Meet Amanda Wand!

“Extracting the Abstract” artist Amanda Wand

How did you start out as an artist?

I created my first abstract piece when I was 16 years old, I painted a heart split in the middle, one side was aflame and the other side was a question mark. I immediately knew that what I created was my most honest truth - truer than any words I could ever write. I was liberated and from there I became enthralled with using art as a form of therapy and self-expression.

How did you get into creating abstract artwork? What does abstract mean to you?

 I’ve always been an abstract artist. I have tried many different styles of creation – photography, printmaking, drawing, still life painting, etc when I was in school, however, I always gravitated back to abstract in my spare time. I love the release and freedom in it. It is the only time when my overactive brain shuts down and falls into a flow. I found when doing representational art I was more anxious than at ease, my perfectionism kicks in so I always found myself going to abstract art as a way to relax. Creating abstract work is a journey of self-expression and self-discovery at the same time for me. What a freeing way to release and return to me a million times over. It is total self-expression, freedom, embracing the present without a plan. It opens up the creator and viewer to multiple perspectives and endless ways to interpret one piece. It makes me feel. I love the way abstract work hits my heart when creating and viewing it myself. Abstract is an invitation of inclusion for me, it allows me as an artist to own my vulnerability and channel it into something others connect with and find a piece of their story within my work.

“The Rise of Feminine Moon” by Amanda Wand

How do you describe your relationship with art? What does art mean to you?

 I love making art! I am an abstract intuitive artist that believes in the power of process through creation. I use art as a way to navigate the complex emotions of our world with the intention to invite others to process their own emotions. Art is my therapy, it is my release, my meditation. I feel a calling to create art from a deep personal intuition in order to help me make sense of my emotions and my positionality in the world. The process of making art is where I find the magic, in allowing myself to be completely present and enchanted with each movement and colour. It is a deep process of gratitude. Even in moments when I am releasing anger or sadness, there is still a gratitude for the release and the joy of using the materials. Art means expression, truth, therapy, it is multiple truths all at once and welcomes different perspectives all at the same time.

Walk us through your journey of creating an art piece.

 My work is not predetermined and I allow my intuition to guide me through the evolution of the piece. These works come from my heart which is constantly affected by societal influences and how I perceive the world is perceiving me which means the beginning state of every piece is varied in a wide range of emotions. This is why I rarely plan my pieces and instead allow my flow and intuition to guide me into creation. I will start by ensuring the space in my studio feels good, make sure the energy is what I need for the moment which could involve cleaning up, pulling an oracle card or getting in a meditative like state. I put on inspiring podcasts or music. Look at the blank canvas for a few moments and then apply either water or paint directly to the canvas, I like to use the canvas as a way to mix the paint. From there I allow myself to be in flow and choose colours and techniques by what feels good in the moment. I can get lost in this process for hours. I will eventually step back and stare at my creation for a while. I will go back in as needed to apply more colour or if it just doesn’t feel quite finished. Then I will stare at it while it dries to figure out what is the lesson, what am I supposed to know here, what is really going on with me. This naturally leads to a poetic title, that only I know the true meaning, but still invites people to participate and add their own story in it as well.

“Sparked Her Heart” by Amanda Wand

Meet Aml Sultana!

“Extracting the Abstract” artist Aml Sultana

What inspires you?

I am inspired by everything ranging from people, my past experiences, and especially music. Even though there are so many different people in my life, they each serve an important purpose in life and help me grow. After deciding to seriously pursue art, I realized that everybody expresses themselves through a form of art, whether they realize it or not. I am a strong believer in experiences telling the tale of your life, so my paintings are created in a way to tell stories from my past experiences. Music is an important aspect of my life so it is attached to every piece of work I have created. When looking at my past work, I can recall what music I was listening to which also reminds me of how I was feeling at that moment. Lana Del Rey, who I discovered in the 9th grade, has been the most impactful artist for me and she is a part of almost every piece of art that I have created since high school.

“Plated Guilt” by Aml Sultana

Why are you drawn to this subject?

Before creating this collection and being introduced to abstract art, I had the wrong perception that art had to be “clean” and “perfect. I used to believe that realistic paintings were the basis of creative art and that every line and detail had to be perfect. My first submission piece for this exhibit was out of my comfort zone because there was no plan and it was all emotion, which is what my past work was about. I enjoy creating abstract art because I had the opportunity to explore a new way of expression and could use so many different skills and techniques to create texture. Abstract art unlocked a different artistic skill that I did not know that I had and I will definitely will be exercising it in the future.

What is your collection about?

My collection focuses on my favourite pieces of work that I have created so far. I was finally able to step out of my comfort zone during the creative process, as I used different materials and an even bigger canvas. This collection tells my story of this past summer and all of the amazing opportunities that I had. I was able to discover new skills, such as murals, and experienced a new feeling of motivation and confidence towards my creative artwork. I am excited to be a part of an exhibition in a gallery that I have admired for a long time. It’s about being sure that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.

“Auriferous” by Aml Sultana

Meet Maureen Doody!

“Never Enough” by Maureen Doody

How did you start out as an artist?

Art has always played an important part in my life. I’ve always been connected to it in one way or another as a professional athlete, photographer, writer, anthropologist, and business analyst. Painting has always been a natural outlet; a way to escape and speak to a nonverbal part of my existence. It was not until a cancer diagnosis in 2017, however, that I was ‘awakened’ to fully pursue my life-long passion for painting. Holistically, it provided me with a sense of clarity and purpose towards fulfillment of living my most authentic self.

