Painting Dory Boats of Newfoundland

To Dory or Not to Dory: Painting the Timeless Charm of Newfoundland Dory Boats

In these two new acrylic paintings on wood panel I set out on a journey through time and tradition, delving into the captivating world of Newfoundland’s iconic dory boats. From their humble origins to their vibrant presence in Petty Harbour, these vessels have etched their place in maritime history and inspired generations of artists, including myself. I have been painting Dory Boats of Newfoundland.

Brandy Saturley in her North Saanich, Canada studio, 2024

Capturing the Essence:
As I explored the picturesque landscapes of Newfoundland, it was the allure of the dory boats that drew my attention. Whether it was their distinct form, adorned with striking hues, or their silent presence amidst bustling waterways and strewn across the land, these boats cast a spell on my soul. In these new paintings, I am telling visual stories of their essence on wood panel, weaving tales of Newfoundland’s maritime heritage.

Petty Harbour, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

Unraveling History:
While the true origins of the dory may be shrouded in mystery, the meticulous research of scholars like John Gardner has unveiled glimpses of its past. Dating back to 1719, the dory’s journey spans continents, yet its heart remains rooted in the fishing communities of North America. From the shores of Long Island to the rugged coastline of Newfoundland, these boats have been integral to the livelihoods of fishermen for centuries.

Petty Harbour, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

A Portrait of Petty Harbour:
Nestled along the eastern shores of the Avalon Peninsula lies Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove, a quaint haven steeped in history. With its roots tracing back to the 1600s, this bustling fishing community has witnessed the ebb and flow of generations. Against a backdrop of rolling green hills and the vast expanse of Motion Bay, Petty Harbour stands as a testament to Newfoundland’s enduring spirit.

Motion Bay, Petty Harbour, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

Romanced by Tradition: Painting Dory Boats of Newfoundland

In my latest works, I pay homage to the timeless pull of Newfoundland’s dory boats, particularly those adorning the vibrant hues of yellow, green, white, and red. With each brushstroke, I aim to evoke the nostalgia and romance synonymous with these beloved vessels. From the glistening waters of Petty Harbour to the bustling towns, my paintings serve as visual love letters to the dories that grace Newfoundland’s shores.

In studio making a painting about two dory boats. – Brandy Saturley

A Dory for You and One for Me

A Dory for You and One for Me, Acrylic on wood panel , 24 x 18 x 1.5 in, (60.96 x 45.72 x 3.81 cm) – Brandy Saturley 2024

Downside Up

Downside Up Acrylic on wood panel 18 x 24 x 1.5 in (45.72 x 60.96 x 3.81 cm), Brandy Saturley 2024

As I reflect on my artistic journey through Newfoundland’s coastal wonders, one thing remains clear: the dory boats of Petty Harbour are more than just vessels; they are guardians of tradition, symbols of resilience, and timeless beacons of maritime charm. Through my art, I hope to preserve their legacy for generations to come, ensuring that their stories continue to inspire and enchant all who encounter them.

You can find more of my Newfoundland Paintings here.

March 8, 2024

Painting Love on The Rock

Artist Residency, New Paintings

Capturing Newfoundland’s Essence: ‘Love on The Rock’

It was an early October morning, I rolled out of bed in my loft at the Pouch Cove Foundation, and stumbled sleepy eyed down unfinished wooden stairs in my wool socks, trying not to lose footing and slide to the bottom. Today my plan was to make it to Cape Bonavista Newfoundland, a four hour drive each way in one day, all to see an iconic east coast lighthouse and town, two peninsula’s up from my Pouch Cove studio. The gift of rising extra early on this day was a glimpse of a sunrise, in the first place to see the sun in North America. With foggy mornings and ever changing Autumn skies, thanks to constant wind gusts, the light changes rapidly in this place, which is wonderful for an artist who paints and take photographs. It also means you have to work and move quickly, and use your eyes and intuition to capture what may be delivered in any given minute.

