Holiday Gift Guide

November 04, 2024

November is here and Christmas is just around the corner. I work in retail and those holiday tunes will soon be on the daily playlist. If you are not into last-minute shopping like myself, you might find this helpful.

Love this reversible woven throw by Clr. So many fun patterns to choose from and free shipping over $100.

I follow someone on Instagram who said they wore these earrings every day. I bought them in April before we went to LA and have not taken them off since. They come in a few metal colours and are very affordable.

American artist Kirsten Williams will soon be releasing her holiday collection on Novemeber 18th. How pretty are these hand painted ornaments. Follow her here for details.

Years ago I was introduced to the brand Lothantique. It has been a favourite of mine for quality and scent. My go-to is the Verbena.

Furbish Studio is known for their needlepoint pillows, but these rich velvet hues caught my eye. They are also currently on sale.

Handmade artisan pottery is always a favourite of mine and Fable makes beautiful pieces. Pasta bowls are something anyone could use and are available in lots of colours.

A book you can cut up and make art with…count me in. Get your creative juices flowing with this gift idea.

Winter is on its way and you can never have too many toques. My daughters would love lots of the patterns Herschel has, I dig the stripes!

A few years ago my husband gifted me one of these mid-century birds. It is displayed on a bookshelf in our living room and makes me happy.

I love a hot cup of tea and a metallic kettle would be a statement in any kitchen.

A framed family photo can be instantly customized with these hand made mattes. Emily Romero makes beautiful marbled paper products.

When I was in art school one of my favourite things to wear to class was a grey cardigan that was my grandpa’s. This cotton blend cardigan looks cozy and is on sale.

Mackenzie from MVP Studio is an American potter who is so talented. Her unique use of colour gets me excited, I would love to receive any of her pieces.

The Bear television show is so popular and chef Matty Matheson just came out with a new cook book. Perfect for the foodies on your list.

Have a great week friends and happy shopping!

Art

October 15, 2024

I love discovering new to me artists. As soon as I went onto American painter Susan Lichtman’s website, I tried to see if she offered prints of her original pieces. They capture the people and places of her everyday life and instantly drew me in. The colour palettes and somewhat abstract figures of her oil paintings are wonderful and I wanted to share them with you. Here are a few favourites.

“Drawing Room” painting by Susan Lichtman

“Studio Doors with Vacuum” painting by Susan Lichtman

“Cyan Kitchenette” painting by Susan Lichtman

“Father’s Day” painting by Susan Lichtman

“Equinox Meal” painting by Susan Lichtman

Lately

September 07, 2024

As the seasons change, many people including myself feel an itch to switch up their surroundings. Little things make a difference if you shop your own house & move things around. I had a muted washable rug under our kitchen table that has now moved to the laundry room. Our dog is huge, sheds, drools and his dog bed & food bowls are right beside the eating area. Cross your fingers that this wool rug stands up here. My daughter came home from school and wasn’t upset I moved it out of her room.

Our dog Biggie just turned ten a few weeks ago. He loves walks, belly rubs and cheese.

I recently discovered artist Marissa Voytenko and love her current encaustic work. So hard to choose a favourite but I will always love a blue/green combo. Check the website out here to see her portfolio.

One of my favourite ways to relax is to sit with a hot cup of tea & watch a great house tour. I recently saw designer Jessica Davis’s home featured on Homeworthy & it is a mid- century dream. Check it out here. Another mid-century home I enjoyed is this restored home in Florida. This textile designers home is full of colour & pattern. Enjoyed watching this tour of a charming cottage in Berlin. This home in Maine is so charming, I love the library and the plywood walls. Their collections of art & pottery are so good!

My mother-in law just left for Spain, and the other night I discovered this gorgeous pottery. We will have to wait & see if our family gets any souvenirs from her holiday.

I saw this cutting board & thought oh that is fun! Maybe I need a new one with a pattern. I fell in love with this fabric as soon as I saw it, now I have to think of what I can upholster in it.

I just purchased this book as a Birthday gift for myself. I can’t wait to open it and get inspired. I just watched this trailer and look forward to when it comes out.

Inspiration

July 20, 2024

This painting has been a work in progress for months. It took me a while to complete and I finally photographed it and added it to my shop. “Girl with Bun” 16x20” if you are looking for a pop of colour for your home.

I always find inspiration from the colours and patterns in interior design. Here are some images that caught my eye.

New Still Life Collection

April 24, 2024

At the beginning of the year, I was having fun creating pieces that were new for me. I had the urge to paint decorative things like busts, books, pottery, shells, flowers and so much more. I am very thankful for the collectors who have given my artwork a new home. The ideas are still flowing and I am excited to share these new paintings with you.

