How to Start a Canadian Art Collection That Actually Means Something

Canada is a country of vast landscapes, layered histories, and quiet, powerful stories. From northern tundra to coastal forests, prairie skies to urban skylines, the Canadian experience is rich with imagery and meaning. Collecting Canadian art is one of the most personal ways to connect with that story.

But where does one begin?

Collecting Canadian Art

Start With What Feels Familiar

The most meaningful collections begin with connection. Perhaps it’s a landscape that reminds you of a place you love, a figure that reflects a shared experience, or a symbol that speaks to Canadian culture. Art that resonates emotionally will always have deeper value than simply choosing what is trending.

Canadian artists often draw inspiration from the places and identities that shape this country. When you collect work that reflects those stories, you are collecting more than an image. You are collecting a piece of lived experience.

Learn the Stories Behind the Work

A meaningful art collection is built on stories.

Who is the artist?
Where was the work created?
What inspired it?

Understanding the narrative behind a painting adds depth to the experience of living with it. Many Canadian artists travel extensively across the country gathering ideas, sketching landscapes, and documenting culture. That process becomes embedded in the finished work.

When you know the story, the painting becomes a window into a larger Canadian narrative.

Collecting Canadian Art

Buy From Living Canadian Artists

One of the most rewarding ways to begin collecting is by supporting artists who are actively creating today.

Purchasing work from a living artist directly or through reputable galleries not only supports the continuation of their practice, it also creates a connection between collector and creator. You become part of the artist’s journey as their work grows and evolves.

Across Canada there are outstanding galleries representing contemporary artists, and many artists also share work through their own studios and websites, offering collectors direct access to new pieces.

Build Your Collection Slowly

A meaningful collection is not built overnight. It develops over time as your taste evolves and your understanding deepens.

Start with a single piece that you truly love. Live with it. Let it become part of your space and daily life. Over time, you may find yourself drawn to other works that complement it or expand the story you are building.

Collections often grow organically, reflecting the places you’ve traveled, the artists you’ve discovered, and the moments that mattered.

Collecting Canadian Art: Collect Work That Reflects Canada

Canada’s artistic landscape is as diverse as its geography. From contemporary interpretations of northern wildlife to paintings inspired by Canadian music, winter culture, and everyday life, artists continue to interpret what it means to live here.

By collecting Canadian art, you are helping preserve and share those visual stories.

A strong collection does more than decorate a wall. It becomes a reflection of identity, culture, and personal history.

The Joy of Living With Art

At its core, collecting art should bring joy. A painting can transform a room, spark conversation, or remind you daily of a place, feeling, or memory.

When you begin collecting with intention and curiosity, your collection becomes something far more meaningful than a group of objects. It becomes a visual diary of your relationship with art and with Canada itself.

For those interested in exploring contemporary Canadian painting, you can view available works through my studio and through the galleries that represent my work in Banff, Newfoundland, and the United Kingdom. New works are also regularly released through my website.

Collecting Canadian art is a journey. The most important step is simply to begin.

Collecting Canadian Art

Wildflower Paintings Headed to North Vancouver Art Rental Program

You belong among the wildflowers. Recently I created a series of bold, pop art inspired, wildflower paintings. These paintings have now been selected for the North Vancouver Art Rental Program.

The North Vancouver Arts, art rental program is a collection of artworks available to rent and buy available through the art rental salon at Cityscape gallery in North Vancouver. Art rental is an affordable and flexible way to enjoy original 2-dimensional art. The Art Rental Program represents approximately 150 artists with over 350 original works in a wide variety of styles and subjects. Artworks include paintings, photography and mixed media with pieces ranging in size from 12″ x 12″ to 48″ x 48″.

North Vancouver Art Rental

Wildflower paintings by Brandy Saturley available through North Van Arts Art Rental

Rent Art for your home

If you are intending to purchase original art, you can rent work while deciding which piece to invest in. If you just moved into a new space, you can rent art to fill bare walls and create a lived-in feeling. When you plan to sell your home, home staging with original artwork can increase the aesthetic appeal of your residence. Art Rental is also an inexpensive way to impress your guests or create a distinctive mood for a special event or dinner party, or your home office!

Rent Art for your place of business

Enhance the atmosphere of your work environment. Use artwork at a restaurant, spa or office to create ambiance and energize the space. Art Rental provides exposure for local artists and acts as a tax-deductible expense for your business. Browse the collection online then visit us in person to confirm your selections, fill out the paperwork and pick up the artwork.