How did you get into creating abstract artwork? What does abstract art mean to you?

I seek to express intangible thoughts and emotions that I do not quite have the words for. Abstract is a language of its own. It is a means to communicate on levels often not yet understood and to expand one’s perceptions beyond the five senses. Abstraction has allowed me to distill and better communicate my emotions and ideas about life, nature and our respective place within it. Abstract does not always have to make sense or dictate a clear narrative. In abstract, you can be anyone you want to be and express anything you want to. Abstract itself is the solution and a remedy; it’s therapeutic. It is a means of exploring subjective experiences as a gateway to broader human concerns. We see art in everything around us every day; but, how we see it is different based on our own personal experiences. To be able to capture that art and interpret it in my own way is what fascinates me. Abstract art requires you to have an open, inquiring mind; you must enter the painting and see where it takes you.

“The Other Side” by Maureen Doody

Is there something that you want to convey through your artwork?

I believe that art can forge the path to one’s true self-expression and nurture a mind-body-spirit connection. I hope to engage, inspire and help others find and nurture their true purpose in life through art. I too, believe in the power of art to heal. From our first lifeline the umbilical cord, as the root that grows in the ground, we are all interconnected to each other and the world around us. The release of love through one’s lifelines and its transformation into energy and mind-body-spirit are one with the earth. Life, bound with love turns into energy in nature, light, music and eventually other people; and, how fluid the boundaries really are. I hope my work is appreciated in emotional terms, serving as a key to within, and letting the beauty be in both the painting and the viewer’s mind.

Walk us through your journey of creating an art piece.

My artistic journey is one of the intrinsic personal explorations. Employing unconventional colours, compositions and tonal schema, my paintings are an authentic expression of ‘revelations of self’; and by virtue, seek to capture the transient nature of life and the essence of the human condition. As an anthropologist, my paintings reflect my connection to the world around me, where one can discern recurring themes of truth, unity of nature, healing, reinvention, resilience, and the power of “I am”.

My process is very intuitive and emotionally driven; with other art forms such as film, music, movement and photography lending inspiration. References in my work to the appreciation of lines, light, and expression reflect a synthesis of these style influences. For me the canvas is a mouthpiece; it comes from its intention. It allows me to speak with vibrant colours, bold strokes, and fine lines. It is a means to whisper my secrets, share my passion, express my anguish, and taunt your sensibilities. Entering the studio is a time of letting go: of expectations, of structure, of rules, and of my own ideas about what’s possible and what’s not...in life and art.

“Hold On” by Maureen Doody

Is there a particular artist who inspired you to become one? Whose techniques do you study, admire or aspire to follow?

My earliest and probably most significant influence in painting stems from my late father, renowned Newfoundland ceramicist William Doody. Under his guidance and mentorship, I developed and honed my skills as a painter in both oil and acrylic mediums. He bestowed in me the work ethic required to be an artist and the importance of precision and detail in my work. 

I find beauty and inspiration in a variety of artists, artwork and art forms. For me, it is about the art in whichever form in relation to the people and the universe around us. Art is often examined through the interaction of the principles and elements of art. The principles of art include movement, unity, harmony, variety, balance, contrast, proportion and pattern. The elements include texture, form, space, shape, colour, value and line. The various interactions between the elements and principles of art help artists to organize sensorially their personal stories while also giving viewers a framework

within which to receive and interpret those stories internally. The dynamic between how these formal qualities are used to create a visual and visceral experience inspires my process and understanding.

Helma af Klint is an artist that defies and challenges the boundaries of these artistic parameters, via her use of colour, form, texture, pattern, and composition, to evoke an emotional experience in the viewer.

Meet Anna Medvedeva!

“Extracting the Abstract” artist Anna Medevedeva

What is your collection about?

 My search for new forms of expression led to my Color Field painting series. My paintings are all about nature, feelings and elements of landscapes.

How did you start out as an artist?

I began painting in my early childhood. I studied in Kustodiev Art School and Academy of Fine Arts in St-Petersburg, Russia. In early 2000’s I moved from traditional realism to my current abstraction.

“Green and Blue” by Anna Medvedeva

What inspires your art?

My inspiration comes from everyday experience and extensive travels. I try to convey the mood and feelings of places and perceptions of those memories. I transform my vision into poetic abstraction, diffused with spiritual resonance and discover the hidden beauty harmony of colour.

Can you walk us through your process of creating an art piece?

My current passion is monotype printmaking. Its unique and original painting made on smooth surfaces such as silicone pad, plexiglass or gelli-plate and transferred on paper. Thanks to this technique, I create unique paintings that cannot be copied or repeated.

The medium of monotype is a form of painting favored since the 17th century by artists such as Rembrandt, Matisse, Chagall, Picasso, Gauguin, Sam Francis, and many others. I spend a lot of time coloring and re-coloring shapes and lines until the dynamics between elements come together and a definite composition arises. I had many lovely and calming feelings working with this series.

A brief history of abstract expressionism

Before we dive into the history of abstract expressionism, we must examine the foundation that was placed before it in originating abstract art. Abstract art has its origins in the 19th century and can be described as “art that is not a representation of something from the visible world.” The shift from art being imitation to an expression of the imagination began to take place slightly before WWI with artists like Robert Delaunay, Wassily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, and Vladimir Tatlin starting to create art with no recognizable objects. Between WWI and WWII, abstract art had seen very little growth due to totalitarian politics along with a resurgence in realism and surrealism. It was the chaos caused by WW2 that helped birth the movement known as abstract expressionism.

