ArtBeat

In this episode of ArtBeat, Katie engages with Holly Stapleton, an illustrator and painter rooted in Toronto. Holly's narrative unfolds from the innocent artistry of an IKEA playplace to the vibrant streets of Montreal, where she discovered a community that fostered her evolution. Her work, suffused with gouache textures and the ethereal glow of golden-hour light, captures moments of selfhood, the complexities of relationships, and the bittersweet pangs of nostalgia. In editorial and commercial realms, she wields her brush with self-taught freedom, translating her instincts into a visual language that speaks to the human condition. Holly's life oscillates between the relentless tempo of New York and the reflective cadence of Toronto, each city imparting its influence on her art. She explores the trials of rendering mental images onto canvas, the balance between editorial constraints and personal voice. Her portfolio, a testament to her talent, features collaborations with The New Yorker, Airbnb, Warby Parker, Google, ELLE, Architectural Digest, Netflix, The New York Times, Rolex, and more. As she looks forward, Holly envisions a return to personal projects, a deeper exploration of oil painting, and a closer connection with the Toronto art scene.  Holly’s work can be found at Abbozzo Gallery in Toronto, on her website, and Instagram. Don’t forget to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and rate us on your favourite platforms.

In a landscape often marked by the banal and the predictable, Dominique Sirois emerges as a voice of exquisite dissonance. Dominique speaks of her early days, sketching in the quiet corners of her youth, and the surrealist currents that swept her into the realm of oil and canvas. Her first piece—a woman entwined with a tree, a dreamscape that entranced the surreal into her young consciousness—marks the beginning of her journey. We explore the mental cartographies she constructs in her installations, where space becomes poetry and objects transform into ideologies. Her work embodies the alchemy of art, transforming ceramics and sculpture into vessels of spirituality and a critique of capitalism. Dominique's quest to channel the intangible energies that vibrate just beneath the surface of our material world is a central theme in her creations. Dominique's work can be experienced in-person at Patel Brown. To explore more, visit DominiqueSirois.net or Instagram. Mark your calendars for her solo exhibition at l'Écart, Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, in February 2026. Don’t forget to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and rate us on your favourite platforms.

Today, we trace the improbable journey of Vlad Kanic. From the Adriatic shores to the vibrant pulse of Toronto, Vlad's journey is marked by tenacity and ingenuity. In the enforced stillness of the pandemic, he found inspiration in the most unassuming of places – his refrigerator. Seaweed salad, a favourite staple, became the catalyst for his living sculptures that breathe, capture carbon, and produce oxygen. Vlad’s apartment became a laboratory of innovation, where failure was not an endpoint but a mentor, guiding each step toward brilliance. Recognized with the Enbridge Sustainability Award, Vlad's vision defies the boundaries of traditional art. He is set to present this vision at the Collision conference in June 2024, North America's largest tech gathering, offering his work as a beacon of hope in the ongoing climate crisis. Follow Vlad's ongoing journey on Instagram and explore his creations at VladmirKanic.com. Find Vlad's work at Abbozzo Gallery in Toronto. Don’t forget to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and rate us on your favourite platforms.

In this episode of ArtBeat, we explore the multifaceted journey of Briony Douglas, an artist whose story is a tapestry of strength and creativity. From childhood memories of crafting stop-motion animations with her father to navigating disparate jobs—factories, marketing, and more—Briony’s route to professional artistry was anything but direct. An adverse work environment led her to resign and fully embrace her artistic ambitions, soon landing her photography on magazine covers. A serendipitous request to build a giant elephant sculpture for a charity event revealed another dimension of her creativity, one that involved transforming discarded materials into striking art. This reclamation theme mirrors her personal experiences, infusing her work with deep emotional ties. The true reward lies in the public’s reaction, especially the joy of children, validating her countless hours of dedication. In these moments, Briony finds not just success, but a sense of connection and purpose. Find Briony on Instagram and explore her portfolio at BrionyDouglas.com. Join us by subscribing, rating, and following ArtBeat on Instagram for a glimpse behind the scenes, where Canadian art comes to life and stories unfold.