Rent Art for Film and TV

Visit our online gallery or come in person for your Set Dec needs. All of our artwork is copyright cleared. Rental to the film/television industry for set decoration is subject to different fees and services, and additional conditions. Please contact the Art Rental Coordinator for more information at 604-988-6844.

Floral Paintings in Bloom

North Vancouver Art Rental – Purchasing Art

If after renting you decide to purchase an artwork, up to three months of rental fees will be deducted from the selling price. Applicable taxes apply to rental fee and purchase price.

The Art of Brandy Saturley, Now available through the North Van Arts Rental program.

North Vancouver Art Rental

Hello Poppy!, c. 2025 Acrylic On Canvas 36 x 48 x 1.5 in (91.44 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm) Inv: POPPY-5800-2025 Brandy Saturley

North Vancouver Art Rental

Good Day Sunflower, c. 2025 Acrylic On Canvas 36 x 48 x 1.5 in (91.44 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm) Inv: SUNFLOWER-5800-2025 Brandy Saturley

North Vancouver Art Rental

A Wild Trio, c. 2025 Acrylic On Canvas 18 x 36 x 1.5 in (45.72 x 91.44 x 3.81 cm) Inv: ROSES-2500-2025 Brandy Saturley

10 Artworks to Love – New Paintings by Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley (2025)

It’s nearly October, and we’re three-quarters of the way through 2025. This year I’ve created more than 30 original paintings, landscapes, florals, and even a polar bear king. From Newfoundland to Vancouver Island, my work continues to tell vivid visual stories of Canadian culture, identity, and landscape.

10 Artworks to Love

Newfoundland Impressions – Paintings by Brandy Saturley at James Baird Gallery 2025

In February, I traveled to Boston to exhibit my paintings of polar bears and hockey as part of Winteractive, introducing my vision of contemporary Canadian art to an international audience. April brought me back to Newfoundland, where I was artist-in-residence at the Pouch Cove Foundation. During this time, I held a solo exhibition of my Newfoundland-inspired paintings and launched my first published art book, Painting Canada.

Solo Show in Newfoundland

Brandy Saturley with her art book, Painting Canada, 2025

By June, I was in Las Vegas, taking in the awe-inspiring architecture of the Sphere, experiencing Coldplay live, and gathering inspiration from the vibrant Las Vegas Arts District. Summer was dedicated to painting, while September marked a new chapter as I relocated my home and studio to Parksville, a seaside community on Vancouver Island, where I continue to explore Canadian identity through paint.

Parksville, BC on Vancouver Island, Canada

My work is represented by galleries across Canada, including James Baird Gallery (Newfoundland), Willock & Sax (Banff), Gust Gallery (Waterton Lakes), and Summer & Grace Gallery (Oakville, Ontario). Over the summer, nearly 30 new works were created and delivered to these Canadian art galleries.

10 Artworks to Love

Brandy Saturley at James Baird Gallery

This year also brought opportunities to connect with collectors and communities. In Edmonton, I contributed to Iconic Brands, a fundraiser supporting the Miller Art Gallery and the Roxy Theatre. In Hamilton, Ontario, my work was featured in Neighbourly at Coles Art Market, exploring themes of Canadian identity and what it means to be a good neighbour.

New Floral Paintings

Brandy Saturley in her Vancouver Island studio

Another exciting project has been a special commission for The Tragically Hip’s Poster Cellar. We are preparing to launch a limited-edition fine art print, while the original painting will be unveiled at my upcoming solo exhibition at the Miller Art Gallery in Edmonton this November.

Behind the Studio Door

Work in progress – Brandy Saturley studio

It has been a busy and inspiring year filled with exhibitions, travel, and new paintings. Here are 10 artworks to love, paintings created in 2025 that continue my journey as a contemporary Canadian artist sharing the spirit and stories of Canada through paint.