“9” by Toronto artist Daniel Mercier featured in Twist Gallery’s “Abstracting the Extract” January/February 2020 Exhibit

During the late 1930s, as WW2 was impending, many European artists that practiced surrealism had migrated to the United States. During this time, the surrealists’ drive to create art that examined an undermining reality-based human consciousness, in addition to the anxiety and trauma experienced through the world wars, had caused artists to value art as an expression of the self and chaos within the subconscious. After the war, when the United States found itself in a time of economic despair and cultural identity crisis, abstract expressionism became America’s first real contribution to the international modern art world and lead to the eventual dominance that came along with it.  

Three Approaches to Abstract Expressionism

Action Painting

Action painting is characterized by random, loose, rapid and sometimes forceful handling of paint by brushstroke or techniques partially controlled by chance such as dripping or spilling paint onto the canvas. This style was most commonly used by painters Jackson Pollock, Franz Kline, and Willem de Cooning.

Abstract Impressionism

Abstract impressionism is seen as a middle ground between imitation and expressionism. This style can be described as more structured than action art but still very abstract in terms of shapes and techniques used. This style was popularized by artists Philip Guston, Helen Frankenthaler, Robert Motherwell, and Adolph Gottlieb.

“Sunlight” by Toronto artist Anna Medvedeva featured in Twist Gallery’s “Abstracting the Extract” January/February 2020 Exhibit

Colour-field Technique/Meditation

 The final approach to abstract expressionism doesn’t really have a name, but for the purpose of calling it something, we will refer to it as the “colour-field technique”. This approach describes an artist that uses large fields of colour and specific abstract images to invoke a meditative experience in the viewer. Barnett Newman, Ad Reinhart and especially Mark Rothko specialized in this approach to abstract expressionism.

Meet Susan Weisz!

“My aim in painting is to explore the creative process. I constantly experiment with different techniques, the goal being to produce paintings that are thought provoking and visually appealing. Ultimately, I paint because it brings me great pleasure. If I can transfer some of that pleasure to viewers of my art, then I have succeeded beyond my wildest dreams.”

How do you describe your relationship with art? What does art mean to you?

Art can provide a variety of reactions: it can soothe, challenge, provoke, inspire, delight, or evoke no emotion whatsoever. Art allows me to see things differently and provides me with a creative outlet that can be either rewarding or frustrating, but always encourages me to push forward.

Same Story, New Perspective #1, 24x24, $575

How did you get into creating abstract artwork? What does abstract mean to you?

I began painting mostly landscapes, seascapes, and florals. Eventually I started to think of different ways to paint things beyond the traditional. I liked the results. Being able to explore different ideas without feeling constrained appeals to me. I find it interesting how the same painting can evoke strikingly different responses from different observers.

Walk us through your journey of creating an art piece.

There is no single path to creating one of my pieces. The concept for the artwork could be extrapolated from photographs, from which I isolate different sections and use each of them as a reference to create an abstract painting. A series may develop almost by accident, by observing how a specific paint reacts on certain papers. The exploration continues by deciding how these new designs can be made into esthetically pleasing pieces of artwork. Other times I may be preoccupied with a shape, such as a circle or something more random, like drips, and I would experiment, creating a series or paintings. Sometimes there is no plan to begin with- just a substrate, paint, (and perhaps other media), and the tools used for application. My paintings may be used to send a message or just to create an image born from my imagination.

Dollar & Sense #1, 24x24, $575

Whose techniques do you study, admire or aspire to follow?

I studied the techniques of the instructors whose art classes and workshops I attended. I enjoy the work of artists who cover a broad range of styles such as Steve Driscoll, Angela Leach, Lawren Harris, Tom Thompson, Jackson Pollock, and the black and white pieces of Paul-Émile Borduas, to name a few.

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You can find Susan’s work right now at Twist Gallery until Friday, February 28th, 2020 and purchase her work under our “Artwork” section. Follow Susan Weisz’s work on her website and Instagram.

Meet Katie Over!

She creates with the urge to experiment with different materials. From shoe laces to spoons and forks, she can create wonderful artwork with the most unusual tools.

What inspires your art?

The paintings I’ve chosen for this exhibit are all very contrasting thoughts, and for the most part are created very differently. Each piece is a part of a new exploration in materials and colours I’ve experimented with. As an artist, I work to develop pieces that can be looked at from multiple perspectives or in different lighting and will change based on your view, leaving you to find more beauty time and time again.

I Used A Fork, 18” by 24”, $285



How did you start out as an artist?

I am an Ottawa born artist who moved to Toronto in 2015 to attend The School of Toronto Dance Theatre. Growing up as a person who really enjoyed creating things of all sorts, working with my hands and movement is what always motivated and pushed me. Upon graduating, I found myself pursuing visual arts more each day.

Green Ink, 24” by 18”, $220



What medium and technique do you use?

I try to explore the infinite ways to create a bold and unusual surface to build depth. Trying to stay away from using typical tools like paint brushes, some of my most reliable supplies to work with have been pallet knives, kitchen utensils, napkins and toilet paper. Other ways I like to create are any type of fluid or pour techniques with a gloss varnish, as well as creating a sort of puzzle-like effect using multiple canvases.