Sunrise in Pouch Cove, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

Fast-forward to right now, the month of Love, February. I have been going over my photography and writings of the trip, and finding what speaks to me visually and in my heart. As this series of paintings about Newfoundland continues to grow and evolve, I am finding myself recalling the romance of the wind, rain, cliffs, waves and light. I am connecting to the feeling of the place, even though I am home on the west coast. Every day I walked the town and parts of the East Coast Trail, often crossing back through the cove and sitting above the Cove letting the wind rip through me, returning to my studio with crimson face, the kind where if you put your hand on your cheek it leaves a temporary white imprint of your fingers. More than a few times I got caught in a rain storm as the skies shifted quickly, but I LOVED IT. I wanted to get soaked, cold, salty and tingle. It feels like a clean slate, a new adventure, a fresh perspective, and these are all things I came to Newfoundland for, developing something new in my work.

Heart shaped blue rock – Chance Cove, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

‘Love on The Rock’: a journey of discovery, of connection, and of love

With this new painting I find I am expressing all these things, in a figurative landscape that includes floating rocks, which is something I have painted 3 times now since I began developing this series. Of all the great things that commanded my attention when I was in Pouch Cove, rocks were the number one draw for me, the variety, the colours, the shapes and how each beach I visited had distinctly different selections and colours. The Rock of The Rock is REMARKABLE.

Constructing LOVE on the beach – Bell Island, Newfoundland – Brandy Saturley

This brings me to my new painting, titled ‘Love on The Rock’. For in the heart of Newfoundland’s wild embrace, amidst the silent symphony of rocks and waves, lies a love story waiting to be told—a story of love on The Rock.

Love on The Rock, Acrylic Painting On Canvas, 18 x 36 x 1.5 in, Brandy Saturley

February 21, 2024

Painting Newfoundland Vibrant Reds

New Paintings

Painting Newfoundland: Exploring the Vibrant Reds of Canada’s Atlantic Gem

Having penned numerous blog entries since my inspiring residency at the James Baird/Pouch Cove Foundation back in October 2023, I find myself revisiting the vibrant memories of my time in Newfoundland and Labrador. Amidst the rugged beauty and historical richness of this Atlantic province, one element consistently stands out: the vivid presence of the color red. It’s a hue that not only adorns the buildings and iron gates of old but also seems to embody the spirit of this unique corner of Canada. As I delve into the images and recollections from my journey, I’m struck by the prevalence of red, whether in its matte simplicity or glossy allure, gracing the architecture of places like Tors Cove and Brigus. I am painting Newfoundland and her vibrant reds.

Brandy Saturley at Cape Spear Lighthouse, Newfoundland and Labrador

The Historical Significance of Red in Newfoundland

The tale of red in Newfoundland dates back centuries, with a notable incident in 1610 when a container of red paint was accidentally spilled in Cupids Cove. Fast forward four hundred years, and archaeologists stumbled upon this spill, marking the earliest evidence of red ochre paint on a building in Newfoundland and Labrador. Beyond this accidental discovery, indigenous communities, particularly the Beothuk, had long embraced red ochre, utilizing it to adorn tools, garments, and even their bodies, imbuing it with spiritual meaning.

Photograph of red saltbox house at Tors Cove – Brandy Saturley

For generations, fishermen employed red ochre to coat their stages and stores, resulting in a spectrum of hues when mixed with natural oils—seal oil yielding a truer red, while fish oil produced a warmer, ruddy brown. These ochre paints, often thinned with turpentine or kerosene, evolved over time, with early 20th-century markets offering an array of shades under names like oxblood, carmine, vermillion, and rose pink.

The Artistic Significance of Red

Red isn’t merely a color; it’s a symbol steeped in history, from its earliest use in prehistoric art to its enduring presence in contemporary culture. Across civilizations, red has held multifaceted significance, often associated with love, joy, and good fortune. In art and textiles, its allure is undeniable, commanding attention with its warmth and vibrancy.