10 Artworks to Love

The Beach – Acrylic on wood panel – 18 x 24 x 2 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

New Paintings 2025

Red Rocks, Acrylic on wood panel – 18 x 24 x 2 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

10 Artworks to Love

Hello Poppy! Acrylic On Canvas – 36 x 48 x 1.5 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

Floral Paintings in Bloom

A Wild Trio, Acrylic On Canvas, 18 x 36 x 1.5 in – 2025 Brandy Saturley

Polar Bear and Moose Paintings

Float Away With Me, acrylic, gouache, gold leaf, 12 x 9 x 1.5 in 2025 Brandy Saturley

10 Artworks to Love

Please Stand By, Acrylic On Canvas, 30 x 40 x 1.5 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

First Paintings of 2025

Drunk on Dunkin’, Acrylic on wood panel, 18 x 24 x 2 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

10 Artworks to Love

Your Wonderland, Acrylic On Canvas, 16 x 16 x 1.5 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

Hanging On A Cloud, Acrylic On Canvas, 52 x 25 x 1.5 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

10 Artworks to Love

About A Boat, Acrylic On Canvas, 22 x 38 x 1.5 in, 2025 Brandy Saturley

See more paintings by Brandy Saturley.

Marking a Milestone – Studio Moving Sale

Big changes are happening in my world—I’m moving into a new, larger studio. This new creative space will give me more room to experiment, tackle larger canvases, and keep exploring the Canadian stories that have been at the heart of my work for the past twenty years.

Studio Moving Sale

Since the early 2000s, my paintings have been shaped by journeys across this country—capturing everything from the powerful presence of the Rockies to the windswept shores of the Atlantic, from quiet prairie skies to the colours of our northern lights. Along the way, I’ve painted symbols and scenes that speak to our collective identity: plaid patterns and poppies, canoes and hockey sticks, wildlife and wild landscapes. Each canvas is a reflection of time spent listening to the rhythms of Canada.

Studio Moving Sale

This move would not be possible without the people who believed in my work and chose to make it part of their lives. To thank my collectors—and to welcome new ones—I’m offering 20% off all original paintings priced over $5,000 for a limited time. This is both a celebration and an invitation: a moment to add another story to your collection or to begin one. This is a rare opportunity to collect significant works at special pricing, as I make room for the next evolution of my practice.

Banff Paintings

Studio Moving Sale

For longtime collectors, this is an opportunity to add another chapter to your collection. For new collectors, it’s a chance to begin your journey with a piece of art rooted in Canadian culture, history, and landscape—at a moment when my work continues to gain recognition and evolve.

The sale runs until September 15th. After that, I’ll be unpacking in the new studio and preparing for what’s next: a fresh chapter of Canadian-inspired paintings, larger in scale and scope.

Celebrate this milestone with me and bring home a piece of the journey.

See available Brandy Saturley  works here.

Studio Moving Sale

Buying Original Art Made in Canada is More Important Than Ever

Canadian art is a reflection of our unique landscapes, culture, and history. By acquiring original works, you help preserve and celebrate Canada’s diverse identity. It’s a way to connect to the stories and experiences that make this country special. Owning original Canadian art allows you to build a meaningful collection that can be passed down through generations. Each piece tells a story and becomes part of your personal legacy, enriching your space with depth and cultural significance. As mass production dominates the décor market, people are seeking unique, authentic pieces to differentiate their homes and offices. Buying original Canadian Art, provides character and individuality while avoiding the homogeny of mass-produced prints.

Buy Canadian Art

Canoe painting by Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley

What is the benefit to Americans, in buying Original Canadian Art?

The main benefit of Americans buying Canadian art is the opportunity to collect unique, high-quality artwork that reflects Canada’s rich cultural and natural landscapes while often being more affordable due to the favorable exchange rate.

The investment potential of Canadian art is a key benefit for American collectors. As Canadian artists gain international recognition, their work becomes more valuable, offering strong appreciation over time. Canada’s art market is growing, with emerging and established artists gaining attention from collectors worldwide.

Additionally, the favorable exchange rate allows American buyers to acquire high-quality artwork at a relatively lower cost than comparable pieces in the U.S., increasing the potential return on investment.

Many Canadian artists, including those exploring themes of national identity, landscape, and pop modernism, are gaining traction in museums, galleries, and corporate collections, further solidifying their market value. Investing in Canadian art not only supports the artist but can also lead to significant financial rewards as demand grows.

Buy Canadian Art

Two maple leaf paintings by Brandy Saturley

What is the benefit to American collectors interested in collecting Art made by Brandy Saturley?

