Maximize Your Tax Benefits: Invest in Original Canadian Art for Your Business
Have you ever considered leveraging your tax refund to enrich your corporate environment? Instead of opting for conventional investments, why not explore the lasting benefits of acquiring original Canadian art from independent living artists? Original art not only fosters discussion and entertainment but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your corporate spaces, ultimately adding value to your business premises. Following are some Tax Benefits of purchasing original Canadian Art.
Golden Hour in The Heart of Canoeland, Acrylic 36 x 60 x 1.5 in (91.44 x 152.4 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley
Embrace the Opportunity to Define Your Brand:
Decorating your corporate offices with original Canadian paintings serves as more than mere decoration. It’s an opportunity to convey your brand’s ethos and warmth to clients and employees alike. Each piece of art injects a sense of taste, class, and sophistication, elevating your corporation’s image and fostering a sense of community within your workspace.
Tax Deductions Make Art Acquisition a Smart Investment:
Did you know that purchasing original Canadian art offers substantial tax benefits for your business? The Canadian government actively supports investments in Canadian artwork by offering tax incentives to businesses of all sizes. By investing in the Canadian art market, not only do you enrich your corporate environment, but you also enjoy tax deductions under the Capital Cost Allowance scheme. Consult your accountant for personalized advice on maximizing these benefits.
Saint Kanata – Acrylic 48 x 36 x 1.5 in (121.92 x 91.44 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley
Make Art Acquisition Affordable with Fine Art Financing:
Art Lease Canada provides an attractive solution for businesses looking to invest in fine art without significant upfront costs. With low-interest financing and flexible payment terms, building an impressive art collection becomes accessible to businesses of all sizes. Plus, by financing your Canadian art purchases, you can claim these expenses as tax-deductible business expenses, further enhancing your financial benefits.
Tax Benefits – Buy Original Canadian Art Because You Love It:
Beyond financial considerations, the primary motivation for investing in original Canadian art should always be personal connection and appreciation. Each artwork is a testament to the artist’s creativity and vision, resonating with your own sensibilities. By nurturing a direct relationship with the artist, you not only acquire a unique piece of art but also contribute to preserving Canada’s artistic heritage for future generations.
Monarch of The Arctic Realms – Acrylic – 48 x 48 x 1.5 in (121.92 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm) Brandy Saturley
Unlock the Benefits of Investing in Original Canadian Art:
Whether it’s paintings, sculptures, or photographs, investing in original Canadian art offers both aesthetic and financial rewards. Take advantage of the tax deductions available for business art purchases and explore financing options to make art acquisition more accessible. By infusing your corporate spaces with original Canadian art, you not only enhance your brand’s image but also contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of Canada.
Commission a custom painting for your business with Brandy Saturley
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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.
20 Contemporary Canadian Artists to Collect Right Now.
Do professional Artists collect other Artist’s work? Hell yes we do, of course we do, we were born loving Art. In addition to collecting my own work, I collect work by other artists, mostly painters and mostly Canadian. Whether gifted, traded for, bought at auction, online or in a artists gallery, I am also a collector of primarily Canadian Artists. Here is a list of twenty Canadian Artists, I would put in my collection right now!
