As we open our doors to our new Ponder Exhibit, we are thrilled to introduce you to the creative minds behind the art that will be showcased. In this blog, you will get a deep dive into the artistic visions of the participants, bringing exclusive insight straight from the source. 

Join us as we explore their unique perspectives and passion for their work. Each question and answer reveals not just their technique but also the core to their creativity. 

Whether you are an art connoisseur or a curious reader, there's something here for everyone to appreciate and ponder. 

SUSAN ROSS

You mention being inspired by the shapes and patterns found in nature. Can you elaborate on how you translate these natural abstractions into your artwork, particularly for this exhibition?

Working intuitively allows me to tap into the inherent abstraction of the natural world. I intensify and enhance those abstract elements. When painting more abstractly, I grapple with finding the right balance between recognizable forms and personal interpretation. Colour is a powerful tool in this process—I love creating bold contrasts. The shapes and patterns I draw from the landscape, reflections in water, and the interplay of light and colour become focal points in my work. Ultimately, this exhibition is all about connection. Through my art, I aspire to transport viewers to those meaningful places and evoke their own memories and experiences. 

What drew you to focus on impressionistic landscapes, and how has your style evolved over the years?

I have always been drawn to the natural world, it has been a vital part of my life. Throughout my painting life, my work has weaved in and out of pure abstraction to impressionistic landscapes. I find the natural world to be inherently abstract.

I really loved the idea of combining the two. This body of work in particular came out of years of abstract painting. 

You've received several awards for your work, including The Sun Times People’s Choice Award.  How has this recognition influenced your artistic journey so far?

It really helps to sustain the work when you get recognition for it. Not that I would stop if I didn’t have it, but it helps. I think it's very important for the work to have a connection with the viewer. Painting is such a solo experience so to share it and have it appreciated is very rewarding.

Can you elaborate on what you feel is uniquely "Susan Ross" about your Canadian landscapes? 

I think growing up in northern Ontario, with its rugged and intense terrain, has left an indelible mark on my artistic sensibilities. That raw beauty serves as a constant wellspring of inspiration for my paintings. My love for nature is deeply embedded in my work. The landscapes I create draw from personal experiences—whether it’s kayaking, hiking, or leisurely walks. When I capture reference photos, they freeze moments from these special locations. To me, it’s all about forging a dialogue with nature through my art. 

How do you hope viewers will engage with and interpret your works in the "PONDER" exhibition?

I would hope there is a connection or an experience that can occur between the viewer and the painting. It’s incredibly rewarding when someone tells me that a particular painting evokes memories of a special place or a moment from their past, transporting them back to that time. If my painting can transform into a real place for the viewer—one where they’ve had a meaningful experience—that would be the ultimate achievement for me.

TREVOR CLARE

How do you balance traditional techniques like acrylic and gouache with digital art in your creative process?

I've been painting with traditional mediums since I was around 10 years old, grounding my artistic background in the physical nature of painting. In the past five years, I've started exploring digital art and discovering compelling ways to combine my knowledge of both worlds. My experience with traditional mediums has profoundly influenced my digital work, as many of the same principles seamlessly transfer to the digital realm. I continue to work with gouache and practice plein air painting whenever possible, as it's an excellent way to sharpen and refine my skills. Drawing inspiration directly from the real world adds immense value to my artistic journey.

Can you explain the concept of "neo-nostalgia" and how it manifests in your work?

I've always been drawn to nostalgia, naturally gravitating toward themes that evoke a sense of place and its significance. This deep connection to the past informs much of my work today. I’ve coined the term 'neo-nostalgia' to describe my approach—where the digital, contemporary medium of technology intersects with traditional, timeless subject matter.

How do you choose which urban landmarks to feature in your paintings?

Much of my work draws inspiration from the local landmarks and hidden gems within my own community. Some of these places are well-known, while others are more unexpected—small mom-and-pop shops, diners, bookstores, and convenience stores where I would spend time with friends or grab last-minute groceries. These seemingly ordinary places hold deep meaning for me, shaping my daily life in subtle yet significant ways. As I began sharing my art, I discovered that many others shared similar connections to these spaces. I strive to capture places and experiences that resonate with people in nostalgic and sometimes surprising ways. I also welcome requests and recommendations from the community, always keeping an open mind.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to capture the spirit of their local communities in their work?