For private investors and serious art collectors, acquiring Brandy Saturley’s work presents a compelling opportunity to invest in a distinctly Canadian voice in contemporary art. Her pop modernist style, infused with national iconography and storytelling, resonates deeply with collectors seeking artwork that is both culturally significant and investment-worthy.

Saturley’s paintings are increasingly sought after, with acquisitions by museums, corporate collections, and high-profile private collectors. As her reputation continues to grow, so does the value of her work, making it a strategic addition to any fine art portfolio.

Additionally, the favorable exchange rate provides American collectors with a unique advantage, allowing them to acquire museum-quality artwork at a lower cost than comparable pieces in the U.S. Investing now positions collectors ahead of the market, as interest in contemporary Canadian art continues to expand internationally.

Beyond financial appreciation, owning a Saturley painting means holding a piece of Canadian culture and history, with themes that speak to both national identity and universal storytelling.

Buy Canadian Art

See more paintings available to invest in and collect, from Brandy Saturley.

Announcing the Release of Our Annual Art Magazine: A Celebration of Canadian Creativity.

Every year, we take great joy in producing an exclusive art magazine for collectors and supporters of the Art of Brandy Saturley. This annual art magazine release is our heartfelt gift of gratitude to those who have been a driving force in sustaining the career of this exceptional Canadian artist, supporting her through investments in her paintings and enabling her to continue doing what she does best—creating art. Brandy Saturley’s contemporary interpretations of the collective Canadian consciousness, as seen through her eyes, are visual narratives that resonate not only with Canadians but also with those who have a deep love for Canada.

Annual Art Magazine Release

Some of the many Art Magazines published over the past decade.

NEW THIS YEAR! – Annual Art Magazine Release

The Art of Brandy Saturley is thrilled to offer this year’s annual art magazine to art enthusiasts worldwide through our online shop. This magazine, usually reserved as a private token of appreciation, is now available for purchase. The 2023 edition takes viewers on a captivating visual journey, providing a curated selection of 64 paintings spanning the years 2010-2023, personally chosen by the artist herself.

Annual Art Magazine Release

Immerse yourself in a visual retrospective that reveals the evolution of Brandy Saturley’s unique artistic voice, showcasing her profound connection with the Canadian landscape. Within the pages of this visual magazine, discover vivid compositions that bring the iconic landscapes of Canada to life. These symbolic, dynamic, and colorful paintings narrate the artist’s odyssey across the vast canvas of Canada, with each stroke serving as a testament to her love of painting and the stories she weaves.

Step into the world of Brandy Saturley, where each painting is a chapter, and every page turns into a visual tale. More than just a magazine, this publication is an exploration of contemporary Canadian art, offering an intimate encounter with the artist’s journey and celebrating the boundless creativity that defines Saturley’s work. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a stunning compilation—a must-have for any art lover seeking to embrace the spirit of a true Canadian artist.

 

The Story of the Polar Bear King marches on, new polar bear paintings.

You may have read my short story. ‘I am The Polar Bear’, it is a story about a polar bear king traversing Canada in search of a new home. It is a series of paintings begun in 2011, that continues to develop. This year the story of the polar bear is top of mind as global warming intensifies and a hot and dry summer continues to burn our forests and fill our air with campfire smells.

This year I have created 11 new paintings featuring this magnificent white bear, often wearing a crown of gold leaf. You will see one of my polar bear paintings on the Art in Nature Trail in Banff, Canada and 7 small works in the Willock & Sax Gallery in downtown Banff, on the appropriately named, Bear Street.

I have just completed two new paintings, inspired by the playful nature of these bears as they stretch on the melting ice and snow. While my trip to Churchill, Manitoba to observe the bear’s hasn’t come to fruition yet, I have been endlessly studying the bears through photographs and stories from the photographers that venture out on the Churchill Wild Safari expeditions.

I came to find that in their stretching movements the bears appeared to be doing yoga moves of sorts, brilliant bears! I found two round tondo canvasses tucked into the back wall of my studio and I began laying down some ideas about these playfully flexible and meditative bears. Two new paintings and a new short story about these bears practicing their own kind of yoga.

