4-What kinds of pieces will you have at the Art World Expo Edmonton? Will you be offering any show specials or contests at your exhibition?
I am going to have a variety of paintings at the Edmonton Art Expo, from still life to surrealism, and landscapes. I find people take creativity more seriously if you can also paint realistic art.
5-What has been the most interesting thing about being an artist so far on your journey?
The most interesting thing about being an artist is it’s always different. Everyday the possibilities are endless. To quote Einstein “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited.”
6-If you could achieve anything with your work, what would be your dream within your art business?
I have always enjoyed the responses to my art the most.  Having people have their minds blown by creating illusions of perspectives that can’t exist in the physical universe, but can be created using art. I often merge realities like people swimming in nebula. Art is very subjective to the person viewing it and the real mystery is that people can have different emotional responses to the same painting.
To learn more about Patrick, visit his Facebook page HERE. Get your tickets to the event today! Limited number remain!