Over the years, I've learned the importance of keeping an open mind. It's essential to observe and pay attention to even the most mundane or unexpected places, as they often hold the most rewarding surprises. These seemingly ordinary spots can sometimes inspire the best work. My approach involves finding ways to tell a story and capture the essence of a place’s spirit. This often means using vibrant, neon color combinations, playing with light to evoke a mood, and incorporating subtle signs of life. Storytelling transforms a piece of art from something merely visually appealing into an immersive experience that invites viewers to connect on a deeper level.

CHRISTIE BAKER

As a self-taught artist with a diverse professional background, how have your past experiences in figure skating, advertising, and music management influenced your artistic voice in your artworks?

I have always been a creative person. I believe it is that sense of creativity that connects each phase of my life, and serves as the through-line on the long and winding path that led me to where I am today. As an ice dancer, I was drawn to the artistic side of figure-skating; advertising is innately creative; and my work in music management was highly focussed on the branding and PR side of the industry. My artistic voice comes from me being authentically me, and I wouldn’t be the person I am today if not for all of the things that came before. 

How do you ensure the emotional depth of each piece is conveyed to the viewer?

Creating a sense of emotional depth is a moving target. What connects emotionally for one person will not necessarily connect for another. My litmus test when I am nearing the end of a piece, the question I ask myself that is the only guide I can rely on, is  “Does it speak to me? Do I feel something when I look at it?”. If I can honestly answer, “Yes”, then I am satisfied. 

How has your studio mentorship impacted the works you've created for "PONDER"?

The studio mentorship I completed was a few years ago, before my first art show. I was thrilled to be selected, having no experience in the art world at the time. My mentor was a well-known landscape artist from the west coast who had a beautiful way of capturing small moments with such simplicity, I couldn’t help but be inspired. I have tried to find my own way of doing that, of distilling moments and places and memories into simple gestural marks and brush strokes. When the mentorship began I was new to painting, still very insecure and feeling my way through mediums and techniques. I didn’t even know how oil paints work! I cried a lot during that mentorship, but I also celebrated some major triumphs. That was the beginning for me. It gave me the confidence to press forward and lead to the type of work I create today, including the pieces in PONDER. 

What techniques help you maintain a consistent artistic voice?

Like many artists, I struggle to maintain a consistent artistic voice, while still allowing myself to explore and push beyond the work I am currently creating. When I really need to produce something consistent, I focus on three things: my mark-making, my colour palette and my subject matter. If I can keep at least two of these three things consistent, the work will be cohesive.

What inspired your latest series of pieces?

My landscape work is inspired by memories, and the pieces I am showing in PONDER are no exception. When I start a painting I have no vision in my mind. I don’t typically paint from images. However, as I lay down colours and move paint around, I begin to see shapes, shadow and light. By about half-way through a painting I know that I am painting something from my past, a distant memory of something meaningful, impactful, and important to me. It is like each painting lives somewhere in my subconscious, and then reveals itself to me in its own time. I don’t strive for realistic re-creation, but let the haziness of the past, as seen through the veil of emotions, take centre stage.

DAVID MOIR

Can you share how your experiences in the northern Ontario environment have shaped your artistic identity?

My experiences in the Northern Ontario environment has helped shape my artistic identity. The natural beauty of Lake Matinenda and the surrounding region inspired a deep appreciation for the rugged wilderness that defines Algoma. In addition to my experiences in Northern Ontario, my travels across Canada have exposed me to a diverse array of scenery. This connection to the North was further influenced by the work of the Group of Seven, whose ability to capture the essence of Canada’s landscapes has always inspired me. Their dedication to portraying the raw beauty of the North resonates with my own artistic vision.

What emotions do you aim to evoke in viewers through your depictions of northern landscapes?

Through my depictions of northern landscapes, I aim to evoke a love of nature in viewers. The beauty of the wild, mostly untouched wilderness is something that has always resonated with me, and I want to share that connection through my art. Through my art, I hope to share with others the sense of awe and reverence I experience in these natural environments.