Photo of gate St. Georges Church, Brigus – Brandy Saturley

Understanding the Psychology of Red in Art

Delving deeper, the psychology of red unveils a range of emotions and associations. From love and desire to anger and aggression, red evokes powerful reactions. It symbolizes passion and warmth, yet also serves as a beacon of danger and intensity. Throughout history, red has been wielded as a tool for political and social expression, shaping movements and stirring emotions with its bold presence on canvas and in life. In capturing the essence of Newfoundland, one cannot overlook the significance of red—both in its historical roots and its artistic resonance. It’s a color that transcends mere pigment, weaving a narrative of culture, tradition, and the indomitable spirit of Canada’s Atlantic province.

Two New Paintings: Loving Newfoundland Vibrant Reds

The Little Red Saltbox of Tors Cove

Little Red Saltbox Acrylic painting 18 x 24 x 2 in Brandy Saturley

Nestled in the rugged arms of Newfoundland’s embrace,
This little red saltbox, a symbol of grace.
Amidst the craggy cliffs and wild, rolling sea,
It stands as a testament to resilience and glee.

The little red saltbox house at Tors Cove, Newfoundland, is an iconic location and much photographed home.
I met this little house at the end of a long day as the sun was coming down in the Fall of 2023. It was the perfect day!

The red clover iron gate of Old St. Georges Church in Brigus

Strawberry Clover Acrylic painting 18 x 24 x 2 in Brandy Saturley

In Brigus town where tales unfold,
Stands a church with secrets untold,
Its gate of strawberry clover’s bloom,
A sacred space, where love finds room.

Beneath the arch of crimson hue,
I met my love, my heart anew,
Amongst the grass of vibrant green,
A fateful meeting, yet unseen.

Old St. George’s Church, Brigus, Newfoundland – I was romanced by her during my 2023 residency at Pouch Cove, she held my attention long enough to become a painting.

Chair of Contemplation photo – Brandy Saturley in her Vancouver Island studio.

February 9, 2024

Painting Quidi Vidi Newfoundland

Artist Process, New Paintings

A Place Called Quidi Vidi – Painting Newfoundland

With Newfoundland still fresh in my thoughts, I’ve been revisiting the images captured during my inspiring month at Pouch Cove Foundation. While I usually refrain from translating photographs into full-fledged paintings, there was something captivating about my first weekend in Newfoundland, particularly our visit to the enchanting Quidi Vidi Brewery nestled in the equally charming neighborhood of Quidi Vidi. This painting inspired by Quidi Vidi Newfoundland is an ode to a place I now hold dear.

Quidi Vidi Harbour Newfoundland – photo: Brandy Saturley

Pronunciations of “Quidi Vidi” vary among the locals, with “Kiddy Vidi” being the most common rendition. One delightful theory suggests that the name originated from a beloved cat named Vidi. Situated adjacent to Quidi Vidi Lake, where the Royal St. John’s Regatta takes place every first Wednesday in August (weather permitting), the village is graced by the renowned “Gut” harbor and houses the Quidi Vidi Battery Provincial Historic Site, along with various small businesses.

Quidi Vidi Newfoundland – photo: Brandy Saturley

Despite the limited time I had to explore this distinctive fishing village, I couldn’t help but absorb the humor and pride permeating the air. The photograph I took encapsulates much of what I felt about Quidi Vidi—its uniqueness, charm, and a touch of disheveled authenticity.

Translating this sentiment into a painting became a personal mission. I took my photograph and honed in on simplifying its elements, unveiling the story embedded within. The result is a vibrant portrayal, rendered in oils, acrylics, and neon gouache on a beautiful wood panel. The choice of materials aimed to replicate the lively palette of painted wood structures and boats that define the visual tapestry of Newfoundland.

In essence, my painting seeks to encapsulate Quidi Vidi not just as a picturesque locale but as a living art installation, a testament to the rich culture of Newfoundland. The colors, the textures, and the subtle chaos of the village come together to create a piece that mirrors the essence of this captivating corner of the world.

Quidi on the Vidi – Oil and Acrylic on Wood Panel 24 x 18 x 1.5 in 2024, Brandy Saturley

You can find more details about this painting here.