Terry McCue is an Ojibway artist from the Curve Lake First Nation, in southeastern Ontario. I love his use of colour and subject matter. Bold and graphically pleasing contemporary Indigenous artworks. Canada House Gallery, Banff, Alberta Canada
Marsha Schuld is a multi-media artist working out of her studio in southern Saskatchewan. I love her clay crows and owls as well as her distinctive embroidery pieces. She received a second to none education from the skilled tutors at the Royal School of Needlework (RSN). The result is a proudly earned Certification with Merit from the people who embroider the Queen’s coronation robes. Willock & Sax, Banff Alberta Canada
Luther Pokrant his illustration work is thematic or historical, often of other artists or their work, or the creative process itself. I love his use of colour, his dreamy subject matter and palettes and his visual storytelling. Mayberry Fine Art, Winnipeg
Diana Thorneycroft is a Winnipeg artist and photographer who became known for her installation photographs and re-creations of Group of Seven paintings. She brings humour to the socio-political commentary and stories she is weaving through her detailed photographs. Michael Gibson Gallery, London Ontario
Winnie Truong is a Toronto artist working with drawing and animation to explore ideas of identity, feminism, and fantasy and finding its connections and transgressions in the natural world. I love her drawings, they are precise designs with feminine treasures and stories held within. Patel Brown Gallery, Toronto Canada
Mike Hansen is a senior Canadian artist who uses sound and noise to develop artworks in various mediums. He is well known as an established colourist painter, sound artist and experimental musician. His body of work explores the visualization of sound and noise. While I love his large abstract paintings of colour and form, I was quite intrigued by his upholstered pieces that I slept under at the Pouch Cove residency in Newfoundland. James Baird Gallery, Newfoundland
Andrew Valko is a well-known Canadian Hyper-Realist whose paintings explore the psychological tension caused by observation. Layered with open-ended ambiguity, his compositions subtly weave narratives that imply that there is much more than meets the eye. The works are set in neon-lit motels, drive-in theatres and parking lots; it is in these transient locations that Valko captures intense moments that tell an unfinished story. Louis K. Meisel Gallery, NYC
Daren Whalen more often the subject of his paintings are people. Intensely detailed and beautiful figurative paintings that tell stories of Newfoundland. Emma Butler Gallery, Newfoundland, Canada
Kent Monkman is an interdisciplinary Cree visual artist. A member of Fisher River Cree Nation in Treaty 5 Territory (Manitoba), he lives and works in New York City and Toronto. Gender fluid, Indigenous commentaries on colonialism, realistic visual stories fused with fantasy and magic. Artists’ website.
Kim Dorland’s practice reflects a fascination with the enigmatic Canadian landscape as it comes into contact with contemporary urban experience. The psychological atmosphere represented by Dorland is confrontational and hallucinatory, disrupting conventional ideas that the natural world is a place of solace and contemplation. His paintings fascinate me and I am drawn to the sometimes fluorescent palettes and dark imagery. Another painter that tells visual stories in his work. Angell Gallery, Toronto Canada
Karel Funk lives and works in Winnipeg, Canada. Contemporary urbanism, technical figurative paintings, backs of hoodies, jackets and hats, they draw you into his paintings. The minimalism and cool tones add to the mystery of who might be wearing those clothes. Monte Clark Gallery, Vancouver BC
David Pirrie – obsessed with mountain’s, this painter offers a contemporary pop art style take on these marvelous beauties. Meticulously rendered and fused with vivid colours and distinctive patterns. Ian Tan Gallery, Vancouver BC
Eric Louie is a Vancouver-based painter whose vibrant compositions are being recognized by numerous collectors both public and private. His signature metallic, shimmering forms, achieved via many thin layers of luminescent glazes, are central to the virtual worlds he creates. These abstract paintings are somewhat transcendental in nature. They are metallic meditations on the rythyms of nature. Bau-Xi Gallery, Toronto Ontario
Shawn Serfas – thick and juicy, vivid and dimensional, buttery and sculptural, his abstracts are a treat to delve into. – Sopa Fine Arts, Kelowna BC
Catherine Blackburn – contemporary Indigenous beadwork and living sculptures. Artist website.
Curtis Cutshaw – textual abstracts of sculptural collage, makes me want to stare for hours and try and find the words within. Kostiuk Gallery, Vancouver BC
Luke Ramsay – magical landscapes and west coast FERRY tales of form and pastel palettes Madrona Gallery, Victoria BC
Angela Grossman – human figures and ephemeral layers of letters, photographs, addresses, envelopes, postage and cancellation marks. Herringer Kiss Gallery Calgary, AB
Steve Driscoll – creates fine art using unorthodox materials. I find his abstract searing landscapes Hockney-esque and glossy. – Peter Robertson Gallery, Edmonton, Canada
Bob Kebic – Group Of Seven-esque, textural and vivid abstract landscapes. They male you feel alive and joyful. They make you smile every time you see them. Mayberry Fine Art, Winnipeg, Canada
From hyper-realism, to figurative, narrative, abstract, landscape and fine embroidery craft, these are twenty artworks by contemporary Canadian artists I would put in my collection right now.