The Void, 20” by 16”, $275

Do you use bold colours for a specific reason?

I love to work with bright colours and bold textures because I find the most interesting things in life are the ones that catch your eye. And shine, sparkles, neons, and contrast do exactly that!

Meet Kaylie Sager!

For Kaylie, art is something that reflects the importance of being surrounded by nature at all times and that she believes is necessary to the very essence of who we are. 

What inspires your art?

My paintings are inspired primarily by nature and tropical environments. I like to create art that is loosely based on photographs from previous travels and put my own spin on them. Most of the pieces that I create are somewhat made up scenes. I like that you can create your own landscapes and worlds when you paint, there are no boundaries. It is the way you envision them in your head. I like to create landscapes that are tropical and bright and invite the viewer to be drawn in and become a part of the scene. My favourite landscapes are of lush tropical gardens.

Stay a While, 40” by 30”, $2400

What medium and technique do you use?

The medium that I work in is acrylic paints on canvas. I paint using a layering process where I start out with big blocks of colours and then continue to add more refined layers as I go. I like to allow the painting to grow naturally and come to life. I do not like to draw my paintings out first as I think this hinders creativity and promotes rigidity within a painting. Instead I prefer to let the composition come out naturally as I paint.

Natural Aura, 30” by 30”, $1750

How did you start out as an artist?

I Started out as an artist when I was a young child. I was always the one colouring in the corner. I decided to make a career out of art when I attended OCAD University and received my bachelor’s degree there. Since then I have been building a solid portfolio of work and doing art shows in and around the Toronto area.

Stay in the Jungle, 40” by 30”. $2400

Is there a specific piece that stands out to you? 

The piece that stands out the most to me in this collection is a painting of a path leading into a lush tropical rainforest titled “Stay in the Jungle”. This piece stands out to me the most because of the contrast of the bright tropical leaves against the calming purple sky. The bright tropical leaves really surround you while the path invites you into the scene.

The Energy of Nature, 30” by 40”, $1750

Can you walk us through your process of creating a piece?

My process for creating a piece of art begins with finding the inspiration. This might come from a previous trip I have taken, a photograph I took in the past or even just walking outside and being surrounded by nature. Once I decide what it is I want to paint, I choose the layout and jump right in. I am not one of those artists that mix all of their colours beforehand and draw everything out precisely. I like to draw with my paintbrush and let the painting come out naturally, allowing for full creative freedom and a free flowing composition.

Luminous Leaves, 24” by 30”, $1400

Do you use bold colours for a specific reason?

My colour choices often bring natural lush elements to life and allow them to jump out at you. I like to use bold colours to create contrast and a sense of vibrancy in my paintings in order to catch the viewer’s attention and really draw them into the scene. I like to experiment with colour by creating bright or contrasting skies and backgrounds that bring certain elements forward and create an inviting scenery.

Meet Megan Tracy!

A wife and a mother of four kids, our “Colour Me Bold” artist Megan Tracy is also a full time photographer.

What inspires your art?

I think that I am most inspired by nature. The ocean, flowers, the sky would be my main, but color combinations could also come from music, fashion, interiors and other areas of design that I love. 

Isleys (1 of 2), 12” by 12”, $280 for both

What medium and technique do you use?

I use resin with acrylic and alcohol inks.

Faith, 8” by 10”, $140

Walk us through your process of creating a piece.

When I start a piece, believe it or not it begins with music. Whatever vibe I’m feeling that day, I pick a playlist. Lay out my materials and off we go. I create. Sometimes there’s a plan in my head, sometimes it just goes wherever it goes.

Supreme,16” by 20”, $250

How did you start out as an artist?

I’m a photographer full time, so creating this type of art was really just exchanging people for acrylic and resin.

Green, 5” by 7”, $100

Do you use bold colours for a specific reason?

I love color. I do have my “go to“ colors, although most of them are usually bold color selections.

Meet Natasha Dichpan!

Our third Colour Me Bold artist Natasha Dichpan is also a live painter and illustrator. She finds joy in colours and mediums that are diverse and distinctive. Painting for her is a meditation which she practices to calm, to heal and to tell stories. Born in Russia, she spent her early years in Israel and is currently based in Toronto. Her art reflects the transformations she underwent while being in entirely different parts of the world. Her art speaks not one, but several languages. In a short interview with us, Natasha talked to us about her inspiration, experience and her most beloved artwork pieces.

What inspires your art?

My artwork is informed through a combination of raw feeling and formal training.  I draw inspiration from my present as much as my past and childhood I spent in Russia and Israel. I hope for my work to echo my passion and to become a call to the vulnerable, optimistic and romantic inner-chords that many of us have in common.

 Is there a specific piece that stands out to you? Why?

The two pieces that stand out to me at the moment are “Spirit” and “The Nightingale & The Rose”. They are the two most honest and autobiographical works I’ve created so far. They are pretty much self-portraits.

“The Nightingale & The Rose” by Natasha Dichpan

$1500

“Spirit” by Natasha Dichpan

$1500

Do you use bold colours for a specific reason?

I use either intense colours or no colour at all. I know this about myself - I am very much “all or nothing” kind of person, especially when it comes to things that matter most to me. I enjoy using odd colours for natural subjects like portraits or animals, picking colours that are not easily found in nature. It gives my subjects a touch of surrealism, a touch of mystery that I enjoy weaving.