January 18, 2024

Significance of Art

New Paintings

Capturing the Zeitgeist: The Significance of Art in Today’s World

In a world pulsating with the rhythms of life, artists emerge as living diving rods—super-sensitive beings attuned to the currents of nature and the symphony of their surroundings. Like sponges, we absorb the essence of our existence, wringing it out through our chosen mediums. For me, creating art is a reflection of my daily journey as a human on this vast canvas we call Earth. It’s a testament to the times we live in—a visual dialogue with the world. Art holds profound significance in today’s world.

Last year, my creative journey manifested in over twenty new original paintings, predominantly sprawling canvases that bore witness to my travels across Canada and reflections on the global landscape. Amidst the chaos, I felt an overwhelming need to embrace the world with a metaphorical hug, and so my art became the conduit for that embrace. I don’t dictate what I paint; I let the creative currents guide me. While I don’t create studies, I delve into my digital catalogue, a treasure trove of captured imagery from my experiences, reworking them into blueprints for future visual stories on canvas.

My artistic journey encompasses a spectrum of mediums—painting, drawing, photography, digital video, and performance. While the paintings stand as the final products, every facet of my creative process becomes art in itself. It’s a holistic approach, where the act of creation becomes as significant as the creation itself.

In 2023, my focus centered on my home studio in Vancouver Island, where I continued my exploration of the polar bear king’s journey. However, the world beckoned my attention to the unfolding events in Ukraine and the devastating fires in Yellowknife, NWT, and Lahaina, Hawaii. From Banff, Alberta, where I delivered my polar bear king paintings to Willock & Sax, to an artist residency in Pouch Cove, Newfoundland, my year unfolded as a canvas of diverse experiences.

The culmination of 2023 saw me crafting paintings inspired by Newfoundland, celebrating the indomitable spirit of its people and echoing the resilience of individuals worldwide fighting noble battles. Experimenting with the juxtaposition of oil paint and acrylics, a departure from my usual acrylics and gouache, these two final paintings of the year became vivid pop art expressions of determination.

As we step into 2024, these paintings stand as a sign of the times, capturing the zeitgeist and heralding a new chapter in my artistic journey. Each stroke, each color, is a brushstroke in the grand blueprint of our shared human experience—a visual testimony to the spirit that defines us in this ever-evolving world.

IDOM – 24×18 inches, oil and acrylic on wood panel, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

Portrait of the indomitable Canadian spirit. A woman wrapped in a scarlet red point blanket against a backdrop of Rocky Mountains. Pop art influences and Canadian symbolism throughout.

Rage On – 24×18 inches, oil and acrylic on wood panel, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

Rage on and rage against the dying of the light. A symbolic painting of a fist rising from a mountainous landscape. Wrist wrapped in a multicolor fabric scarf, the sun and starry blue sky behind. Oil and acrylic on wood panel.

Discover more original paintings by contemporary Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley.

January 3, 2024

Newfoundland Paintings

Artist Residency, New Paintings

Adventures in Newfoundland: A Journey through Three Paintings

Embarking on an art residency in Newfoundland, I found myself immersed in a landscape and culture vastly different from my westernmost home on Vancouver Island. In the heart of Pouch Cove, Newfoundland, invited by the Pouch Cove Foundation and James Baird Gallery, I embraced the rugged beauty of this remote hamlet on the East Coast Trail. Culminating in three paintings about Newfoundland.

Pouch Cove, Newfoundland panorama by Brandy Saturley

Exploring Newfoundland’s Unique Landscape: Three Paintings

Throughout October 2023, my days were filled with hikes, encounters with cod, and the creation of art inspired by the unique character of ‘The Rock.’ The resulting paintings, born from acrylic paint and gouache, reflect the island’s towering geography, the iconic Sou’Wester hats of cod fishermen, the Cape Bonavista lighthouse, vibrantly colored fishermen sheds, the dynamic ocean, seagulls, and the ever-changing light of the expansive skies.