There are eleven original paintings available, 6x8”, 11x14”, 16x20” and 20x24”. Mother’s Day is just around the corner, add to your art collection or give someone an original handmade gift. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out. I am open to doing commissions if you need a different size.

New Collection!

March 04, 2024

Most of my free time during February was spent painting this new collection. Early mornings before work dreaming up patterns on these organic shapes from the sea. As I was editing the photos I counted the shells, hard to believe I painted a total of 218 of these unique designs. My daughters have been calling them “Shell Girls”, but I think I’m going to stick with my original title “Busts With Shells.”

All of the eleven paintings are originals. There are 18x24” pieces on paper as well as 11x14” & 6x8” paintings on canvas board. Check them out and share them with a friend who might enjoy them. I’m going to move back now to the subject matter of still lifes and see what I come up with.

Still Life Collection

January 31, 2024

I’m so excited to share these new paintings with you! They are filled with things that I love and collect. Pottery, books, textiles, artwork with lots of colour and pattern.

I finally found inspiration and time in the studio and do not want to stop creating these unique compositions. There are ten original paintings available, sizes are 6x8” and 11x14” on canvas board. In the future I will offer larger pieces on gallery-wrapped canvas. They can be framed and hung or leaned on a bookshelf or against another piece of artwork for a layered look.

I’ve spent many hours dreaming of colour combinations and looking through designs and patterns that caught my eye. I hope you will check them out and share with someone who might enjoy the collection.

It is such a good feeling to start a new year with so many ideas, I can’t wait to see what this year has in store for my small business.

Farewell December

December 11, 2023

As the year comes to an end I want to thank everyone who continues to cheer me on and share my artwork with the world. Every time a collector sends me a photo of the art they have selected for their home/design project it makes me so happy. This year I was thrilled with your response to my portrait paintings, something new for me. I enjoyed the process so much.

I am currently creating a collection of still lifes, looking forward to sharing them with you next year. I’m enjoying keeping them to myself for now.

I’ve had this photo saved on my phone for a while now. Love watching SNL & my favourite actor Matt Damon. Deck the halls!

I love seeing other people’s art collections and this home tour did not disappoint. Designer Natalia Miyar has a good eye, a variety of mediums including ceramics and sculptures fill her home. Check it out. I also loved the art collection in the home of designer Jennifer Mills, check it out here. This textile designer has a lovely summer cabin full of colour and pattern.

I love listening to Tom Petty and recently came across this documentary from a few years back. The making of Tom’s favourite album Wildflowers which was produced by the talented Rick Rubin. Check it out. Watching musicians /painters work, listening to actors/designers, reading biographies. I enjoy getting an inside look into the minds of creative people. I have yet to read Ricks's book The Creative Act: A Way of Being, but it’s on my list.

Neil Young just released a new album and I am looking forward to listening to it while I paint.

The gallery McCully & Crane in East Sussex has the best curated vignettes. I could scroll through their photos every day and find new inspiration. Check them out.

Lately

November 08, 2023

I thought about writing a blog post during the month of October but it never happened. I hope you are taking care of yourself, the world is a lot right now. I have not felt like creating anything and have kept myself busy with my family when I’m not at work. If you are coming here as an escape I will share some things that have made me happy lately. I enjoyed this house tour/ watch part 2 here, love a good reno.

When I do go back to the studio I plan to create still life paintings. This post inspired me, as well as this recent painting I purchased from an estate sale. It’s not signed so I don’t know anything about the artist. It was listed as a 1920s oil painting, and the colours are even better in person.

I recently found out from On The Wall Framing that some of my collages were selected for the Princess Margaret Lottery Home. I love seeing my artwork installed, and discovered the photography of Cody Greco which compliments my work nicely.

If you haven’t watched Welcome to Wrexham check it out, nothing but good reviews. I don’t follow soccer but really enjoy this documentary and find myself quite emotional while watching it.

This garden feature in House and Garden UK is so lush. The lilac-coloured flowers add the perfect pop to this photo. I can imagine myself sitting here with my sketchbook taking everything in.

I read Emily Henderson’s deign blog daily and was excited to see her new rug line. Check it out.

Lately

September 01, 2023

I didn’t plan on taking the Summer off from creating however, I did take a long break. When I wasn’t working at my full-time job time was spent with my family. I recently completed a commission which got me back to my studio.