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Breaking the Myth: Mental Illness and Creativity Unraveled
The widely held belief that mental illness and creativity are inextricably linked has become a romanticized notion ingrained in our collective consciousness. However, it’s crucial to dispel this myth from the outset: mental illness is neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition for creativity. As we explore this intriguing topic, we uncover the nuances that challenge this prevailing belief and shed light on the complex relationship between mental health and creative expression.
“There is only one difference between a madman and me. I am not mad.” —Salvador Dali
Exploring the Connection:
While researchers emphasize that mental illness doesn’t guarantee creativity, recent findings reveal intriguing patterns. Siblings of individuals with autism and first-degree relatives of those with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anorexia nervosa are disproportionately represented in creative professions. This raises questions about the potential inheritance of traits conducive to creativity while avoiding the debilitating aspects of mental illness.
Personal Reflection:
Growing up as the eldest child in a family where one parent navigated artistic pursuits and mental health challenges, I witnessed firsthand the impact of these dynamics. The global pandemic further brought to light the prevalence of less debilitating forms of mental illness, particularly affecting teenagers facing disruptions in their crucial stages of growth and learning.
Dreaming Under Northern Lights, 36×36 acrylic on canvas, 2022 – Brandy Saturley
Silver Linings: Mental Health and Creativity
A big positive of this time was it brought to light many things, all at once, and got us all talking, sharing, and expressing ourselves. As we continue to share and learn about what makes us all tick, we continue to evolve as humans living together on this planet. I too learned that I’m not impervious to the effects of stress and anxiety, which ultimately landed me burned out in a hospital bed for a month during the pandemic, it was quite the experience and something that I will write about at some point, but for now I’ll just say, it was another reminder from the universe to ‘slow down’ and take care.
Brandy Saturley in her studio at Royal College of Art, London, England, 2019
Today, I am looking back at a short documentary that was filmed just months before the pandemic broke out around the world. It is a cool trip back to a moment in time when I was just coming off a month in London, England at the Royal College of Art, my confidence was at an all-time high and I was ready to take on this next chapter of my career as a professional Artist.
Now having experienced what is one of the most prolific periods of my career, which has resulted in tremendous growth both personally and professionally. It is a period where ‘imposter syndrome’ has now largely disappeared and I am open to everything in a way I have never been before. I am also enjoying the ride much more, not putting the same pressures on myself, though my expectations will always be ‘A-type personality high’.
I want to share with you this short documentary film (about 25 minutes) by the very talented Canadian filmmaker, Randy Frykas. Although filmed at the end of 2019, this new version includes an epilogue updated for 2024.
In embracing the complexities of mental health and creativity, we challenge stereotypes and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of our lives, let us approach challenges with resilience and, in the words of my chiropractor, “Just, Keep, Moving”.
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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
Have you ever wondered where a painting begins for an Artist? Ideas come from all over the place, and filter through our aural and visual channels as well as through taste and touch. For me, the idea comes long before my brush ever hits the canvas and the creative process that leads to a finished painting, from inception of an idea to fruition, can be immediate, but more often ruminates and grows for a long time before taking flight.
Saturley at work on the beaches in Chance Cove, Newfoundland – photo: Penny Rogers
This first painting of 2024 has me coming off an October experience making paintings in Newfoundland. While I was in Newfoundland I captured thousands of photos and videos of my days in and outside of the studio, this is where ideas begin for me, in capturing the details of the experiences I am having through the medium of photography.
My paintings are often a compilation of ideas, objects and moments, all collaged into one visual story, which I then render on the canvas and in this case a lovely wood panel. The beauty of painting on wood panel is the grain and texture and softness of the surface. Rather than the weave of a canvas and microscopic bumps it creates, wood panel is smooth and flat and without texture, unless you paint on un-primed raw panel and let the wood become saturated with an underpainting of neon gouache, which is what I have been experimenting with lately. It’s chalky, even pastel-like, but with the ease of paint on brush. I love the softness and the grain.