NEW Polar Bear Paintings

Inside Brandy Saturley studio, Victoria Canada

A Story of The Polar Bear King: Aurora Asana

“In a land far, far north, where the icy winds howled their disapproval, and snowflakes danced in disdain, lived a peculiar tribe of polar bears with a regal twist. These were no ordinary bears, for they had discovered the ancient art of yoga. And they weren’t content with just practicing their poses in seclusion; no, these polar bears sought something grander, something more majestic. The bears, led by their wise elder, King Bjorn the Benevolent, had an insatiable thirst for gold. Not for greed or vanity, mind you, but for a higher purpose. They believed that by wearing crowns of gold, they could channel their inner strength and wisdom, thereby uniting with the spirits of their ancestors.

As the world around them began to melt due to the ever-warming climate, the bears faced a challenge like no other. The once-familiar icy terrain was transforming into a vast expanse of water, forcing them to adapt to their new environment. But the bears, with their unwavering determination, refused to let their traditions and culture crumble with the melting ice. Under the shimmering Aurora Borealis, the polar bears gathered on the remaining icebergs that dotted the sea. Dressed in their crowns of gold, they performed their graceful yoga poses with a regal elegance. King Bjorn led the way, his majestic crown gleaming like the sun.

NEW Polar Bear Paintings

Plow – acrylic, gouache, gold leaf on canvas, 24 x 24 x 1 in (60.96 x 60.96 x 2.54 cm) Brandy Saturley

They called it “Aurora Asana” – a blend of yoga, meditation, and spirituality. As they stretched and contorted their mighty bodies, they channeled their energy towards preserving their culture and embracing the changes around them. With each breath, they embraced their fears and uncertainties, grounding themselves in the present moment. The icy waves splashed around them, but they remained undeterred, their concentration unbroken. In the face of adversity, they found solace in the unity of their tribe and their unwavering connection with the Arctic wilderness.

Their practice became a beacon of hope for other creatures struggling to adapt. Seals, penguins, and even some daring seagulls began attending the daily Aurora Asana sessions, seeking comfort and guidance in uncertain times. As the years passed, the polar bears continued their tradition, evolving with the ever-changing world. They learned to navigate the new waters and became ambassadors of the Arctic, spreading their message of harmony and adaptation to other lands.

NEW Polar Bear Paintings

Plank – acrylic, gouache, gold leaf, 24 x 24 x 1 in (60.96 x 60.96 x 2.54 cm), Brandy Saturley

And so, the polar bears with crowns of gold found strength in the ancient art of yoga and embraced the melting world around them, proving that even in the face of adversity, one could endure with grace and nobility, just like the majestic creatures they were.”

See more paintings by Brandy Saturley.

Where can you see the paintings of Brandy Saturley in person?

While the Canadian art world follows a schedule like that of educational institutions, with summer vacation allowing for travel and serious shows in the fall season, I believe that summer is the perfect time to plan an in-person art discovery. Despite being busy painting all year round, I often organize my summer vacation and travel around art destinations, seeking the opportunity to see art I have discovered online up close and personal. I always say that if you love a painting online, you will only love it more in person. The live and three-dimensional experience, with unique details and textures, allows you to immerse yourself fully in the artwork. You can even smell the painting and sometimes even spot the artist’s fingerprints—nothing compares to that special feeling. I enjoy visiting both art museums and commercial galleries. Museums provide me with the opportunity to study the masters, while galleries allow me to view the work of my contemporaries. This summer, you can see my paintings in person at some stunning mountain locations, as well as on Vancouver Island. Here are three places where you can view my work on canvas this summer.

In Banff, Alberta, Canada – Brandy Saturley at Willock & Sax Gallery

See Paintings in Person

Ranked as number one of 15 best places to visit in Canada by Lonely Planet, the town of Banff is nestled high in the Canadian Rockies within Banff National Park. Originally “Siding 29” on the Canadian Pacific Railway, the Banff townsite has attracted visitors from around the world since its very inception. Flanked on all sides by towering mountains dominated by Mt. Rundle and Cascade Mountains, the townsite is alive with adventure and opportunities to experience wonder. The vibrant streets of downtown are lined with top-class restaurants, bars and shops, as well as a number of incredible art galleries and museums. The Banff townsite is small, easy to get around by walking or cycling, and has a convenient public transit system. With a diverse range of activities for all ages, abilities and interests, every season here is sure to inspire unforgettable experiences. The Whyte Museum is a favourite destination for art and culture when I am in Banff, and I like to begin here and get the feel of the place before venturing out. You will find a selection of my paintings of Rocky Mountain landscapes and Polar Bear Kings at Willock & Sax Gallery on Bear Street. A hidden gem that is more removed from Banff Town, but accessible via a short hike up the side of a mountain (about 18 minutes from downtown) you will find the Banff Centre and the Walter Phillips Gallery. Walter Phillips Gallery is exclusively committed to the production, presentation, collection and analysis of contemporary art and curatorial practice. For contemporary artists, particularly those engaged in alternative forms of practice, Walter Phillips Gallery remains an essential and principal site where art is presented to an audience for critical reception. The gallery displays and collects works in various mediums such as painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, photography, and new media. The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, from 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM—please check the website for current opening hours.