It was an easy process in case you have ever wondered how it works. I was emailed photos of the room with a colour palette in mind. I asked the collector to choose a few compositions that I could reference as inspiration. Before the collage is glued down I send photos to make sure everyone is happy and then payment is taken before I ship it out. If you are interested in custom artwork please feel free to reach out. The light purple is a wonderful accent in the piece.

I have loved this photograph by artist Ed Freeman for a few years now and recently purchased the artist’s book that features a print of this image. I plan to have it framed, not sure where it will be hung yet…but I’m excited!

Plain House, Trona, California by Ed Freeman

I’ve been working on some 4x6” original collages and having a wonderful time dreaming up new compositions. This size is a great option if you want a grouping of 4 or more as I price them very affordably. In the past I have offered this size through sales in my IG stories, I have not decided what I will do with this collection. I love seeing how designer Michelle Berwick always styles my art in her projects. I prefer the look of an oversized matte with a 4x6” collage-like they have chosen below.

Sarah Sullivan Sherrod makes incredible weavings full of colour. This is her largest piece to date and immediately caught my eye.

*“Funhouse” Acrylic on Handwoven Textiles*

A collector in England recently sent me this photo of my artwork installed in her home office. It made my day! Please keep sending me photos it really does make me happy.

I love a good gallery wall and this design by Meet West Studio is fun. Eclectic with various frames and mediums/colours work so well filling this large wall.

Inspiration

July 19, 2023

The other day I took my daughter’s scootering at Trent University. I knew I would regret not bringing my phone to photograph the architecture, there is so much inspiration everywhere. I love this detail of concrete with wood slats and rusted metal, so much texture! Check out this account for some stunning shots of the University.

Here are some other images that caught my eye and have me dreaming of a home studio in a little mid-century home somewhere. Colour, texture, Summer…a bit of everything.

Summer

June 24, 2023

Is officially here and my husband & I just got back from a relaxing getaway to The Trace Resort. The weather was perfect, this was the view from our deck on Oak Lake. It is also dog-friendly, Biggie is tired from all that fresh air. Our cabin was pretty cute.

It’s rainy outside but this new painting I recently finished has Summer vibes. The eyelet blouse was my jumping-off point and I’m really happy with the final piece.

I saved this image from pinterest a while back. That wall of tile is incredible, I love the abstract pattern so much!

I wish I could make pottery that looked as good as these unique pieces designed by Mackenzie Vaughan Pikaart. Check out her shop here.

I really enjoyed this home tour by Architectural Digest, very dreamy! I love this one too.

I personally love a smaller home and this mid century renovation is more my style. Or this art filled home in Melbourne.

Michelle Berwick Design has been very supportive and often shares my artwork with their clients. Love seeing my painting displayed in this kitchen project.

Lately

June 19, 2023

I debated keeping this painting for my own collection as I loved it so much. I am very happy it has found the perfect spot in designer Margo Gardner’s home. Last week she shared these photos with me, I told her I might invite myself over this guest room looks so cozy. The gold frame that Margo chose highlights the painting so well, love it!

“When one of my favorite artists, Holly Young, released a new series of portraits, I fell head over heels for this piece. The sweetness of the facial expression won me over on an emotional level, and the color combination is not only beautiful in its own right but perfect for this room. I could stare at it forever.”

It truly makes my day whenever a collector sends me a photo of my artwork in its new home. Keep sending me photos please!

New Collages

May 29, 2023

Neutrals, organic shapes, and lots of texture. I can’t pick a favourite from this latest series of collages. I’ve been saving this marbled paper for a few months and was excited to finally work it into some pieces. Hang one on its own, or choose a grouping for that perfect statement. Check them out here.

Arts Effect -Fundraising Auction

May 01, 2023

“Arts Effect is back on May 11th, 2023 at The Broadview Hotel in support of one of Toronto’s most beloved arts organizations, VIBE Arts. This is an annual auction featuring some of Canada’s finest contemporary works curated by a team of arts and culture professionals. All funds raised, through tickets and the sale of art, go on to support VIBE Arts, an award-winning charitable organization committed to providing youth in under-resourced communities with high-quality community and school-based arts education.”

There is a silent and live auction, bidding starts today on the artwork selected for the silent auction. I have an original collage “Upside” 18x24” available that has been professionally framed by On The Wall Framing.

Here are some of my favourite pieces, go check them out. You can never have too much art, fill your walls!

“Looking Seeing” Tahsine Al Hassane 48x36”

“Am I Flirting With You?” Moira Ness 17x7.5”

“Red Chair with Spider Plant and Book” Mary Finlayson 36x24”

The Collective - Mother's Day Release

April 25, 2023

I have been busy in the studio and I am so excited to share these new paintings with you. My collectors welcomed “ The Collective” last month with such positive feedback, I thought I would offer you some smaller portraits that would make the perfect Mother’s Day gift. The collection was just added to my shop.