By capturing a scene, I strive to inspire an admiration for nature, reinforcing the importance of preserving these landscapes for future generations. My hope is that, in experiencing my work, people will feel a connection to nature and an appreciation of the tranquillity and inspiration that the northern wilderness offers.

How has your artistic practice evolved as you continue to explore the landscapes of northern Ontario?

As I continue to explore the landscapes of Northern Ontario, each new experience in these remote places teaches me more about the subtleties of the natural world, allowing me to fine-tune my skills and deepen my understanding of the environment I seek to capture.

I've also developed recurring themes in my work, particularly my focus on painting lighthouses. These structures, often found in isolated and lonely places, have become a symbol of resilience and solitude in my art. They serve as a bridge between the human presence and the wilderness that often surrounds them. Additionally, my exploration of themes like isolation has extended to other elements, such as sunsets and secluded spots in the wilderness, where I aim to convey the beauty and tranquillity of these moments.

In essence, my artistic practice is continually shaped by the unique character and emotions of these extraordinary environments.

What do you hope audiences will reflect on when they view your paintings in the context of the "PONDER" exhibition?

In the context of the "PONDER" exhibition, I hope that audiences will reflect on the beauty of nature that my paintings seek to capture. I want them to feel a connection to the landscapes I depict, encouraging the importance of preserving these environments.

What advice would you give to emerging artists who are also inspired by their natural surroundings?

For emerging artists who are inspired by their natural surroundings, my advice is to make the effort to immerse yourself in nature as often as possible. There's no substitute for the firsthand experience of being in the environment you're trying to capture. Whether it’s sitting quietly by a lake, or hiking to a remote lookout, these experiences will influence your work and deepen your connection to the natural world.

DIVYANI CHANDORKAR

How do you balance the personal, introspective nature of your "wonder-filled thoughts" with the public presentation of your art in this exhibition?

Balancing the introspective nature of my "wonder-filled thoughts" with public presentation is about creating a bridge between my inner reflections and the viewer's experience. My pastel-themed landscapes—featuring dreamy skies, calm seas, flower fields, and a subtle sailing ship—capture my personal sense of tranquillity. By focusing on universal themes of nature and serenity, I invite viewers into a shared moment of peace and contemplation. The art remains deeply personal, yet it offers a space for others to find their own meaning and connection within the work.

What unexpected connections have you discovered between your cultural background and painting expressions?

The unexpected connections between my cultural background and painting expressions often reveal themselves in subtle ways. Growing up in India, I was surrounded by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and a deep appreciation for nature and symbolism. These influences naturally seep into my work, even when I'm not consciously aware of them.

For example, the use of color in my pastel-themed landscapes often reflects the bright and warm hues found in traditional Indian art and textiles. There's a certain fluidity in how I approach composition, which I realize echoes the flowing, rhythmic patterns seen in Indian designs. Additionally, the themes of tranquillity and connection with nature in my paintings are deeply rooted in cultural values that emphasize harmony and balance.

These cultural influences enrich my art, adding layers of meaning that might not be immediately obvious but are felt on a deeper level. It’s a continuous journey of discovery, where I see how my heritage subtly shapes my creative expressions, blending the personal with the universal.

What aspect of your artistic voice do you feel is most prominently showcased in your artwork for this exhibition?

In this exhibition, my artistic voice is most prominently showcased through the serene and contemplative quality of my pastel-themed landscapes. The use of soft colors, dreamy skies, and tranquil scenes reflects my focus on evoking a sense of peace and introspection. This approach captures the essence of my inner world while inviting viewers to find their own moments of calm and reflection.

What role does color play in conveying emotion in your artwork for this show?

In this show, color plays a crucial role in conveying emotion by setting the mood and enhancing the overall atmosphere of my artwork. The soft, pastel hues create a calming and soothing effect, helping to evoke feelings of serenity and introspection. By carefully choosing and blending colors, I aim to guide viewers through a gentle emotional journey, allowing them to connect deeply with the tranquillity and subtle beauty of the scenes.