Meet Lisandra Pellegrini!

Born and raised in Toronto and an OCAD grad, her main focus as an artist is to make people feel like they want to touch the work.

What inspires your art?

Inspiration can be something hidden in anything for me. It could be a dream, or a moment. Driving behind a slow truck or going for a walk. It doesn’t discriminate when it will show up or go away. Mainly, it’s that moment when the light bulb goes on.

Jet Stream, 48” by 24”, $520

What medium and technique do you use?

The medium I use mostly is acrylic paints. I have mixed paints with oil, water, sand. Experimenting with different techniques is important for me. I don’t want to stay in a box and my style is constantly changing.

Eva’s Kaleidoscope, 48” by 24”, $520

Walk us through a process of creating your art? 

Usually it comes with an idea. A colour or colours I want to use. Starting off with a base of what colours to use, the piece usually evolves from there. Commission work used to feel daunting, but I enjoy getting the customers vision. I enjoy working off a commissions energy.

The Creation of Simone, 48” by 24”, $420

Is there a specific piece that stands out to you?

I love ‘The Creation of Simone.’ it’s colours, vibrancy, structure.

Appropriate Thoughts, 36” by 24”, $300

How did you start out as an artist?

Really young I decided I wanted to be really good at drawing. I wasn’t. So I practiced a lot to get better. My only goal for a long time being young was to be an artist. Be good at making people feel something from something I made. I moved through so many mediums before I found abstract art.

Florida Fish, 40” by 30”, $500

Do you use bold colours for a specific reason? 

Go big. Use big colours. Colours that will make the viewer feel something. A memory. A taste. It’s important for some work to even make people feel uncomfortable. It may not work in a bedroom or living space, but why not? Sometimes what’s in the background should be bigger than what’s in front of your face. Colour is magical.

MEET THE “TORONTO WATERCOLOUR SOCIETY” & ITS CO-CHAIR, DONNA WILSON

The Toronto Watercolour Society was founded in 1985 by an enthusiastic group of watercolour artists and their instructor, Margaret Roseman, who envisioned an organization dedicated to their passion. With a common goal in mind, 45 people signed up as members in May of that year and created the first Annual Fall Juried Show in October 1985.

Guests at the Opening Reception for TWS 35th Anniversary Exhibit,“Aquavision”, at Twist Gallery

Now celebrating its 35th year, the organization has earned a reputation throughout Ontario for its continued commitment to its mandate, the quality of its shows and exhibitions, and the excellent work of its member artists. It has 275 engaged members (and many more on a waiting list), including those who are simply interested in watercolours to those with extensive and impressive credentials. For anyone new to watercolours, the Society provides a number of weekend workshops throughout the year with experienced, professional watercolourists.

Opening Reception for TWS 35th Anniversary Exhibit, “Aquavision”

Since Twist Gallery has the honour of hosting this 35th Anniversary Exhibition, we were lucky enough for the opportunity to ask one of the members and co-chair of the Toronto Watercolour Society, Donna Wilson (pictured below), questions to glean her own insights into the majesty of watercolour. Donna has painted with watercolours for many years and has taught watercolours for over 25 years. She has been a member of the Toronto Watercolour Society for over 12 years and presently teaches in Etobicoke.

What first drew you to watercolour as a medium?

“I love watercolour as a medium to express my vision.  I was initially drawn to it because of its easy accessibility, clean-up, less toxic and odorless compared to oils, etc.  There are no mediums necessary, as all you need is water. You can change a colour’s value by adding more water or using less.”  

Why might this be a useful medium for novices and experts alike?

“For artists/students starting out using watercolour as their medium it is relatively less expensive.  You don’t need an easel, solvents, panels or stretched canvas. If you like to travel and paint it is the perfect medium.  Your supplies are so light and take up little volume. Tom Thomson painted from his canoe using watercolours.”

Donna Wilson (Co-Chair), Margaret Roseman (Director/Founder) and Susan Payne (President) in Twist Gallery for the Opening Reception

What makes watercolour special to you in comparison to other artistic expressions?

“Watercolour is known for its inherent delicacy and elusiveness. The beauty of its quality makes it appear magical. It can’t be totally controlled and manipulated. It is all about finding the balance between control and letting go. It is a spontaneous medium that makes it fascinating and alluring. I love the transparency of watercolour. Unlike oils, for example, watercolours glow from within. Light bounces off the watercolour paper and reflects back up through the pigment. If you were to glaze over a dried yellow layer with a glaze of blue the resultant layer would be green. You can get beautiful, rich colours using glazing or wet-in-wet techniques.”

What does Aquavision mean to you?

“I can not speak for the founders of the Toronto Watercolour Society but I can say for me ‘Aqua’ means water and the combined word ‘Vision’ means using watercolour to express my vision.”

Do you have any pieces in this show that we can share?

“Unfortunately, for the TWS 35th Anniversary Fall Juried Show at the Twist Gallery, I was not able to submit any images due to the timing of the show. I have thoroughly enjoyed, as the TWS Show Co-Chair, being involved in setting it up with the help of Stella, TWS Show Co-Chair and our TWS volunteers. The Twist Gallery space is breathtaking.”

Meet Gloria Blatt!

What inspires your art?

My inspirations come from nature and the natural beauty around us. I’ve always been able to view the world through a lens of colour, shapes, and dimensions, and have the ability to translate this into artistic expression.