Pouch Cove Foundation, studio G, Brandy Saturley

Contrasts with Vancouver Island:

As a West Coast Canadian Artist staying on the Easternmost edge of Canada, I couldn’t help but draw comparisons with my home on Vancouver Island. While both islands exist as distinct biospheres, Newfoundland’s wild, wind-swept expanses contrast sharply with the mild, beach-strewn beauty of Vancouver Island. The differences in size, climate, and flora contribute to their individual charms, each offering a unique experience.

Tinkers Point Path, East Coast Trail, Newfoundland – Brandy Saturley

Natural Wonders of Newfoundland:

The windiest points in North America reside in Newfoundland, contributing to a fierce winter. The landscape, reminiscent of Canada’s prairies, reveals vast flat expanses with stubby trees and thick forests. The rugged cliffsides, golden junipers, and vibrant hues of the ocean near the shoreline create a visual feast. The beaches, adorned with rocks in every conceivable color and texture, provide a unique canvas for exploration.

Rocks in Newfoundland – Brandy Saturley

Cultural Identities:

Despite their shared insularity, Newfoundland and Vancouver Island fiercely guard their distinct identities. While Newfoundland is deeply Irish, Vancouver Island leans towards its British roots. Indigenous culture thrives on Vancouver Island, whereas Newfoundland, tragically, saw its Indigenous heritage wiped out.

Culinary Contrasts:

From the culinary perspective, Newfoundland’s traditional fare revolves around cod and potatoes, with dressing, gravy, and chips forming their unique take on poutine. Vancouver Island, on the other hand, boasts Fanny Bay oysters, locally grown greens, and a rich variety of vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting a diverse and health-conscious culinary scene.

Architectural Character:

Homes in Newfoundland, square or rectangular with vivid colors, reflect a sense of time standing still. In contrast, Vancouver Island’s residences showcase diverse styles, influenced by natural elements such as cedar, moss, rock, and beach aesthetics.

The Battery, St. John’s Newfoundland – Brandy Saturley

A Love Letter to Newfoundland through three paintings

In the paintings born of my Newfoundland adventures, I aimed to capture the vivid palettes and dreamlike ambiance of this timeless place. The rhythms of traditional Newfoundland music, from jigs and reels to artists like Alan Doyle and Great Big Sea, infused my studio, creating what I affectionately call my ‘love letter to Newfoundland.

The ROCK and ROLL

The Rock and Roll, 56×36, acrylic and gouache on canvas, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

Of Whiskey Jigs and Floating Floors

Of Whiskey Jigs and Floating Floors, 48×36, acrylic on canvas, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

I Lost my Sou’Wester in Pouch Cove

I Lost my Sou’Wester in Pouch Cove, 64×28, acrylic on canvas, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

As my residency in Newfoundland concludes, I carry with me not only three new paintings but a deep appreciation for the distinct beauty, culture, and identity that define ‘The Rock.’ It’s an experience that has enriched my artistic perspective and left an indelible mark on my creative journey.

Brandy Saturley Studio – Victoria BC Canada

December 13, 2023

Peace Love Canada

Canadian Pop Art, New Paintings

Painting Peace, Love, and Canada

The inspiration for this painting, Peace, Love, Canada, was sparked by the rise of #ICONICCANUCK on social media. Back in 2013, I launched my Instagram page just before embarking on my inaugural solo exhibition at Edmonton’s Gallery A, which was then part of Visual Arts Alberta. The hashtag #ICONICCANUCK ignited a frenzy of engagement with my Canadian-themed artworks. Amid the whirlwind of activity, I found little time to engage in lengthy written responses to comments. Instead, I opted to communicate through imagery, a mode of expression that resonates deeply with my artistic sensibilities.

Chair of Contemplation, September 2023, Brandy Saturley

“Take everything as it comes; the wave passes, deal with the next one. ~ Tom Thomson

In response, I would respond using three distinct emojis: the iconic peace symbol fingers, a vibrant red heart, and the unmistakable Canadian flag. These visual responses allowed me to convey my sentiments succinctly and artistically. The idea of transforming these emojis into a tangible painting had been brewing in my mind for quite some time. Now, as I prepare to embark on a journey to a painting residency in Newfoundland, I find myself reflecting on the extensive travels I’ve undertaken across this magnificent country over the past decade, as well as drawing inspiration from the legendary landscape painter Tom Thomson.

