“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” — Picasso
A Little Bit about Sandra!
Sandra Di Leo is an International award-winning designer and contemporary abstract-expressionist artist. She was born in Wawa (northern Ontario) in 1978 and has lived in Toronto since 1997. She studied art and design at George Brown College where she graduated from the graphic design program in 2000.
Source: https://sandradileoart.com/press
She is represented by Spence Gallery, Petroff Gallery and Denison Gallery in Toronto as she regularly exhibits in art galleries and major art events in Canada and the United States; so, we are lucky enough to have her at our current exhibit, Energy! Her pieces are in private collections across North America and also donated to charitable foundations, such as Design Hope Toronto, Sunnybrook and ISAND.
A Little Bit about the Pieces:
Sandra asks: “Can we see things the way children do? Can we appreciate the beauty in simple things? Can we feel and express emotion with the same intensity as a child?”
Since she has been painting since childhood, she explores childhood themes that are both imaginary and real through the fundamentals of colour, composition and texture in solely acrylic paint. Her artwork evolves as she continues to produce pieces, just as a child does with experience.
“In this collection, I explore these questions and conceptual ideas of memory and emotion based on childhood themes. Themes of innocence, joy, adventure and make-believe are examined and communicated through a series of paintings which document my childhood.”
How does a focus on childhood influence the way you paint?
“Fueled by memories of my joyful youth, I paint intuitively, as I am pulled between the conscious and the unconscious of my divided self. As I connect to the piece, I explore the crossover between my past observances and the present, and translate these elements into my art. I start by silencing the mind and free myself of any preconceived notions — by applying the process of unlearning I am given a new beginning which allows me to interpret my experiences with the same free spirit as they were once observed.”
How does Energy come out in your work?
“I apply bold, vivid colours and relay these captured recollections through the use of colour psychology. The cheerful colour palette evokes a positive response and allows my viewers to see a world that is best described through colour instead of words.
Loose expressive brushstrokes and black fluid lines are applied to convey certain emotions more boldly and express a sense of play. I add layers of colour and texture, patching and recovering until I find perfect balance and harmony.” — SANDRA
Come check out Sandra Di Leo’s artwork in person!
Visit us at 1100 Queen Street West! Our doors are open every Tuesday to Saturday from 11am till 6pm.
You can call us at (416) 588 - 2222 or email your questions and inquiries to info@twistgallery.ca.
You can check out Sandra and the other Energy artists at Twist Artist Showcase: CLICK HERE.
Or Sandra’s website : https://sandradileoart.com/