In Whistler, British Columbia, Canada – Brandy Saturley at Adele Campbell Fine Art

See Art in Person

Ranked as the fifth best place to visit in Canada , by Lonely Planet, Whistler is globally renowned as the best ski destination in Canada and one of the best in the world. However, it’s also a destination for art. Whistler is a town located north of Vancouver, British Columbia, and it is home to Whistler Blackcomb, one of the largest ski resorts in North America. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the area offers activities such as snowshoeing, tobogganing, and ski jumping at the Olympic Park, which was a venue for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. The hub of Whistler is a compact, chalet-style pedestrian village situated at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The architecturally stunning Audain Art Museum is a favourite art and culture destination when I am visiting Whistler, and a great place to begin your Whistler art discovery. The Audain Art Museum’s Permanent Collection of nearly 200 works of art is a visual journey through the history of art from coastal British Columbia. Spanning from the 18th century to present day, the Collection contains one of the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks; a large collection of works by Emily Carr, encompassing all periods of her artistic career; as well as art by important post-war modernists such as E.J. Hughes, Gordon Smith and Jack Shadbolt. In addition to these historical works, the Collection showcases art by internationally renowned, contemporary British Columbia artists including Jeff Wall, Dana Claxton, Marianne Nicolson, Rodney Graham and Stan Douglas, among others. After you finish your tour at the Audain, head over to Adele Campbell Fine Art in the concourse at the Westin Hotel Whistler. The gallery presents a number of Saturley’s paintings telling visual stories on canvas featuring people and wildlife in Canadian landscapes, including a few of her signature polar bear stories.

On Vancouver Island, in Saturley’s North Saanich home studio (by appointment only) after selecting work online you can see the paintings in person.

Brandy Saturley Studio – North Saanich, Vancouver Island, Canada

Ranked as the fourth best place to visit in Canada, by Lonely Planet, Vancouver Island has been voted the best destination for nature lovers—and I can certainly confirm that. In recent years, the island has gained international attention through notable visitors like Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, who made North Saanich their temporary escape during the pandemic. Vancouver Island is also home to celebrities such as Pamela Anderson and Kim Cattrall, who recently spoke about her love for the island on the Kelly and Mark show in New York. Vancouver Island can be considered the Maui of Canada, offering a diverse range of activities from skiing to surfing, all within a few hours’ drive of each other. The island’s mild and moist climate nurtures old-growth forests of cedar and sequoia, as well as beautiful beaches on every side. We have cougars, bears, and even elk here on the island, and it’s not uncommon to catch a glimpse of Orca whales from our beaches. Vancouver Island is truly a nature lover’s dream and an excellent place to relax and rejuvenate your soul. To gain an understanding of BC art and culture, the Royal BC Museum is the ideal starting point. Following that, the Greater Victoria Art Gallery stands out as the prominent public gallery. In Sidney, close to North Saanich, you will find the Sidney Museum, a hidden gem that hosts eclectic shows larger than its small space. For over 30 years, the most unique destination for contemporary art lovers has been the Sooke Fine Arts Show. Every year for two weeks in July, the show takes place in a converted skating arena, transformed into a commercial art gallery offering art for sale. The show features a pianist and a number of artist demonstrations. Although it’s about a 45-minute drive from Victoria, the trip is well worth it as it offers an authentic representation of what contemporary West Coast Canadian artists, who are ‘Islanders,’ are creating.

In my North Saanich studio, I do offer the opportunity for serious buyers, curators and press to visit my studio by appointment. Many of the available paintings found on my website, can be viewed privately in my studio and my business manager, Robert, is happy to show you the paintings you select online, in person. After you select the paintings you would like to buy, you can schedule an appointment to view with Robert directly. 