“Wings” acrylic on birch (30” x 40”) $1,500

Can you talk about your process? What tools do you use to create?

I begin my creations by imagining abstract renditions of images in my mind that have been formed through my life experiences. At times I even surprise myself when the process seems to take on a life of its own. I take advantage of a variety sources of mediums and continually experiment with innovative techniques. Some of my work is done with conventional paint and brush, and at other times they can involve my fingers and other non-conventional tools.   

Source: www.gloriablatt.com

When did you first discover art? Are you self-taught or did you go to school for it?

For as long as I remember, I have been fascinated by artistic expression. I attended formal study both at York University in the Fine Arts program, and Ontario College of Art and Design. York University provided me with a deep appreciation of art history, while OCAD allowed me the freedom to express myself in an incredibly innovative, fearless manner.

What is your personal goal as an artist?

My goal as an artist is first and foremost to be proud of my creations and share my passion for the craft with as many people as possible. It gives me incredible satisfaction when others are able to derive pleasure from my creations and discover their own life-story in my work.  

“Freeze” acrylic, oil, ink, enamel on birch, wood float frame (30”x 30”) $1,300

How do you title your artworks? 

The process of naming my art is often a reflexive response to the creation. It is always spontaneous and natural as my art always conveys a strong personal message.

Do you have a particular piece that has a special connection to you?

Of all of my paintings, the one that is closest to my heart is one inspired by my children, my greatest creations.

“Dragon” acrylic, ink, oil on birch, wood float frame, (30”x 30”) $1,300

Who are some of your favourite artists?

Having studied art history and having visited many world-famous galleries, I am awe struck and overwhelmed by the works of Picasso, Monet, Modigliani, Chagall, and Miro (although my list could go on).  

What is it like to be an artist in today’s world?

Being an artist is both maddening and transformative, as I serve as my harshest critic.  At the same time, the creative process allows me to escape into a state of inner peace and tranquility.

“Dusty Rose” acrylic on stretched canvas, (42.5”x 51”) $2,500

What are you passionate about?

In today’s troubled world, being an artist affords me the ability to remain optimistic and inspired.

What does “Energy” mean to you?

Energy is the life force that I derive from my family and friends, and that ultimately manifests in my artistic expression in the form of colour and movement.

Energy at Twist

Don’t miss this one Toronto! Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. 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.

 And since you’re here, check out the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.

 To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.

 Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!

Meet Jessica Robbins!

What inspires your art?

In a word: colour. I know that sounds simplistic, but I thrive on bright and bold colours. I love colour and look for it everywhere! I take photos of anything that catches my eye, whether it's traveling or simply day-to-day life, and get a lot of ideas for colour palettes from life. My process can also be very collaborative. The majority of the pieces I have created have been special requests. While working with a patron may seem to allow for less freedom, it is so flattering to be asked (and trusted) to paint something so personal for someone. It pushes me out of my comfort zone and produced some of my best work.

“Magnificent Mile” acrylic on canvas (20”x 20”) $300

Can you talk about your process? What tools do you use to create?

I work with acrylics primarily because they allow for the bright, bold colour palettes with which I love to work. While mostly brush work, I like to experiment with different tools and techniques to add variety to my work. Especially when working on abstract pieces, I use palette knives to layer paint in different ways and then add washes of colour to help unify everything on the canvas. Almost no brushes are used in the making of the abstract pieces in the show!

“Jaxx” acrylic on canvas, courtesy off Jessica Robbins.

When did you first discover art? Are you self-taught or did you go to school for it?

I always loved art class in school. I had such a passion I knew I wanted to make it my life. I studied Fine Art (and Law) at the University of Guelph and was able to experiment with so many different mediums. In school I worked mostly in sculpture, wood working, metal works, plaster mold making, I love using my hands. Painting came a bit later, but it is where I found myself. Friends started asking for small pieces (my first few requests were dog portraits) and over the past six years I have been able to work at my own pace and really refine my style. I am also a high school art teacher and am so lucky to be able to share my passion with my students and be surrounded by something I love every day!

Jessica Robbins

What is your personal goal as an artist?

At the beginning of 2019, my goal was to work towards an exhibition in a public space. Getting the show at Twist was a huge accomplishment for me. Moving forward, I would love to continue to work towards more shows in the GTA and creating pieces for a solo exhibition. One of my pieces for "Energy" is a streetscape of Kensington Market and I would like to work towards a series of similar pieces inspired by different neighbourhoods around the city. Toronto has such a rich diversity of architecture which lends itself very generously to artwork.

“Kensington” acrylic on canvas (24”x 48”) $850

Do you have a particular piece that has a special connection to you?

I loved working on Kensington. The colours, the inherent culture, the vibrancy - everything about the neighbourhood shouts "Energy". I really wanted to showcase this in my painting and am happy with the result. My artistic collection of work varies from portraits to abstract pieces, but this was the painting that tied everything together. I used this piece as the focal point for my show as I am most proud of it.

Energy at Twist

Don’t miss out on this exhibition Queen West! Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. 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.

And since you’re here, why not browse the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.

To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.

Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!

Meet Sandra Di Leo!

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” — Picasso

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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.

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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.

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“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.” 

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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.

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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/

Meet Tanmay Upadhyaya!

Who is Tanmay Upadhyaya?

