Sandra Di Leo was born in Wawa, Ontario and moved to Toronto in 1997. She graduated from George Brown College in 2000 in Graphic Design. She has been a designer ever since, meanwhile also establishing herself as an artist. Sandra has been painting ever since she was child. She is known for her contemporary abstract expressionist artwork. She took part in our July Kaleidoscope Exhibition and we got to ask her some questions.
Do you have a favourite medium? What materials/tools do you use the most and why?
I work solely in acrylics on either canvas or wood, I prefer the fast-drying nature of acrylic paint and the flexibility that it offers me.
When did you first start painting and why?
I've been drawing and painting since childhood. Painting allows me to express moments of emotional intensity through colour instead of words, it gives me the ability to document my life through my art and offers me an in-depth process of self-discovery.
What inspires you to paint?
I am inspired by many things — my paintings are an introspective exploration of moments/memories that I am recording visually through my art. My deep affinity to nature which is rooted from my upbringing in northern Ontario has a significant influence on my work.
Do you have a favourite painting in the collection you're exhibiting? Could you explain the meaning and/or process behind it?
My favourite piece in this exhibition is "Bang, Bang, Kiss, Kiss" . This colourful artwork is composed of rich textures on a wood panel, the fluidity and spontaneity of the black paint drips and colour layering in this artwork are reminiscent of some street art techniques. This piece is filled with euphoric energy.
Has your art changed at all during the pandemic?
Yes, most definitely, like most artists, I have used this time to focus on my work and explore new directions. I’ve recently released a series of paintings with a calming palette to soothe the soul and emanate comfort and harmony. Blue is a prominent colour in these pieces as it evokes serenity and stability. The body of work engages with viewers mindfully and offers a sense of well-being. This was an important direction for me to explore as an artist, during a time of so much distress and uncertainty.
Sandra’s participation in the Kaleidoscope exhibit is not her first time showcasing her artwork at Twist Gallery and most definitely not the last one.