Say Hello to Robert! Business manager for The Art of Brandy Saturley.

For the Love of Tulips & Tartans: New Tulip Still Life Paintings

I am excited to unveil two new captivating paintings that showcase the beauty and complexity of still life compositions. These new vibrant tulip still life paintings feature stunning red and yellow tulips bordered by a variety of tartan cloth. Through a unique blend of pop art, realism, and abstraction, I seek to offer you a fresh and captivating perspective on this timeless genre.

Chilliwack Tulip Festival 2023 – photo by Brandy Saturley

Contemporary Tulip Still Life Paintings: inception of an idea

Recently I visited the Chilliwack Tulip festival, in the farming community of Chilliwack, not far from Vancouver, Canada. A short ferry ride and drive from my studio on Vancouver Island, the tulip fields offer an annual opportunity for a Hollandesque experience in fields of tulips, daffodils and hyacinth. A feast for the eyes of an artist who works from photography captured on trips across Canada.

Chilliwack Tulip Festival 2023 – photo by Brandy Saturley

The Idea Takes Shape:

Returning home to my studio I sort through hundreds of vivid photos of tulips and think about how my next paintings will take shape. While there is an urge to paint a traditional landscape, that is not really what I do, rather I enjoy taking elements of the landscape and re-arranging them to honour these elements as icons in my paintings. My pop art expressions of the landscapes I encounter. My brain begins to think on these tulips and the joy of the experience wandering in the fields, the tulips seemed to dance and have personalities all their own. In my mind I began to see tartan, lots of tartans, draping around a canvas, creating an abstract border, with shadows, shapes and colour. I sought out some scraps of tartan from my local kiltmaker, and brought them home to my studio and began arranging them the way I had seen in my mind, around the edges of a canvas.

Tulip Still Life Paintings

The Beauty of Contrasts:

In these paintings, the contrasting colors and textures take center stage. The radiant red and yellow tulips are juxtaposed against vivid and supersaturated backgrounds, bordered by intricate patterns of the tartan cloth, creating a visually striking and harmonious contrast. It is this interplay of vibrant hues and intricate designs that draws you into the story of these paintings, inviting you to explore its depths and intricacies.

Tulip Still Life Paintings

Photo of palette in Brandy Saturley studio

A Playful Exploration of Space:

One of the most exciting aspects of these paintings is the way they play with positive and negative space. Inspired by the ever-changing formations of clouds, I wanted to create artworks that offer a new discovery every time you engage with them. Through a combination of realism and abstraction, I’m inviting  you to delve deeper into the paintings, uncovering hidden nuances and subtle details that may have eluded you at first glance. Painted using acrylics, neon hues of gouache and detailed with gold leaf elements, while the subjects remain still, the area surrounding vibrates.

Tulip Still Life Paintings

Photo of tartan and paintings in Brandy Saturley studio.

Embracing the Influence of Pop Art:

The infusion of my signature pop art elements adds a contemporary twist to the traditional still life genre. With bold and vibrant colors, meticulous attention to detail, and a nod to popular culture, I strive to create a visual language that captivates and engages the viewer. By incorporating pop art aesthetics into the depiction of classic subjects, I hope to challenge your perception and encourage you to see everyday objects in a fresh and exciting light.

Tulip Still Life Paintings

Photo of tulip paintings in progress – Brandy Saturley studio.

Much like the ever-shifting forms of clouds…

Brandy Saturley in her North Saanich, Canada studio

These new still life paintings represent a journey of creativity and exploration. As an artist, I am thrilled to share my passion with you and invite you to join me on this artistic adventure. The vibrant red and yellow tulips, complemented by the intricate tartan cloth, create a visual symphony that continuously evolves, much like the ever-shifting forms of clouds. Through the manipulation of positive and negative space, I create an ever-changing and captivating viewing experience. I am honored to share my artistic vision with you and look forward to the discoveries and emotions that these paintings will evoke.

Tulip Still Life Paintings

Tartan Tulip – Lemon acrylic, gouache, gold leaf 36 x 24 x 1.5 in (91.44 x 60.96 x 3.81 cm) C$4,400 Brandy Saturley

Tulip Still Life Paintings

Tartan Tulip – Rouge acrylic, gouache, gold leaf 36 x 24 x 1.5 in (91.44 x 60.96 x 3.81 cm) C$4,400 Brandy Saturley

These paintings were created on the very latest in sustainable canvas technology. Painted on cloth canvas made of recycled plastic bottles, it is my first time trying out Liquitex Sustain professional canvas. Each canvas seen here represents 18 recycled plastic bottles. More about these unique canvasses.