Painted in acrylics and gouache on canvas, this distinctively ‘Canadian pop art style’ painting was created using hard edged strokes, layering of cobalt, ultramarine and Payne’s grey with hints of cobalt violet, blue-green and hints of a peach toned linen. The piece was painted to appear as if the linen canvas below is showing through and the edges unfinished, when in fact it is just the way the paint has been applied.

Drawing upon the essence of Tom Thomson’s masterpiece, ‘Summer Day,’ I present to you ‘Peace, Love, Canada.’

Peace, Love, Canada – original acrylic painting on canvas, 2023, Brandy Saturley

September 26, 2023

Healing Power of Art

Artist Process, New Paintings

The Power of Sentiment – The Healing Power of Art

Recently, the heartbreaking news of devastating summer fires in two places I hold dear, Lahaina, Maui, and Yellowknife, NT, has profoundly affected me, influencing my current body of work centered around the journey of a Polar Bear King. The undeniable healing power of art has been extensively documented and discussed. Art has the remarkable ability to tap into the inherent healing potential within each of us, fostering a sense of communal connection.

When we stand before a work of art, we become linked not only to the artist but also to others who have shared in this experience. This connection, whether to ourselves or to fellow art enthusiasts, lies at the heart of the art-and-healing nexus. Healing, much like art, is not a static destination with a prescribed timetable or endpoint; rather, it’s a meandering path with numerous potential avenues. ‘Art can harness the healing power within each of us and help bring us into community with one another.’ MoMA

Just as every encounter with a cherished piece of art offers fresh insights and emotions, the healing process is a dynamic journey, with opportunities branching out in myriad directions.

A short story and two new Polar Bear King paintings.

The Chair of Contemplation – painting, installation and photography by Brandy Saturley

A Tale of the Polar Bear King in Lahaina and Yellowknife

In the lands of Lahaina and Yellowknife so grand,
Where summer wildfires scorched both sea and land,
A tale unfolds of two paintings so rare,
Of a Polar Bear King, on an expedition, solitaire.

They hung in a gallery, dusty and old,
Their frames chipped and tarnished, or so I’ve been told.
One showed the bear, resting under a great Banyan, with a crown of Lei on his head,
The other, in the town of Yellowknife, where around the town, wildfires had spread.

Under the Banyan Tree, 24×36 inches, acrylic and gouache on canvas, 2023

One sunny day, as the sun took its rest,
The paintings came to life, yes, you read that jest!
With a shimmer and a shake, they broke from their frames,
The Polar Bear King leading their colorful games.

Through swirling vortex, they journeyed so bright,
From Lahaina to Yellowknife, day and night.
They soared through the skies, o’er mountains and plains,
Healing the wounds of the fire’s fiery reigns.

In Lahaina, the first, where the palm trees did sway,
They brought rain and cool breezes to chase heat away.
The people rejoiced, their spirits set free,
As the paintings worked magic, for all eyes to see.

Then on to Yellowknife, where winter was near,
The Polar Bear King brought the Northern Lights clear.
They danced in the sky, a colorful delight,
Chasing away darkness and the cold of the night.

Defender of The North, 24×36, acrylic and gouache on canvas, 2023

The paintings, they whispered tales of hope and of grace,
Of a world that’s in need of a loving embrace.
With a twinkle and gleam, they returned to their place,
In the gallery, dusty, with a smile on their face.

The Polar Bear King and the healing they’d brought,
In Lahaina and Yellowknife, their wonders were sought.
Now their story is told, a tale to inspire,
Of two paintings’ journey, set the world to inquire.

Healing Power of Art – sending love to the world.

With these paintings I am sending a beautiful bubble of protection, healing and love to the peoples of Lahaina and Yellowknife. See all the Polar Bear King Paintings here.