Ferry to Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada – photo: Brandy Saturley
Ferry rides, a common thread in my life as a Vancouver Islander and a newfound ‘Come From Away’ to Newfoundland, serve as a timeless muse. ‘Island Time’ is a homage to the ebb and flow of these journeys, where every ferry ride unfolds a new chapter waiting to be captured. The photos that shaped this piece encapsulate the essence of ‘Island Time,’ a term resonating with the rhythm of nature, where the mainland’s hurried pace surrenders to the tranquil embrace of a more unhurried existence.
Geological wonders of Newfoundland, Canada – photo: Brandy Saturley
The Creative Process – I’m on Island Time
The photos above, influenced this new piece titled, ‘Island Time’ a term that we use here often as the mainland moves at a much faster pace, and we like to enjoy the flow of nature.
Brandy Saturley working in her studio on Vancouver Island, January 2024
This painting on wood panel captures a moment of serene introspection as a woman stands by a window on a ferry, gazing out into the vast expanse of the ocean. The soft hues of the sunset cast a warm glow on her face, creating a contemplative atmosphere. In a surreal twist, a mesmerizing rock hovers gracefully above her head, defying gravity. The juxtaposition of the ordinary scene with the fantastical element evokes a sense of timelessness and mystery. This painting invites viewers to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the sea journey and embrace the surreal beauty of the moment, where the ordinary meets the extraordinary.
Island Time – original acrylic and oil painting on wood panel, 2024 – Brandy Saturley
Approaching the canvas of 2024, we stand at the threshold of a year brimming with vibrant hues and compelling narratives. It’s a blank canvas of possibilities, a fresh chapter waiting to unfold—a sentiment shared by many as they approach the new year. Personally, I find myself standing in my studio surrounded by endless opportunities to create something new, filled with eagerness to paint it with the kaleidoscope of colors that life has to offer. As I look back at 2023, I see the paradigm shift that has occurred and continues to drive me into this new year. This is my 2023 in Art Review, month by month.
In my perspective, the allure isn’t confined to the strokes of art alone; it extends to the numbers that intricately weave a subtle story of meaning. Consider this beautiful 2024 – when its digits dance together, they harmonize into the number eight, a symbol of auspiciousness and completeness. Isn’t it remarkable? Numerology, with its enchanting twos, fours, and the timeless circle of zero, occupies a special place in my heart. These figures, to me, are not merely mathematical; they are promises of positivity and gateways to the potential that this year may unfold.
Lucky Number 8 in 2024
As I glance into the rear-view mirror, reflecting on the journey through the business of art during 2023, the mirror reveals nearly thirty new paintings. It tells a tale of exploration, as I travelled to Vancouver, Banff, and Newfoundland, not only to showcase and deliver my art but also to immerse myself in the diverse landscapes that inspire my paintings.
Brandy Saturley working on an oil painting in her studio.
Being a professional artist in Canada is a perpetual adventure, marked by new connections forged and opportunities that materialize on the horizon. However, growth also entails leaving some relationships behind, a necessary step as I continue to surge forward in my career. Let me share with you the highlights of this transformative year, one I’ve come to name ‘Paradigm Shift,’ a testament to the profound changes that unfolded in every stroke, connection, exhibition, and journey undertaken. Welcome to the vivid canvas of my 2023 – a year that exceeded expectations and set the stage for the next chapter in my professional art career.
2023 in Art Review – a year of shifting and rolling with the times
January
The first two paintings created in any year (I like to paint two at a time) are celebratory and set the tone for the year ahead. In 2023 I began with paintings of skaters on outdoor ponds.
Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley with her painting, Glide Away. January 2023
February
The month began with a group exhibition in Banff, Canada with my Alberta dealer, Willock & Sax. I rounded out the month with two very large paintings, one portrait depicting our future consciousness in Canada and one depicting a conversation with a polar bear underwater.