Alex Garant's work is a symphony of surreal, overlapping visions layered over traditional portraits. In this episode, Alex contemplates the relentless chase for a style now unmistakably hers, and the weight of burnout that shadows the pursuit. She recounts the defining moment after her heart attack in 2012—a juncture that demanded a steadfast dedication to her art, charging her work with an intensity both stark and liberating. Her reflections urge us to strip away the facades of identity, revealing the raw interplay between the feverish drive of creativity and the elusive quest for personal peace. Alex narrates the evolution of her "Queen of Double Eyes" style, where traditional portraiture collides with graphic elements, creating a hypnotic dance of perception and reality. Discover more of Alex’s mind-bending creations and purchase her artworks at AlexGarant.com. Follow her journey on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Exclusively for ArtBeat listeners: Enjoy 20% off your purchase at Trekell Art Supplies with code ‘artbeat20’. Plus, get free shipping on orders over $124.99 and receive a complimentary brush with every order. Use the code before June 20th, 2024, to seize this offer. Restrictions apply. Explore more at Trekell.com. Subscribe to ArtBeat on your favourite podcast platform, leave a review, and share with fellow art lovers. Stay connected on Instagram for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Today, on the Season One finale of ArtBeat, we speak with the creative Charlotte Blake, a fibre artist whose sculptural weaving and innovative use of materials have captivated the art community. Charlotte takes us through her journey from studying drawing and painting at OCADU to discovering her love for tapestry and loom weaving. Discover how a request to create a tapestry sparked her interest in fibre art, leading her to experiment with different techniques and materials. Charlotte reflects on how her background in drawing and painting influences her current work and how an eight-week course with a local artist honed her weaving skills. Charlotte uncovers the surprising aspects of loom weaving, the sculptural opportunities it provides, and her evolving material experimentation. She highlights the significance of labour in her pieces, the worth of using modest materials, and the impact of her Scottish heritage on her choice of patterns and colours. Find Charlotte's pieces at Abbozzo Gallery in Toronto and follow her on Instagram. Tune in for this insightful conversation and explore the art that shapes our world. Remember to subscribe to ArtBeat on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcast platform and rate us to help more listeners discover Canada's incredible talent.

In our latest episode, Hayley Axelrad artfully dismantles the polished veneer of suburban life, where the familiar facades of perfection meet the perceptive brush of introspection. We explore how her passion for psychology influences her portrayal of human nature in art, transforming genteel scenes into rich examinations of internal landscapes. Hayley shares her journey from academic art studies to embracing a colourful, expressive palette that challenges the quiet desolation often masked by social smiles. This episode probes how societal expectations shaped her artistic expression, navigating from realism to a style that captures the unspoken complexities of human interactions. Hayley discusses her creative process and how personal history influences her work, revealing the unseen beneath the polished exteriors. For a closer look at Hayley's art, visit her website, follow her on Instagram, or explore her pieces at Tacit Collective. Tune in, subscribe, and rate our podcast to stay updated with unique perspectives and stories from the Canadian art world. Your engagement helps us bring more fascinating conversations like this one to you!

Join us for a compelling conversation with Stephanie Hanes, a ceramic artist and assistant professor at the New York College of Ceramics at Alfred University. In this episode, Stephanie shares their journey from Alberta to New York, revealing how different environments have shaped their approach to art and teaching. Through their work, Stephanie challenges societal norms using the female body as a site of resistance, employing elements of the grotesque and uncanny to explore themes of identity, power, and femininity. Stephanie discusses their creative process, the impact of their upbringing during Alberta’s oil boom, and how these experiences fostered a deep commitment to feminism and influenced their artistic style. They also reflect on the nuances of living and working in New York versus Toronto, providing insight into the distinct art scenes and the challenges and opportunities each offers. Discover Stephanie’s world of thought-provoking ceramics that blend myth with reality, pushing the boundaries of traditional art. For more on their work and upcoming projects, follow Stephanie on Instagram and visit their website. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe for more fascinating stories and insights from artists like Stephanie. Share this episode with a friend who loves exploring the deeper meanings behind contemporary art, and leave us a review to help spread the word about ArtBeat!

Today on ArtBeat, we uncover the creative process of Richard York, an expert in woodcut printmaking. In this episode, Richard discusses his artistic progression from childhood cartoons to revolutionizing woodcut art. He highlights his latest show, "The West Wind," a thought experiment that imagines Group of Seven artist Tom Thomson as a woodcut artist. Richard talks about blending age-old woodcut techniques with the dynamic qualities of painting, and how instinct plays a crucial role in determining when a print is complete.  He also examines themes of disconnection from nature in his work, illustrated by the 'Savannah box' motif, and explores how viewers interpret personal and historical narratives through art. Reflecting on the diverse Canadian art landscape and its historical roots, Richard shares his insights on the elusive path to recognition in the art world. To learn more about Richard York's artwork and upcoming exhibitions, visit Instagram or Mira Godard Gallery. Subscribe for more captivating conversations with the trailblazers of the Canadian art community.