What has been the most profound personal revelation you've experienced while creating your abstract works for this exhibition?

The most profound personal revelation I’ve experienced while creating my abstract works for this exhibition is how deeply my emotions and inner thoughts can be translated into visual language. Working abstractly has shown me the power of non-representational forms to express complex feelings and states of mind. This process has been especially meaningful as immigrating to a new country and starting from scratch has adversely affected my mental health. However, starting to paint here in Canada has been like a ray of hope, allowing me to explore and understand my emotional landscape in new and meaningful ways.

What new artistic territories or techniques do you hope to explore in your future artworks?

In my future artworks, I hope to explore new artistic territories and techniques such as mixed media, incorporating textured materials, digital enhancements, and palette knife techniques. I’m also interested in experimenting with dynamic color palettes, unconventional compositions, and interactive or immersive art forms to expand my expressive range and engage viewers in new ways.

TAMARA THOMPSON

Can you describe your process of layering glazes to create a new reality from old images?

The process of layering glazes enhances and enables me to tell a story of my travels through local parks and beaches, as the layered patterns found in the image references emerge. Sometimes the old images are  short video clips looped that illustrate the contrasting patterns of light and shadows emitted from the motion. The mix of flora and fauna within the images are deconstructed through observation and repetitive motions. The  layering of paint glazes allows the process of observation to show through, and show myself navigating through the feeling the memory of the space evokes. From this process of layering, a new image emerges that is a closer representation of the intrigue and vibrancy of the landscape, that surpasses the exact likeness of the place but instead illustrates the emotional significance of it through small intersections of memory. 

How has your residency at the Living Arts Centre influenced the pieces you've created so far?

The artist residency at the Living Arts Centre was a great opportunity to uncover new ways of working after completing my final year at OCAD University. The collaborative space allowed for conversations and peer reviewed critiques and enabled me to build a body of work. I was able to work at and explore my layering techniques of paint mediums, playing with different pigment strengths and paint opacities. I also had space to create larger and smaller works,  to explore how the brushstrokes changed over time in conjunction with the various sizes and glaze strengths. 

In what ways does your work reflect the interplay between anxiety and calm reflection?

My work reflects the interplay between anxiety and calm, as the completed  image of the  landscape emits a peaceful energy, but the physicality of the layering and capturing motion through a slow medium like paint, is an anxious act. The motion captured through the layering of glazes of color and light completes a final imaginative piece that allows the viewer to feel a sense of calm and positive exploration of each brushmark and section of the painting. The universal experience of memory of places being in fragments and not complete final pictures, is demonstrated through this interplay of anxiously trying to capture emotion and patterns from observation, and the calm reflection of the finalized work. Overall, the viewer may react to certain areas of abstraction  more vividly than others, as they recall a memory of place through a previous experience.

How does the layering process enhance the emotional impact of your paintings?

The layering process enhances the emotional impact of my paintings, as each layer is a reflection of the remnants of texture, color and natural patterns of the landscape that was experienced. Sometimes it is multiple images of the landscape that I reference in motion, and the layering process allows me to build on each texture and pattern to form a new perspective of the landscape. By doing so,  the elevated emotions from the memory of the place is evoked through the exploration of the visual layers. 

What role does memory play in the creation of your abstract pieces?

Memory is a key ingredient in my creation process and practice, as it is an integral part of the emotions that are evoked in the final imagery of the piece. Memory is not linear, and often we think of places once travelled in small bite size pieces and fragments. Other times we remember how the places made us feel, or vividly remember details such as the contrast of shadows in the water,  the sound of wind in the leaves or how hot the sun rays felt in the moment. Through the layered abstraction of my work, the viewer may find pieces they remember or relate to.

BARBARA CHAPMAN

What inspires you to explore the skies and atmosphere in your pieces

I grew up on the eastern edge of Canada where the sky has always told a story about what was to come and often the atmosphere near the ocean had a presence that could be felt before it was seen. My deepest memories are that of fog and mist and the smell and sound of the ocean.

Do you think you see the world differently than non-artists? If so, how?

I often wonder about this, and yes, I believe maybe, but perhaps it is not a seeing but a noticing and a feeling. I notice colours and shapes that sometimes others don’t and I often see light and shadow as a colour and a temperature.