Source: @tanmay.art

“I'm a Toronto based marketer, passionately in love with colours. My venture into the joys of merging colours with canvas only began very recently. I look forward to seeing where this new voice for expression will lead. I enjoy creating abstract art - using acrylics primarily - and try to evoke a sense of beauty and inspiration through the interactions between colours as they find their place on the canvas. I endeavour to create pieces that produce the same passion for colours in others that I have always felt.”

What are you passionate about?

“54 Shades of Happiness”, acrylic on canvas (32 x 48”), $600

“I LOVE LOVE LOVE colours. They make me happy, energize me and inspire me. My lifelong love for colours started quite early in my childhood. I grew up in a culture that is very colour-centric and that affected my sensibilities in the most positive way. My work on display at Twist Gallery screams COLOUR. I have employed bold, vibrant colours in a congrous manner, laid on the canvas using non-traditional painting tools. All my pieces also explore order in chaos. There is a sense of controlled randomness.”

What does ‘Energy’ mean to you?

“And a Very Good Evening to You Too Mr. Rothko”, acrylic on canvas (32 x 48”), $600

“Energy, to me, is the invigorating power of colours. Colours have immense transformative powers and are capable of affecting our moods and general well being. I hope that my work is able to channel this energy and help people feel the joy.”

Energy at Twist

Don’t miss this fantastic exhibition! Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. 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.

And since you’re here, why not browse the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.

To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.

Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!

Meet Courtney Senior!

Meet Courtney Senior!

Source: Courtneyseniorart.com

A Bit About Me

“I am a self-taught abstract artist located in Toronto, Canada. 

“Ever since I was little I would immerse myself in creative activities - from colouring and drawing to painting and writing. Despite my passion for the arts, as I got older it took a backseat to sports. 

“While I was in university, I experienced several years of severe anxiety, which led me back to art. It seemed to be the only thing that would ease my angst and bring my mind back to serenity. 

“As my anxiety subsided and as I pursued my career in marketing, painting was pushed to the sidelines again; that is until my late-20’s when I lost my father in a sudden accident and went through very difficult life changes. From that moment on, I spent every free minute I had painting. I used it as an opportunity to put all of the emotions I couldn't express verbally into a form that helped my grieve and ultimately helped me heal. 

“I created so many pieces of artwork that my condo quickly became a studio. At first, selling my work did not seem like an option. I didn't know where to start, it seemed like a scary road of trying to figure out where to sell, how to market myself, pricing, shipping, packaging etc. 

“Whatever Comes Next” acrylic on canvas (48”x 36”) $1,475

“And I wasn't in it for the money. I loved creating and loved sharing it with people. So, I thought why not just give it away? But as a marketer, I knew I should come up with something that made more of an impact, had some longevity could be tracked. 

“I initiated a social project called #ArtandFound. I would neatly package up my work with a note on the outside that read: Hello, I'm an original abstract painting in need of a loving home. FREE ART #ArtandFound.

“I would also leave a note on the inside saying who I was, what the painting was about and contact information for anyone who wanted to follow up with me. I would leave them around different neighbourhoods in the city and hope that someone would pick them up. The response was so incredible that eventually it gave me the confidence to open an Etsy shop. 

“The first day I posted my work, someone purchased a painting! I was overwhelmed with excitement and I haven't looked back since. That was 5 years ago and I still spend every spare minute I have painting and building my business.”

• Courtney Senior

“Where the Magic Happens” acrylic on canvas (48”x 48”) $2,000

“What seems like serendipitous movement is actually a reflection of life – it’s the journey of making bold decisions, connecting with your inner renegade and embracing the highs and the lows and everything in between.”

Courtney

“Forget About the Pretty Things”

“This collection looks beyond first sight. It’s not about the beautiful colours or about matching trendy decor. It’s my introspection of life. Through the lens of synesthesia, I use movement to capture experiences, relationships and moments no matter how profound or mundane. This is my interpretation of life and trying to find beauty, meaning and mindfulness in both the simplicities and complexities of daily life.

“Cosmic Horizon – 03” acrylic on canvas (36”x 48”) $1,475

Thoughts on Energy?

“Energy is the essence of all of my work. The energy I embody from daily experiences, musings, encounters etc. is exactly what I am trying to convey through movement on canvas, no matter what the source.”

• Courtney Senior

Energy at Twist

Don’t miss this wonderful exhibition!

Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. 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.

And since you’re here, why not browse the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.

To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.

Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!

Meet Elizabeth "Ela" Szymczak!

Our exhibit, Energy, has a special place in Ela’s heart, quite literally. She started painting late last year after suffering a heart attack at 48 years old. This event jolted her onto a new life trajectory that includes a special focus on art. 

Ela’s Heart

She bravely took fear from this traumatic experience and used it to facilitate a new love and appreciation for life. For her, energy translates to life. While inspiration sometimes comes to her in dreams, her paintings always exude pure, raw emotion. 

“Catharsis” acrylic on canvas (30”x 40”) $750

While she hates talking about herself, her art does the speaking for her. Her piece, “Catharsis” illustrates a purge from repressed emotions and the subsequent relief created through this expression. The deep yet bright red oscillating lines seem to call to the lines created on a heart rate monitor. This new heartbeat is painted over the dark background, representing the new life created out of trauma. The thick textures create dimension, making the piece come to life, much like she did. It hangs on the wall with her other works seemingly radiating from it and creates a storyboard on the gallery wall for her experiences.