The Conversation, 48×48 inches, acrylic, gouache and gold leaf on canvas, 2023 Brandy Saturley
March
On the verge of Spring weather here on the west coast I found support for the work I created during my Banff Centre residency with a featured article in Vancouver Island Arts Magazine. New paintings were flowing with an annual self-portrait about me and Lawren Harris in the works.
I launched a revolutionary 3D virtual exhibition of my work celebrating Northern scenes, Aurora Stories launched online, to a worldwide audience. The show was visited by cities in Canada, the USA, UK and art centres such as Basel, Switzerland, Berlin, the silicon valley. Grand Cayman and Dubai also came to see what was hanging in the virtual gallery. Thank you for visiting. There were new paintings honouring my Ukrainian Canadian heritage and a trip to walk the beautiful tulip fields of Chilliwack near Vancouver BC.
Paintings inspired by Ukraine and Ukrainian Canadian roots. Brandy Saturley studio, Victoria BC.
May
In May Britain was crowning a new King Charles, and the world was churning. My trip to the tulip festival and my UK roots were flowing into my work as I created two still life paintings of tulips encircled by a variety of tartans.
Tulips and Tartans paintings by Brandy Saturley, 2023.
Invited by Canadian Art Today, I sat down for an interview by Zoom from my studio here in North Saanich on Vancouver Island. With over an hour of material the interview is available on YouTube as well as an Apple podcast.
Canadian Art Today interview with Brandy Saturley and host Paul Constable for Artists in Canada.
New Brunswick school re-creates paintings by Canadian Artist, Brandy Saturley, 2023
This year I have been approached by arts educators across Canada, and it is wonderful to know that my work is being embraced by the next generation! Sending a big ‘Bravo!’ to these talented young artists. I painted a commissioned work for the Art in Nature Trail in Banff and also created a number of small polar bear paintings for my gallery in Banff.
Arctic Monarch – original acrylic and gouache painting on wood cookie, 2023, Brandy Saturley
The Polar Bear King in Banff, Canada. – Brandy Saturley
August
Two Toronto Magazines, the Toronto University produced Hart House Review and the visual and performing arts publication, smART Magazine published many of my works, painting and self-photography.
Brandy Saturley featured in smART Magazine – Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity
With the rising gas prices and an aging JEEP we traded in our rugged ride for a quiet Tesla, complete with new decals! Now you may see me coming, but you certainly will not hear my approach.
The Art of Brandy Saturley Tesla Y in front of mural by Jeff King, Victoria BC Canada
I also supported my original hometown of Sooke BC with a painting for their annual Sooke Fine Arts show, now celebrating 38 years.
Swinging into the Weekend at the Sooke Fine Arts show 2023. – Brandy Saturley
September
Heading into the glorious season of Autumn and all those beautiful colors, we were contending with a year of wildfires and hot temperatures and I couldn’t help but want to send good vibes to the people of Lahaina, Hawaii and Yellowknife, NWT. I sent the Polar Bear King to visit these communities and heal them, through two new paintings.
Guardian of the Arctic Realm, 2023, Brandy Saturley
I was also in preparations for my month long residency with the Pouch Cove Foundation in Newfoundland. I made the decision to pull my work from my dealer in Whistler, Adele Campbell Fine Art, after 2.5 years with this dealer it was time for me to move on and continue to push my market across Canada and into the US and European markets. I painted a little ‘Peace, Love, Canada’ before packing and hopping on the plane. Looking forward to a month creating on the easternmost coast of North America.
Peace, Love, Canada – 2023, Brandy Saturley
October
This month was all about an invitational artist residency in Pouch Cove, Newfoundland. One month to inhale all Newfoundland has to offer and spill it out onto three large canvasses, and capture it through my artist lens. A remarkable experience offering this west coast artist the opportunity to dip her toes in the Atlantic and Pacific. I produced new original paintings, writing, poetry, photographs and digital videos, which continue to come together in films posted to YouTube. A deeply holistic approach and record of my art making process from inception to presentation.