On this episode of ArtBeat, we enter the fascinating world of Huy Lam, an artist renowned for transforming his expertise in photography into innovative sculptural forms. Huy explains how his photographic background enriches his sculptures, allowing him to create visual narratives that bridge cultural divides. Throughout the episode, Huy discusses his methodical yet fluid approach to art, prioritizing exploring new methods and materials over adhering to a fixed message. He sheds light on the welcome synergy between himself and curators, which helps tailor his artistic vision while staying attuned to the commercial aspects of the art world. Huy also takes us through the influences that have shaped his artistic voice, from his early experiences to his cultural heritage, and how these elements compel him to challenge artistic norms. He candidly discusses the broader obstacles faced by artists in Canada, highlighting the need for greater recognition and valuation of Canadian art on the international stage. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how Huy Lam merges diverse artistic disciplines to challenge and redefine the boundaries of traditional sculpture. Explore Huy Lam’s work on Instagram, his website, or through United Contemporary. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a rating to help us share more stories like Huy's with a wider audience. Your support makes all the difference!

Venture into the evocative realm of Morgan Booth, a painter whose skill in harnessing a limited palette brings out intense emotional landscapes and compelling narratives. Morgan reflects on her early inspirations, including Picasso's works, and her educational journey at an art-centric high school, which helped forge her unique artistic identity. She discusses the transformative influence of exhibiting in top-tier galleries, her dedication to refining her techniques, and finding the balance between her artistic pursuits and personal contentment. In this conversation, Morgan confronts the obstacles imposed by her chronic illness, detailing how it molds her creative process and bolsters her resilience. She discusses the healing power of her art, the pivotal role of mentorship in her life, and her efforts to stay authentic amidst the digital landscape. This episode also highlights Morgan’s perspective of the Canadian art scene and her excitement for upcoming exhibitions. Tune in to see how Morgan Booth transforms her personal adversities into stunning works of art. Discover Morgan's artworks across various platforms: ⁠Instagram⁠ Website ⁠Modern Eden Gallery⁠ WOW x WOW⁠ Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your preferred platform to support us in bringing more inspiring stories like Morgan's to you. We value your support!

Venture into Emily Valentine's realm, an artist whose passion for art has shaped her path from early sketches to full-time dedication. Emily opens up about the joys and challenges of her craft, emphasizing the crucial role of mindset and belief in one’s abilities. She navigates the complex balance between preserving artistic authenticity and achieving financial security, expressing enthusiasm for her future endeavors in hyperrealism. Emily walks us through the nuanced aspects of her work, from arranging elaborate still-life scenes to mastering the skill of depicting reflections. She highlights the pivotal role of social media in extending her reach and her dedicated participation in enhancing the Canadian art scene. For a closer look at Emily’s stunning hyperrealistic artwork and to stay updated on her latest projects, follow her on Instagram, TikTok, or visit www.valentinefinearts.com. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform to catch all our episodes. Enjoyed today's content? We would love a five-star review!

In an engaging ArtBeat episode, Amelia Hadouchi shares her evolution from an interior design student to a renowned artist, notably incorporating art into functional spaces. A pivotal road trip to Miami broadened her horizons, leading to her participation in Art Basel. She draws inspiration from nature and emphasizes intuition and discipline in her creative process. Amelia also discusses her venture into public mural art, highlighting its community impact and her exploration of North African heritage through her Origins series. Her commitment extends to art-based philanthropy, brand collaborations, and navigating the digital art space. She touches on the importance of diversity and the challenges of recognition in Montreal's art scene. Discover more of Amelia's work: Website Instagram TikTok Gallery Emergeast Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your chosen platform to explore Amelia's world, where art inspires and unites communities.

Join us for a captivating exploration with Chloe Chlumecky, where we spotlight her journey as a figurative oil painter. Chloe shares how the nuances of daily existence inspire her artwork, emphasizing the power of capturing the essence of the present in her studio endeavors. Reflecting on her transformative time in France and her evolution from academia to a professional career, Chloe examines the milestones that have shaped her artistic path. She discusses her meticulous oil painting process, from theme selection to recognizing a painting's completion. Focusing on the significance of camaraderie within the Canadian art sphere, Chloe envisions expanding her creative scope and embarking on more ambitious projects. She eagerly anticipates future endeavors, including exhibitions and residency pursuits, aiming to push her creative limits. Discover more of Chloe’s work: Website Instagram TikTok Don’t forget to subscribe to ArtBeat on your preferred podcast platform for episodes that illuminate the creative journeys of artists like Chloe, showcasing how art fosters profound connections and transformation.

Today’s episode with Katie Butler on ArtBeat is where art meets the heart's narratives. In this engaging session, Katie opens up about the intricate dance of symbols and shadows in her creations, turning the canvas into a realm where each brushstroke narrates a story steeped in emotion and personal experience. Discover the unique blend of inspiration she draws from her life, transforming these influences into compelling portraits and scenes that speak volumes. Katie's conversation extends beyond her artwork, touching upon the broader themes of the Canadian art landscape, her perspectives on authenticity, and the journey of an artist's evolution from passion to profession. She also peeks into future endeavors and showcases where her art takes center stage. Prepare to be moved by Katie's insightful dialogue on ArtBeat, as she delves into the essence of creating art that connects, confronts, and comforts. Listen to explore the depth behind her visuals and the stories they hold within. Find more of Katie Butler’s work: Website Instagram Don't let the journey end here; follow us on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to ensure you never miss an episode.