Chair of Contemplation August 2023, Brandy Saturley studio, Vancouver Island, BC

September 1, 2023

21st Polar Bear Painting

New Paintings

The Journey of the Polar Bear King Continues: Unveiling the 21st Polar Bear Painting

As our world evolves amidst the warming climate and melting ice, the polar bear, a majestic symbol of this changing landscape, has captivated my attention for several years. This year, more than ever before, I find myself drawn to the allure of this beautiful beast draped in a snowy white cape. My artistic journey intertwines with that of the polar bear, resulting in the completion of my 21st painting, a testament to our ongoing exploration together.

Focused on the Arctic realms, my new painting narrates a captivating story that encompasses landscapes, nature, and the people of this pristine region.

The Chair of Contemplation: finishing the 21st polar bear painting

A New Narrative: Monarch of the Arctic Realms

This contemporary masterpiece unveils a majestic mountain landscape, adorned with ethereal brushstroke clouds and glistening icy waters, reflecting the ever-changing Arctic sky. At the forefront of this scene stands a magnificent polar bear, its regal presence subtly emphasized by the mystical outline of a crown hovering above its angular head. A ptarmigan bird perched atop this majestic creature adds a touch of whimsy, symbolizing the delicate balance within the Arctic ecosystem.

Beneath the polar bear, a young girl draped in vibrant red captures our attention. She finds solace amidst the frigid beauty of the Arctic, concealing herself behind a bouquet of vivid purple saxifrage, a stark contrast to the surrounding icy palette. The landscape, in a state of flux, portrays the undeniable impact of the changing world around us.

The mountains, rendered with mesmerizing simplicity, stand as bold blocks of color and dynamic contrasting stripes. This stunning piece is skillfully painted on raw cotton duck canvas, a deliberate choice that softens the artist’s edges while enhancing the allure of pop art-inspired outlines. The canvas, infused with fluid acrylics, creates a captivating effect, where colors flow into the very fabric of the artwork, imbuing it with a sense of depth and fluidity.

This painting tells a captivating narrative, serving as a profound commentary on the evolving Arctic, showcased on a grand canvas that commands attention. Its beauty and storytelling prowess elevate it to the status of a true masterpiece, inviting viewers to contemplate the delicate balance of nature and humanity within this ever-changing landscape.

As the polar bear’s presence continues to permeate my artistic vision, I’m moving beyond the canvas. To further develop this series, I’ve started incorporating short stories into my work, with the future creation of sculptures in mind.

Monarch of The Arctic Realms acrylic and gouache on canvas 48 x 48 x 1.5 in (121.92 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley 2023

The Details: the 21st Polar Bear Painting

See more images of this new contemporary polar bear painting by Brandy Saturley.

“I AM The Polar Bear, and The Polar Bear is ME.”

This year, I’ve produced 12 new paintings featuring this magnificent white bear, often adorned with a crown of gold leaf. One of my polar bear paintings can be found on the Art in Nature Trail in Banff, Canada, and 7 smaller works are exhibited in the Willock & Sax Gallery in downtown Banff, appropriately located on Bear Street.

August 11, 2023

Painting of Ukrainian Dancers

New Paintings

The Art of Shumka – A Portrait Painting about Ukrainian Dancers

An Edmonton, Alberta collector of my paintings with Ukrainian Canadian roots sends me photos from time to time. Most recently she has been sending me joyful photos of her daughters’ Ukrainian dance group. The group is known as’ ‘Ukrainian Shumka Dancers’ and are the most widely known Ukrainian dance performers in Canada. This is where the story of my most recent painting, a portrait of Ukrainian dancers, begins.

Ukrainian Shumka dance is a traditional Ukrainian folk dance that has been passed down through generations of Ukrainians. The dance is performed by both men and women, and is characterized by its lively and energetic movements, intricate footwork, and colorful costumes. Shumka dance has a rich history that dates back hundreds of years. It was originally performed as a way to celebrate important events in Ukrainian culture, such as weddings, harvest festivals, and religious holidays. Over time, the dance evolved and became more stylized, with various regional variations emerging throughout Ukraine.