I’ve spent many hours dreaming of colour combinations and clothing for each individual piece. There are 8 new 6x8” paintings on canvas board available, I hope you check them out and share them with a friend.

Spring

April 14, 2023

Is finally here and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve been working on a commission of collages, and can’t wait to get them glued down. I thought I would share some things that have caught my eye lately. Lots of colour for Spring.

I had the opportunity to see Florence and the Machine in concert a few years ago, her style and essence always stand out to me. This colour combination of chartreuse, light blue with red hair has been noted.

Earlier this year I discovered American artist Hope Olson and love her work! Check her out.

The florals, texture and patterns of the pottery and that indigo fabric are so good!

This entire home in London makes me happy. I am always looking at interior design for inspiration, this space that homeowner Lucy Williams resides in is full of unique and quirky design elements.

When I released my latest collection “The Collective” a few weeks ago I knew I still wanted to paint a few more pieces. A portrait with bangs was on my list and I challenged myself and am happy with the final piece. To my surprise, a friend from high school sent me a lovely message after purchasing it. “I’m so excited to get it. I’ve been waiting for one of your pieces to yell at me it needed to come to my house and this one did. She resembles one of my daughters.”

While in the studio I am most often listening to a podcast. A new one for me is The Business of Home. Today I enjoyed this interview on Armchair Expert and always check to see who Marc Maron is chatting with.

Artist Jenny Andrews Anderson’s work is full of vibrancy and colour. She is releasing a new collection of Iris’s this week and I can’t choose a favourite. Check out her website if you get a chance, her blog has great inspo for fashion, home decor and art. This acrylic easel would be the perfect display for your favourite artwork, photograph or book.

The Collective

March 20, 2023

I’ve been painting almost every day for five weeks now. Early March my husband asked me when I was going to stop, my reply was “I’m not sure…I know I’m not done yet.” The inspiration was flowing, I was dreaming of colour combinations and patterns and would wake up and paint.

The process is the best part for me, I made the choice early on to not share glimpses into the collection on social media. I didn’t want anyone’s opinion in my head.

~The Collective~ is now available in my shop, I would love it if you checked it out.

I shared this quote by Rick Rubin recently, it felt perfect for where I was at the time.

I began working on paper and then switched to canvas board. I wanted to define the hair on each piece and the paint was drying too quickly for my liking on the paper. It is always experimental at first, several paintings didn’t make the release. I painted sunglasses for the first time but felt that the eyes were a distinct feature that I did not want to hide.

The Collective #2 is the second painting on paper that I created in this series.

The Collective #5 references the person I painted in a piece I made for myself in December. I posted about it in January and love this colour palette.

There are also 11x14” original paintings on canvas board available. It’s hard for me to choose a favourite, I love certain details in each one. It was so fun to photograph them all together like this.

If you do connect with this collection reach out. I would love to hear what catches your eye or if a certain painting reminds you of someone. Thank you for all of your comments on Instagram and Happy Spring! Now if the snow would just melt already.

First Collection of 2023

February 26, 2023

Last week I finally got all of my new collages photographed and shipped to Toronto. Tara at On The Wall Framing asked for new work for her clients, neutrals are always a hit with them. I love how these pieces came together, here are a few favourites from the collection.

I snapped this photo in my studio before everything was glued down to make sure I was happy with the compositions. I will be making more collages for my online shop come Spring, as I am currently exploring painting.

I can’t believe it is almost March, I am so ready for Spring. It makes a big difference in my day as I am often motivated to create artwork after coming home from work and having dinner. Those few extra hours of daylight really do make be happy, and I know I am not alone.

Lately

January 02, 2023

I had a wonderful holiday with family and will be taking some time off soon. If you order from my online shop in January, the artwork will ship the week of January 23rd.

I took the time to create a new painting for myself last week. The last piece of the year! I admire the artist Rebecca Jack whom I discovered a few months ago. She encouraged me to experiment with a new medium and subject matter and I’m so glad I did. When I’m back in the studio in February I hope to move forward with some new work in this style.

An artist friend shared this and I connected with it and thought you might too. Photo and text by Elena Fiorenza Gatti.

I don’t make a list of goals or a mood board for myself after the holidays. I take it day by day and if I can find time to go to the studio then it’s a win. I do have another job and my role as an artist is not full-time. One day I would love to be creating artwork as my every day dream job.

I am open to commissions, send me an email if you are interested in a custom piece of artwork. Cheers friends & Happy New Year!