See more original paintings by Canadian Pop Artist, Brandy Saturley, now.

Art Celebrating Polar Bears on International Polar Bear Day

International Polar Bear Day is celebrated every year on February 27th. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of polar bears and the impact of climate change on their habitat. Polar bears are one of the most iconic species of the Arctic and are often the animal used to represent climate change. The art that follows celebrates this magnificent Arctic beast and the significance of International Polar Bear Day and the changing landscapes the bear roams.

Art Celebrating Polar Bears

Wanderlust, acrylic and gouache, 36 x 60 x 1.5 in (91.44 x 152.4 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley

Polar bears are found in the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, Norway, Russia, and the United States. They are the largest land carnivore and are perfectly adapted to life in the Arctic. Polar bears have a thick layer of fat and a dense coat of fur that keeps them warm in the extreme cold. They are excellent swimmers and can swim for long distances in search of food. Polar bears primarily feed on seals and depend on sea ice for hunting. However, due to climate change, sea ice is melting at an alarming rate, which is causing a decline in the polar bear population.

polar bear paintings

King of The Polar Bears, Acrylic painting On Canvas, 36 x 48 x 1.5 in, (91.44 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm), Brandy Saturley

Climate change is the biggest threat faced by polar bears. The Arctic is warming twice as fast as the rest of the world, which is causing the sea ice to shrink. As the sea ice melts, polar bears are losing their habitat and food source. Polar bears are also affected by other human activities, such as hunting, pollution, and oil and gas development. These activities further exacerbate the impact of climate change on polar bears.

Art Celebrating Polar Bears

The Polar Bear began appearing in the paintings of Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley as early as 2014. Saturley’s first polar bear painting featured a young blonde girl, wearing a POOK meeting a polar bear face-to-face over a crack in the arctic ice. The painting titled, ‘Face-Off’, would tell the visual storyteller of curiosity between child and bear and hint at the changing landscape Arctic home of the polar bears.

polar bear paintings

Face Off, Acrylic on canvas painting,36 x 48 x 1.5 in, (91.44 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm, Brandy Saturley

Over the years the Canadian painters’ artworks have come to address the plight of the polar bears in playful ways, creating bold visual stories on canvas. Asking the question, ‘What if polar bears went on road trips to find new homes and adapt to new areas of Canada?’ Her recent works feature the polar bears riding on JEEP’s and even canoes portaged by humans.

Art Celebrating Polar Bears

Queen of The Polar Bears, Acrylic painting On Canvas, 36 x 48 x 1.5 in, (91.44 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm), Brandy Saturley

International Polar Bear Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the plight of polar bears and the need for conservation efforts. It is a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting the environment and reducing our carbon footprint. By taking simple steps such as reducing energy consumption, recycling, and using public transportation, we can all contribute to the fight against climate change.

Art Celebrating Polar Bears

When Polar Bears Fly, Acrylic painting On Canvas, 30 x 48 x 1.5 in, (76.2 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm), Brandy Saturley

In conclusion, International Polar Bear Day is an important day to remember the importance of protecting our environment and the impact of climate change on wildlife. It is a call to action to take steps to reduce our carbon footprint and protect the habitats of these magnificent animals. We must all work together to ensure a sustainable future for polar bears and the planet.

Polar Bear Art

Balance, Acrylic painting on canvas, 48 x 36 x 1.5 in, (121.92 x 91.44 x 3.81 cm), Brandy Saturley

Polar Bear Paintings

I Am The Polar Bear acrylic, gouache, gold leaf 24 x 12 x 1.5 in (60.96 x 30.48 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley

Canadian Painters Brandy Saturley

The Conversation acrylic, gouache, gold leaf 48 x 48 x 1.5 in (121.92 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley

polar bear paintings

Polar Play, Acrylic On Canvas, 48 x 48 x 1.5 in – A playful polar bear balances shapes of butterflies and balls on the tip of his nose. From a sketch this polar bear with more realistic details is set against a abstract background of shapes and colours, reminiscent of northern lights.

See more of Saturley’s Polar Bear Paintings here.