November
Returning home after a month away at year end means hitting the home-ground running! Production and printing of my annual art magazine, holiday mail out to clients and end of year shipments. I joined Mastrius as a Master Artist mentor and began promoting and preparing for a mentorship group I would be leading.
I stretched and finished my rolled paintings from Newfoundland and I shipped a painting back to James Baird Gallery. As a result of the residency you can now find my work available on ARTSY through James Baird Gallery.
Follow Brandy Saturley on ARTSY
December
I was invited to join the jury panel for the Canada International Art Competition in Toronto, and as I worked to wrap up my year I finished my final two paintings for 2023.
Brandy Saturley studio, North Saanich, BC CANADA – December 2023
Thank you for being part of my year! It’s 2024, let’s go!
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Engaging Faces: Celebrating 10 Years with The People of Canada Portrait Project
In 2014, I began a new body of work (series of paintings) The People of Canada Portrait Project, and fast-forward to 2020, we marked the culmination with a groundbreaking 3D virtual exhibition that made waves during the pandemic. As we hit the remarkable 10-year milestone in 2024, I can’t help but extend a heartfelt ‘Thank You’ to the bold souls across Canada, engaging with me in this artistic journey.
The People of Canada Portrait Project. 2014-2020
Out of a myriad of submitted photos, I handpicked twenty, transforming them into figurative landscape paintings that encapsulate the essence of being Canadian. The subjects, captured in selfies with someone significant in their lives, underwent a brief interview process. Twenty questions unearthed the unique nuances of their relationships, thoughts on Canadian identity, and cultural traditions, which I then wove into the iconic Canadian landscapes that became the backdrop for their portraits.
Vimy Jam – painting by Brandy Saturley, 2018
Over six years, amidst the whirlwind of developing my career as a full-time visual artist, this became a passion project – fully funded by yours truly. While online support through blogs, notably from CBC, was abundant, I never sought or received a grant. Unexpectedly, the portraits began to find homes with the very people who inspired them. Some even received prints as a token of gratitude for promoting the project.
Canadien’s Gothic – This painting was exhibited in Sherwood Park Alberta at Gallery @501 and won a People’s Choice award, Summer 2014.
Reflecting on this journey, I invite you to explore the intimate interviews and portraits on our project website, peopleofcanada.ca. Throughout this period, I navigated a personal battle with cervical cancer, undergoing surgery and recovery. Although it posed a detour, it never derailed my commitment to both my career and this project.
Futurebrights – by Brandy Saturley, 2014
In 2016, I embarked on a self-funded journey, crisscrossing the country from Yellowknife to Ottawa, with stops in Toronto and Montreal in between, leaving pieces of my story in every city. Some knew of my health challenges, while others didn’t, yet I pressed on, fueled by passion and determination. In 2017, I was contracted to exhibit my work in retrospective art exhibitions, and I took my art on the road, showcasing in solo gallery shows across Alberta. Most notably a 30 painting show in Sherwood Park, Alberta at Strathcona County Gallery @501 and a smaller 20 painting show with Okotoks Art Gallery, just outside Calgary.
Canadianisms: A Half Decade Painting Canada, 2017 solo exhibition Gallery @501 Sherwood Park, Alberta
Last year brought a transformative residency with the Pouch Cove Foundation in Newfoundland, unveiling the mysteries of the easternmost coast of North America. As 2024 unfolds, I’m eager to commemorate this journey and discover the untold stories it holds. As we step into the New Year, I’m optimistic that choosing to focus on the positives and finding that silver lining will make this year truly great. Here’s to more art, more connections, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. Happy New Year, everyone!
Brandy Saturley, Canadian Artist and People of Canada Portrait Project Creator
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.
https://www.brandysaturley.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Rage2.jpg19001412Brandy Saturleyhttps://www.brandysaturley.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/brandysaturley_logo.pngBrandy Saturley2024-01-03 10:46:482024-01-03 10:46:48Significance of Art
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.