“Energy to me is life. All my paintings are driven by pure emotion. Some have come to me in dreams. I really don’t know how else to explain it. It’s raw emotion.”

- Elizabeth “Ela” Szymczak

Energy at Twist

Don’t miss this rest of this amazing collection! Be sure to visit Twist at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest exhibits. 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.

And since you’re here, why not browse the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.

To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.

Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!

Meet Elena Dinissuk!

Elena Dinissuk is a painter who works out of her home studio in Mississauga, ON. Elena has always felt like an artistic soul; she took to painting later in life, and is constantly working on perfecting her technique. Elena’s main medium is acrylic. She likes acrylic due to its vibrancy and versatility. She started by painting landscapes inspired by Ontario’s outdoors, and has since branched out to abstract works. This has taken her to a new direction. 

“Sunlight Through a Foggy Forest” acrylic on wood, (12”x 16”) $220

Elena uses acrylic gels and modeling paste to add opaque and transparent layers, as well as texture, to her work. Her style is distinct and memorable, with paintings containing movement, flow and positive energy. Elena enjoys painting by palette knife (pictured below), and teaches her technique to art schools when invited.

A palette knife (source: Pexels)

Elena is proud to say that she’s been participating in art shows and exhibits since 2017. Both her landscapes and abstract works have been featured in juried exhibitions. Elena has twice participated in the prestigious Paint Ontario, at the Lambton Heritage Museum. She later went on to be included in the Impact 2018 Juried Show and Overzealous 2018, both at Neilson Park Creative Centre in Etobicoke. Elena has also been included in group gallery shows in Propeller Gallery, and Artusiasm Gallery. She has also participated in art shows in Mississauga, and in Riverdale Artwalk 2019.

Elena with her work. You can follow her @lenadv_art and #lenadv_art

Elena strives to promote joy and peace through her work, while making people think and feel.

Dinissuk’s latest collection at Twist!

It highlights air, water, and earth elemental energy! The earth energy is warm and grounding, the water energy is rejuvenating, and the air energy is clean and fresh. 

“My paintings are inspired by landscapes. Sometimes I incorporate all three of these elements, sometimes I concentrate on only one.”

-Elena Dinissuk

Energy at Twist

Don’t miss this fantastic exhibition! Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. 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.

And since you’re here, why not browse the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.

To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.

Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!

3 Reasons to Add Artwork to Your Work Space / Office

By Twist Gallery

Art can certainly energize a room in your home, add a touch of ambience to your next cocktail party and even be the perfect gift to a dear friend. But what about art and your workspace? Sometimes we focus so much on the “work” of work, that we forget we spend loads of time in these settings. A work space should be considered a second living space. And whether it be your home office, your company’s break-room or just a personal cubicle; art can impact your workspace for the better. 

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Below are Twist Gallery’s 3 reasons to add art to your office. Enjoy!

3 REASONS TO ADD ART TO YOUR WORK SPACE / OFFICE

🖼 📊 Art Inspires.

Art has the power to open your mind and affect your thoughts. Remember the last time you saw an inspirational post on Instagram? Remember how the image made you see things more clearly? Or maybe it gave you the opportunity to consider a situation from an alternative perspective? Contemplating art and reflecting on a vibrant or powerful piece can lead to innovation at work. For example, consider The Northside Series limited edition collection by Patrick Skals below.

"Paint the Town Red" mixed media on canvas (48"x 60") $1,900

His work evokes chaos, jubilation, intense passion and symbiotic conflict. The mixed media calls attention to Toronto’s mixed landscapes and neighbourhoods, while the entire canvas promotes unity and a sense of place. The piece reflects city history in the eyes of the artist. Imagine putting this in one of your company’s group-work settings. Just think of all the ideas people could envision when staring at this overwhelming piece.

🖼📉 Art can reflect your company’s brand and character. 

Modern consumers are learning about companies, including yours, more than ever. People really like getting to know their favourite brands. The brands’ uniqueness is probably what attracted consumers in the first place. So why not let your freak flag fly with a funky and vibrant piece? Also, work culture is changing and evolving to allow for more self-expression at the office. Maybe a Velvet Elvis is the perfect way to tell you co-workers or customers that you love rock and roll?! Or better yet, take a look at the work of Jessica Robbins.

"Bowie" acrylic on canvas (12"x 24") $250

Ziggy Stardust is iconic and sensational. This work tells a very specific story that speaks to extraterrestrials, glam rock and social taboo. TO BE VIEWED WITH MAXIMUM VOLUME. 😉

🖼📈 Art affects the atmosphere of a space.

Why is it that spas display artwork of calm and serene settings? Because these kinds of works can affect the atmosphere of a room. Art and imagery can evoke a spectrum of feelings. It can invigorate and stimulate just as well as it can relax and ease. Is your workspace too chaotic? Consider something tranquil and still. And if energy is what you need, consider something with colour! Look at the colour-FULL work of Tanmay Upadhyaya.

"A New York Whiteout" acrylic on canvas (24"x 32") $300

Dreary work spaces don’t stand a chance against this vibrant and joyous work. 

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Did we miss any other benefits of art? Have you tried this? We’d love to hear from anyone who has an art-in-the-office success story!

By the way, how’s your workspace looking? Check out our Artist Showcase CLICK HERE.

There’s always something new at Twist Gallery. To see what’s Upcoming CLICK HERE.

Art is just so good for ya! So keep us in your life and at your workspace by following us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!