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This month, we're delighted to introduce you to Kate Stavniichuk – an artist born in Ukraine, now calling Canada her home. Kate's artistic journey ignited at a young age, fueled by her passion for art. Despite facing resource constraints, she embarked on a self-taught journey, crafting captivating works that have garnered global recognition. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?  I am a professional artist originally born in a small town in Ukraine, residing and working in Canada now. I discovered an interest and natural ability to create art at a young age but lacked the resources for formal lessons and art supplies. Starting as a self-taught artist, I honed and developed my skills to the point where my works started to gain international acclaim and demand from art collectors around the world. At the age of 12, I began showing in galleries and participating in international contests, winning numerous awards and prizes. When I was 21, I ventured from my homeland in Ukraine and started to work professionally as an artist throughout the United States and Europe. By 24 I had my first solo exhibition “Wild Passion”. When did you start creating artworks?  I began creating art at a very young age, around 5-6 years old. It was a challenging time for my family back then as my parents couldn't afford many toys. So, I turned to my imagination, crafting stories on sheets of paper and sketching people and animals as substitutes for dolls. This passion continued to grow with each passing year. By the time I reached around 12 years old, I began participating in local exhibitions, sharing my art with more people. While I primarily used graphite and colored pencils, I also experimented with watercolors and gouache paints. Unfortunately, I still couldn't afford oil paints or brushes to create the art I envisioned. Formal art classes were also financially out of reach. Without internet access during that time, I was self-taught, learning from my mistakes and relying on intuition. Somehow, I developed a unique approach to using pencils and paints. I'll never forget the day I completed my first oil painting; my mom had tears in her eyes, unable to believe I had accomplished it, wondering how it was even possible because I had never received formal art education. How would you describe your art style? My artistic style primarily revolves around realism, occasionally leaning into hyperrealism while weaving in elements of surrealism. I love to create something that has a deep meaning. I like to ask the viewers who’re looking at my artworks, “What do you see with your mind’s eye?”. If you think about reality philosophically and scientifically, you realize that reality is an illusion that we live in. Everyone has their own reality, thus there are many answers to what reality should be like. As a spiritual individual, I enjoy exploring this concept through various artistic avenues. Can you share the story behind your favorite piece of art, and why is it significant to you? It’s really difficult to choose a favorite piece, but I'll tell you the story behind my recent oil painting, “Angel in the City”. The idea for this artwork first came to me while I was living in New York City in 2016. It was a somewhat lonely time, and I was facing personal challenges. I found solace in exploring the city on my own, observing the hustle and bustle of people, cars, and busy streets. It struck me how we often fail to notice the beauty and magic amidst the chaos of life, right before our eyes. It took me 6 years to fully develop the idea into an actual image that turned into art. I don’t want to tell you what the secret meaning behind this piece, I will let the viewers see themselves and then I’d be happy to discuss it with them.  Who are your biggest influences, and how have your life experiences shaped your creative process? I am very grateful for all my life experiences and struggles because they shaped me into who I am now as an artist, and they continue to change me in a certain way. Whether it's been personal or global events like the war in Ukraine, these experiences have emboldened my creative process. I don't limit myself with techniques or styles as much as I used to. Pain allowed me to venture into artistic visions I had been afraid to confront previously. When it comes to influences, I find it challenging to name specific individuals, as I've largely been self-driven throughout my life, pushing myself to persevere and never give up on my creative journey. How do you maintain motivation when working on challenging projects? I'll be honest; there are times when staying motivated or inspired is incredibly tough, especially during difficult periods. What keeps me going is the reminder that if I stop, I'll never discover what I could achieve. I focus on pushing through the challenges, even though it's not always easy. It's about maintaining resilience and staying committed to my goals, regardless of the obstacles. Reflecting back, what advice would you give to your younger self? I'd advise my younger self to be more flexible with people and less emotional. Because it was always hard to me to hear from people, especially close ones that I could never make it, or I needed to get a real job and forget about my passion. Now that I've learned to persevere and stay focused, I use them as fuel to keep pushing forward, sometimes embracing tasks I may not love. Because in the end, I get the results that I have always dreamed about.  Lastly, what brings you joy as an artist? When I know that my art pieces or art commissions changed someone’s life or just made someone happy brings me the greatest joy ever. Sometimes, one simple artwork can mean the world to a person and it’s an unbelievable feeling that you were a part of it.  Kate has carved out a unique path, extending an invitation to see the world through her eyes. If her story resonates with you or her art touches your soul, please don't hesitate to reach out. In our community, connecting with one another and sharing personal stories can be a profoundly meaningful experience.      To learn more about Kate, you can email her at info@katestavniichuk.com or visit her website www.katestavniichuk.com If you have any questions about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com