Today, shumka dance is still performed at cultural events, festivals, and competitions throughout Ukraine and around the world. It has become an important symbol of Ukrainian identity and heritage, and is cherished by Ukrainians both at home and abroad. One of the defining characteristics of shumka dance is its complex footwork. Dancers wear special shoes with wooden or leather soles that allow them to produce a variety of percussive sounds as they move across the dance floor. The footwork is often fast and intricate, and requires a great deal of skill and practice to master.

In addition to the footwork, shumka dance is also known for its expressive arm and hand movements. Dancers often use their arms and hands to convey emotions and tell stories through their movements, adding an extra layer of meaning and depth to the dance. Finally, the costumes worn by shumka dancers are another important aspect of the dance. Traditional costumes feature bright colors and intricate embroidery, and are often decorated with beads, sequins, and other embellishments. These costumes help to enhance the visual impact of the dance, and also serve as a reminder of Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage.

What I decide to paint in any given time is all about my intuition. Things that are vibrating and drawing my attention, touching something within me, I am a human lighting rod. What influences the work are things seen, heard, touched and tasted. Things that pull at my heart and cause my chest to pound. Perhaps the war in Ukraine and the constant news, but also the voices of my Ukrainian mother and grandmother whispering in my ear. The texts from an art collector who radiates sunshine into the world, who proudly shares photos taken at Shumka Dance performances in Edmonton. The YouTube videos of the dancers and the upbeat polka music. The colours of the costumes and smiling faces, they radiate the essence of Ukrainian culture ad hospitality. All of these things move me, and then I receive one photo that stops me in my tracks with the note, “they came from Ukraine three weeks ago, they just keep going in Ukraine.” The photo (shown below) was radiating beauty, innocence and joy, and the colours and patterns of their cultural costumes seemed to be creating abstract landscapes of Ukraine.

Ukrainian Shumka Dancers in Edmonton, Alberta Canada – photo courtesy Crytes family.

Painting of Ukrainian Dancers

I was particularly taken with the face of the boy in the front center of the group and what his face is communicating. I chose to make him the focal point of my final painting. I used fluorescent gouache for underpainting and finishing details, the paint sets the canvas aglow. Below is a photo of the resulting portrait painting.

Spirit of Ukraine, 36×36, acrylic on canvas, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

Ukraine Strong, 40×30, acrylic on canvas, 2022 – Brandy Saturley

In my paintings of recent I am exploring the relationships between my Ukrainian family, history and influences and my modern-day artist self.

At this time in my life my parents are aging fast, and things are changing daily. My mother who was my earliest mentor in art and life, is now requiring our care. I am feeling the need to take time and connect more deeply to my cultural roots, which includes Ukrainian. My Ukrainian grandmother and grandfather immigrated to Edmonton from the Ukraine and created a restaurant business in Edmonton in the 1940’s. As I begin inheriting pieces from my Ukrainian great-grandmother and grandmother, I am discovering my Ukrainian heritage, woven with arts, crafts, symbols, and stories. I am also affected by war in Ukraine and moved by the stories of the people and the immigrants to Canada. As my career and work as a Canadian Artist continues to ascend, the depth of my work grows with renewed excitement and explorations of my Ukrainian Canadian heritage. In my paintings of recent I am exploring the relationships between my Ukrainian family, history and influences and my modern-day artist self.

Paintings about Ukrainian heritage and culture – Canadian artist Brandy Saturley studio

You can watch the behind the scenes process of making the painting on YouTube here:

In conclusion, Ukrainian shumka dance is a vibrant and energetic folk dance that has played an important role in Ukrainian culture for hundreds of years. Its complex footwork, expressive arm movements, and colorful costumes have helped to make it a beloved symbol of Ukrainian identity and heritage, both at home and abroad. I am looking forward to continuing the exploration of my Ukrainian heritage in my paintings.

Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley with her painting about Ukrainian Shumka dancers, 2023

May 1, 2023