In our latest ArtBeat episode, join us as we discuss with Daniella Williams, a contemporary figurative painter whose art touches on the delicate dance between voyeurism, intimacy, and personal spaces. Daniella shares how her keen awareness of her environment influences her artistic narrative, and she provides insight into her process of painting from photographs, where emotions and perception play pivotal roles. Daniella reflects on the evolving representation of female artists in the art scene, the significance of figurative painting, and her contributions to the Canadian art landscape, highlighting Toronto's art community resurgence. She also talks about her pursuit of creative freedom, exploring new themes and techniques, and the importance of self-acceptance in her artistic journey. Hear Daniella discuss her ambitions, future plans, and her perspective on the Canadian and global art scenes. Find Daniella Williams’s work: Website Instagram Subscribe to ArtBeat on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to listen to Daniella's inspiring story and explore the insights and stories of artists shaping our understanding of art and life.

In this profound episode of ArtBeat, Victoria Sequeira invites us into her world, a realm where the influence of women and the complexities of sexuality and duality are explored with openness and vulnerability. With a focus on self-love and acceptance, Victoria shares how she channels intangible feelings into captivating visual forms, navigating the delicate balance between public perception and personal expression. As she discusses her upcoming exhibitions in Brooklyn and Calgary, Victoria reflects on the transformative experiences that have shaped her, celebrating womanhood in all its facets. Her insights into the Canadian art scene and her desire to make art that resonates on a personal level with viewers underscore her commitment to making a difference. Victoria's episode is a call to all who seek to understand the depth of artistic expression and its ability to convey the most profound aspects of the human experience.  Discover more about Victoria Sequeira's transformative art: ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Very Very Shop⁠ Join us on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform to dive into Victoria's artistic journey. Subscribe to ArtBeat to never miss an episode that celebrates the stories and insights of artists like Victoria, who challenge, inspire, and transform our perception of art and life.

Join us as we journey through Rah Eleh's imaginative realm, where art serves as a bridge between past, present, and speculative futures, and where each piece invites viewers to reconsider the narratives that shape our world. In this ArtBeat episode, we delve into Rah Eleh's world, an artist intertwining identity, culture, and futuristic concepts through video, digital, and performance art. Rah, a PhD candidate in Vienna, crafts a distinct narrative using parody and allegory to question and redefine notions of identity. Globally recognized, from the Venice Biennale to Oslo's National Museum, Rah's work has earned her accolades and residencies, affirming her influence in contemporary art. Her art, enriched by queer and rave cultures and her Iranian roots, acts as a vibrant platform for cultural dialogue and self-discovery. Rah discusses her VR residency in New York, collaborations with Waack dancers, and "Xenofuturism," her project exploring ethnic futurism's role in art. She addresses the Canadian art scene's dynamics, her effort to subtly integrate political messages, and her enthusiasm for forthcoming endeavors, including a Getty research trip and a Swiss group exhibition. Discover Rah Eleh's Work: Website Instagram V-Tape Studio 66 Explore Rah Eleh's visionary artistry, where each creation is a portal to dialogue, challenging conventional narratives and envisioning speculative futures.

Explore the artistic journey of Toronto-based artist Matthew Schofield on ArtBeat. Schofield, with a career rich in national and international exhibitions, transitions from architecture to celebrated fine arts, sharing his unique process of bringing snapshots to life through painting. He delves into creative problem-solving, the evolution of his style, and his take on the Canadian art scene. Matthew's work, recognized on platforms like Art Toronto and in the BP Portrait Award, showcases his skill in narrative painting, transforming everyday moments into profound art. His approach provides a fresh perspective on authenticity and the power of art to capture life's fleeting moments. See more of Matthew Schofield's work: Website Galleries: Rice Polak, Metivier, ZIA Instagram Stay tuned to ArtBeat on Spotify or your preferred podcast platform for more captivating stories from the Canadian art scene.

Join us as we speak with Emily Pope, a Toronto painter, on her personal and artistic journey. Emily shares insights into her transition from design to full-time painting, and how art serves as her medium for introspection and connection. She reflects on perfectionism, her informal art education, and navigating the Canadian art scene. Discover how Emily's use of symbolism in her work opens a dialogue on femininity and life's fragility. Discover more about Emily Pope's work: Website Instagram Artsy Stay tuned to ArtBeat on Spotify or your preferred podcast platform for more captivating stories from the Canadian art scene.