Your statement mentions the "network of natural communication" in forests. How do you represent this interconnectedness in your paintings?

The connection of trees and their surrounding infrastructure is often represented through their root systems and the places where trees become joined with the earth and the underground. Roots are also indicative of the incredible network of fungi that live and support ecosystems and of course, parallel our human and familial connectedness.

Are there any particular environmental issues that you aim to highlight through your art? 

I worry mostly about climate change and the deforestation that continues to take place in this country and beyond. Trees are one way that the planet stays cooler, our air cleaner and precious soil stays in place.

Can you describe your process for choosing colours to represent the mood and atmosphere of old growth forests?

I have studied colour theory in depth and prefer to work from a colour palette that reflects the natural world. Umbers, siennas and ochres are staples for me as well as the colours of the impressionists. Mostly modern colours do not find their way into my language of colour.

JESSICA. E. TURNER

You focus on vulnerable feminine subjects. What draws you to these themes, and what do you hope people feel when they see your work?

My focus on feminine subjects arises from a profound interest in exploring the complexities of my own femininity—how societal expectations, cultural narratives, and personal experiences shape my identity. We are all intricate beings, and our subconscious often remains hidden due to fear, leading us to protect ourselves. 

Femininity can be suppressed out of fear of the vulnerability associated with it. In my paintings, however, there is no fear of vulnerability; instead, it is portrayed as a form of protection and a divine experience. While these moments may be fleeting in real life, they find permanence in my art. My paintings serve as a personal reminder of the deeper parts of myself that yearn to be expressed. 

I hope that when people view my work, they connect with their own inner depths and recognize the beauty in vulnerability, longing, and yearning. My art aims to gently inspire viewers to explore and express their subconscious selves in a healthy and meaningful way.

Do you have any funny or interesting stories from your time in art school?

My first year in undergraduate school at OCAD University, it was mandatory to take a drawing class. We had an unexpected life drawing of a nude male model, and after we were all finished, we had to walk around the classroom to look at everyone’s drawing. When people got to my drawing, they burst out laughing. That one stayed with me because although funny to look back at, I was actually horrified in that moment.

Have you ever had a "happy accident" while painting that turned out great?

Yes, "happy accidents" can be a delightful part of the creative process! Sometimes, an unexpected brushstroke or colour blending in an unplanned way can lead to a surprising and beautiful result. These moments often add a unique character to the piece, making it more dynamic and layered. It’s like the artwork takes on a life of its own, guiding the process in a direction you hadn’t anticipated but that enhances the overall composition.

You mentioned that painting helps you find peace. Can you share a time when creating art helped you through a tough moment?

When I returned to Belleville from Toronto at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, I faced a challenging adjustment period. The pressure of completing my final year of school online, coupled with the difficulty of leaving behind a supportive community, left me feeling isolated. The experience was so overwhelming that I needed significant help from doctors to cope. Being an artist can be inherently isolating, so having a network of peers is essential. Finding a new art community in Belleville was a turning point—it encouraged me to continue creating and sharing my work. This connection not only supported my artistic practice but also helped me work through the residual emotions from the pandemic.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start making art but feels unsure about it?

Don’t overthink it—just start. I learned about a technique called “automatic writing” during a writing class at OCAD. The idea is to let go of your thoughts and just write without judgement. I believe this approach applies to all art forms as well. Dive in, think about it later, and keep practising. Over time, you’ll see improvement. Sometimes, thinking too much can hinder your progress in learning something new. Remember, courage is often underestimated. And it takes courage to do anything new.

As we’ve gotten a deeper understanding into the artistic vision, we hope you have gained an appreciation for the stories and inspirations behind our talented artists. Their answers have given a glimpse into their artistic world.

Thank you for joining us and we hope you enjoyed getting to know our artists.To truly immerse yourself in their incredible work, we invite you to visit Twist Gallery in person at 1100 Queen Street West, Toronto.

See the art up close, feel the creative energy, and be inspired by the stories behind each piece. Don't miss out—plan your visit today and experience the magic of our gallery firsthand!