This month, we had the pleasure of inviting Tish Leupen, a seasoned quilter, to share her artistic journey with us.  Let's get started! How did you first get interested in quilting, and what inspired you to start this craft?  My name is Tish Leupen, and I would describe myself as a modern quilter. I have been sewing since I was 11 years old and studied Clothing and Textiles at University. I made my first quilt as a teen, before I knew anything about the traditional methods of quilting. I started quilting in a big way about 20 years ago by taking classes at a local shop. After creating traditional quilts for some time, I realized that assembling hundreds of identical pieces didn't fulfill my creative soul. About 10 years ago, I discovered modern quilting, which captivated me with its vibrant colours, clean lines, and originality. Attending QuiltCon has been a tremendous source of inspiration. Additionally, I'm an active member of two local quilting guilds.  Can you tell us about your favourite creation? What makes it special to you?  Usually my favourite quilt is the last one I finished. Making quilt tops is the fun and inspiring part for me, The actual layering and quilting the layers together is less interesting. As a result, I have a large inventory of tops that are not finished!  Are there any fabrics or materials that you prefer to use in your quilts? Why?  I have accumulated a large collection of fabrics over the years. I am drawn to bright colours and geometric designs, as well as unique quilting fabrics. What is the technique you find yourself using the most?  Hand appliqué is my go to technique for making quilts. I also use the traditional needle-turn technique, and love that I can take it with me anywhere.  Do you have any advice for beginners who are interested in learning how to quilt?  My advice for beginner quilters is to take classes and join the online community. The library is a great resource, and there are YouTube videos for everything you can imagine. Trying new techniques often leads to new directions for your craft.  Are there any fun facts that you want to share with the Cantoo City community?  In the 1990’s, I was a Decorative and Tole painting instructor. I painted mainly with acrylics, but also learned oil painting and watercolor. This background, along with my collection of fabrics, has led me to my other love, mixed media collage. I love that I can create art from anything that I have on hand.  I have had 2 art quilts accepted in a traveling exhibits in the US. Retirement has allowed me the freedom to do more. I am never bored!  In our community, Tish's story was just one thread, woven among countless others. Each individual, with their unique experiences and artistic journeys, played a role in enriching the fabric of community. Together, let's nurture a space where passion, inspiration, and possibility unite as one. Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of knitting? Follow Tish on Instagram @quiltish and let the your adventure begin! For any inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com

This month, we had the pleasure of inviting Tish Leupen, a seasoned quilter, to share her artistic journey with us.  Let's get started! How did you first get interested in quilting, and what inspired you to start this craft?  My name is Tish Leupen, and I would describe myself as a modern quilter. I have been sewing since I was 11 years old and studied Clothing and Textiles at University. I made my first quilt as a teen, before I knew anything about the traditional methods of quilting. I started quilting in a big way about 20 years ago by taking classes at a local shop. After creating traditional quilts for some time, I realized that assembling hundreds of identical pieces didn't fulfill my creative soul. About 10 years ago, I discovered modern quilting, which captivated me with its vibrant colours, clean lines, and originality. Attending QuiltCon has been a tremendous source of inspiration. Additionally, I'm an active member of two local quilting guilds.  Can you tell us about your favourite creation? What makes it special to you?  Usually my favourite quilt is the last one I finished. Making quilt tops is the fun and inspiring part for me, The actual layering and quilting the layers together is less interesting. As a result, I have a large inventory of tops that are not finished!  Are there any fabrics or materials that you prefer to use in your quilts? Why?  I have accumulated a large collection of fabrics over the years. I am drawn to bright colours and geometric designs, as well as unique quilting fabrics. What is the technique you find yourself using the most?  Hand appliqué is my go to technique for making quilts. I also use the traditional needle-turn technique, and love that I can take it with me anywhere.  Do you have any advice for beginners who are interested in learning how to quilt?  My advice for beginner quilters is to take classes and join the online community. The library is a great resource, and there are YouTube videos for everything you can imagine. Trying new techniques often leads to new directions for your craft.  Are there any fun facts that you want to share with the Cantoo City community?  In the 1990’s, I was a Decorative and Tole painting instructor. I painted mainly with acrylics, but also learned oil painting and watercolor. This background, along with my collection of fabrics, has led me to my other love, mixed media collage. I love that I can create art from anything that I have on hand.  I have had 2 art quilts accepted in a traveling exhibits in the US. Retirement has allowed me the freedom to do more. I am never bored!  In our community, Tish's story was just one thread, woven among countless others. Each individual, with their unique experiences and artistic journeys, played a role in enriching the fabric of community. Together, let's nurture a space where passion, inspiration, and possibility unite as one.     Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of knitting? Follow Tish on Instagram @quiltish and let the your adventure begin! For any inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com Share this post:

This month, we’re excited to delve into the artistic journey of Helen, a long-time supporter who has been with us from the early days. Helen's participation in our quizzes and her generous sharing of her creative work have made her collaboration invaluable. Today, we have the privilege of exploring Helen's story and gaining insights into her passion for art and her inspiring journey.  Can you tell us when your interest in art first began?  My passion for art started at a young age. I always had a knack for drawing, especially designing houses. It was in high school when I encountered an exceptional art teacher who recognized my talent and provided invaluable guidance.  Did your passion for art continue to grow after high school?  Absolutely. After high school, I took on the responsibility of designing stage sets and creating posters for the drama club. Despite my parents' doubts about art as a viable career, I continued to pursue my passion through drawing whenever I had the opportunity.  What were some of the challenges you faced along your artistic journey?  One of the main challenges I encountered was finding a balance between my artistic pursuits and starting a family. Juggling both responsibilities proved demanding, but I always found ways to express my creativity.  Could you share a specific artwork or moment that you are particularly proud of?  I take pride in two pieces I created depicting leopards. These drawings posed significant challenges, but I persevered and achieved results that I am immensely proud of. Additionally, I am thrilled about a piece I created that ended up being used as an album cover, showcasing my artwork to a wider audience.  How has art continued to be a part of your life since your recent retirement?  With my professional career behind me, I now have ample time to dedicate to my artistic pursuits. I spend a minimum of five hours each day in my studio, indulging in my passion for drawing and exploring my creativity.  Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for your artistic journey in the future?  I consider my house, filled with my own art, as a significant accomplishment. It brings me immense happiness. Moving forward, I simply want to continue finding joy in creating art and exploring new avenues of expression.  Helen's story inspires us to embrace our artistic pursuits wholeheartedly, knowing that we all have the power to enrich our lives with boundless happiness and fulfillment.     To learn more about Helen, you can reach her via Instagram @hjrose1. For any inquiries about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com. 

During a weekly trivia on Instagram, we discovered Ryan and his unique illustration style. Ryan's talent for storytelling through art instantly captivated us. Today, we are thrilled to feature Ryan as the first guest in our blog post. Can you tell us a bit about yourself? "I am first and foremost a thinker," says Ryan. "I write stories, poetry, and music, and I draw whenever words are not enough." Ryan's artistic repertoire spans various mediums, including oil paint, acrylic paint, watercolor, markers, ink, charcoal, pencils, pastels, digital art, and experimental techniques. Nature and animals inspire him, and he often finds solace strolling through the serene paths of the Etobicoke Creek. What inspires you to pursue art? Ryan recalls watching his mother draw characters as they enjoyed cartoons together, sparking his passion for illustration. His wide scope of interests, ranging from math and science to history and the natural world, informs his art. "I am always reading, studying, and observing; I find inspiration everywhere," he explains. As an illustrator, how do you approach storytelling differently?  Ryan's approach involves deeply understanding his characters. He spends hours drawing them in various scenarios until he feels a profound connection. "Knowing who the characters are is crucial," Ryan emphasizes. "Once I am satisfied with their portrayal, I can imagine their story." The visual language of art, including light, tone, and color, allows him to convey emotions without relying solely on words. What is your most memorable project from the past three years? Ryan's most cherished project involves painting a portrait of Sammy, a rescued American bulldog mix with a troubled past. Despite being sweet and friendly towards people, Sammy had difficulties around other large dogs, and an unfortunate incident occurred one summer. As Sammy battled progressive cancer in her final week, Ryan received a heartfelt request from his former manager and friend to create a lasting tribute by painting her portrait. This project holds a special place in Ryan's heart as a tribute to a beloved dog who was misunderstood. Which artwork is your personal favorite and why? “I believe that behind every exceptional piece of art lies a compelling story.” If he were to choose one collection of work, it would be Bill Waterson's Calvin and Hobbes. The comic strip sparked his imagination as a child with its dynamic characters, expressive poses, and beautiful watercolor backgrounds. Ryan holds great admiration for Bill Waterson as a true artist who brought the captivating world of Calvin and Hobbes to life. What does success and happiness mean to you as an artist? "If you can love every piece you create, that is success," Ryan emphasizes. He recognizes the distinction between commissioned works and the pieces that emerge from deep within, eliciting an unabashed smile. "Success comes from an established career and a deep fondness for what you do. The greatest success is sharing your story with the world." We were genuinely inspired by Ryan passion for art and his ability to breathe life into stories. This experience has ignited a sense of excitement as we continue to uncover the hidden talents within our community. The journey has only just begun, and we look forward to what lies ahead. Until next time.     To learn more about Ryan, you can reach him via email at r.c.thompson@live.com If you have any questions about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com