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Iconic Canadian Brands

Five Favourites; Iconic Canadian Brands

With the looming trade war between Canada and the USA, my fellow Canadians and I find ourselves looking inward, reflecting on the iconic brands that define our national identity. While many brands are uniquely Canadian, a select few have become synonymous with Canada, earning admiration both at home and around the world. Spanning food, alcohol, and clothing, these brands are cherished for their quality, originality, and distinctly Canadian spirit. These are five favourite iconic Canadian brands.

Hudson’s Bay Point Blankets: A Hudson’s Bay point blanket is a type of wool blanket traded by the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) in British North America, now Canada and the United States, from 1779 to present. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations in exchange for beaver pelts as an important part of the North American fur trade. The blankets continue to be sold by Canada’s Hudson’s Bay department stores and have come to hold iconic status in the country.

Westcoast Solitudes, 48×36, acrylic on canvas, 202, Brandy Saturley

Canada Goose Parka: In 1957, Polish-Jewish immigrant Sam Tick founded Metro Sportswear, the company that would later become Canada Goose. The company’s first products were wool vests, raincoats, and snowsuits. Tick’s son-in-law David Reiss joined Metro Sportswear in 1972 and introduced a down-filling machine that allowed the company to more efficiently produce winter jackets. By the late 1970s, the company was supplying parkas to police, corrections officers, park rangers, and other public sector workers under the Snow Goose brand name. It also sold designs to larger apparel manufacturers such as L.L. Bean and Eddie Bauer. Their fur-trimmed parkas with Canada Goose Arctic Program trademark became a sought after piece of clothing worldwide giving rise to their luxury brand status and birthing many knock-off brands.

Somewhere Under the Rainbow, acrylic on canvas, 36×36, 2015, Brandy Saturley

Lululemon Yoga Apparel: Lululemon Athletica Inc. was founded in 1998 as a retailer of yoga pants and other yoga wear, and has expanded to also sell athletic wear, lifestyle apparel, and accessories. Some of the company’s best known product lines include the High Rise Align Fit Mini flare leggings, Dance Studio pants, Hottie Hot shorts, Scuba hoodies, and the Define sports jacket. Lululemon has trademarked several proprietary fabrics, including Luon, Luxtreme, Nulu, Nulux, Everlux, and more. Lululemon Athletica became a Nasdaq-100 company on December 24, 2018.

LuLu View, acrylic on canvas, 24×24 by 2, 2016, Brandy Saturley

Crown Royal Whiskey: Crown Royal, originally known as Seagram’s Crown Royal, is a blended Canadian whisky brand created by Seagram and owned by Diageo since 2000. Production of Crown Royal is done at Gimli, Manitoba, while the blending and bottling of the whisky are done in a facility in Amherstburg, Ontario. The whisky was introduced in 1939 by Samuel Bronfman for the 1939 royal tour of Canada by King Geroge VI and his wife, Queen Elizabeth. The whisky was sold exclusively in Canada until the 1960s, when it was first introduced to international markets. It is the top-selling brand of Canadian whisky in the United States. Crown Royal comes in a now iconic purple felt-like bag with a gold tasseled drawstring. As children of parents who were fans of this whiskey we came to use the purple bag as a place to keep our marbles.

Crown Royal in it’s iconic purple bag with gold details.

Hawkins Cheezies: Cheezies are a brand of cheese puff snack food made and sold in Canada by W. T. Hawkins Ltd. The snack is made from extruded cornmeal covered in powdered cheddar cheese, and sold in distinctive red-and-white bags. The snack was invented after the Second World War by James Marker of Dayton, Ohio, and W. T. Hawkins. The pair were living in Chicago when they discovered a method, by trial and error, of extruding cornmeal, casting it into fingerling shapes, then deep frying it in vegetable shortening and sprinkling it with cheddar cheese. For many Canadians the only puffed cheese snack is Hawkins Cheezies, while there have been many US brands making cheesies, Hawkins come with a distinct hard crunch, aged cheddar flavour and each one a unique shape and size that you may often see for sale on EBay as perhaps resembling Jesus or many other things. Cheezies are like clouds and no 2 are alike.

Hawkins Cheezies – the only choice for Canadians

These are just five iconic Canadian brands that happen to be our favourites. Here are 10 picks for Canada’s greatest brands by Global News.

March 13, 2025

Painting Waterton Lakes Alberta

New Paintings

Summer Art Trip – Painting Waterton Lakes, Alberta

It was August 2020, a summer of cautious optimism as travel opened up after pandemic shutdowns and quarantines. I seized the chance for a road trip from Manitoba to British Columbia, a journey that promised both adventure and inspiration. One of the most memorable stops along the way was Waterton Lakes, Alberta — a hidden gem cradled by the Canadian Rocky Mountains, bordered by a serene lake, and sharing its southern edge with the United States.

View from Prince of Wales Hotel, Waterton Lakes, Alberta – photo Brandy Saturley 2020

Now, in 2025, I find myself returning to the photos and sketches from that trip, unlocking memories and moments that have quietly matured in the corners of my mind. Art has its own sense of time — ideas often take root long before they bloom on canvas. Five years after my first encounter with Waterton’s striking landscapes, the timing feels right to transform these impressions into paint. With the exciting news of joining the artist roster at Gust Gallery in Waterton Lakes, I’ve been immersed in creating a series of small paintings for my 2025 debut with the gallery.

View from Bear’s Hump – Waterton Lakes, Albera – photo Brandy Saturley 2020

Waterton Lakes is where the prairies of Alberta dramatically collide with the towering peaks of the Rockies. It’s a place of bold contrasts — clear lakes reflecting cloud-dappled skies, thundering waterfalls carving through ancient rock, rainbow-colored streams winding over vivid red stone, and fields of wildflowers dancing in the summer breeze. Despite its compact size, Waterton packs a powerful punch, drawing hikers, sightseers, geologists, and filmmakers who come to study and capture its unique and ever-changing geology.

Brandy Saturley with necklace of Black Eyed Susan’s – 2020 Waterton Lakes

During my summer visit, the landscape was alive — wildflowers painted the meadows in bright hues, and deer wandered close enough to feel like quiet companions on the trails. I hiked Bear’s Hump, where layers of sedimentary rock led to a panoramic view of the entire park. The trek to Red Rock Canyon revealed a world where glacial teal waters tumbled over iron oxide-stained rocks — a striking clash of color and texture. A boat ride across the lake brought another perspective, momentarily crossing into U.S. waters and offering a fresh view of the limestone cliffs and rugged mountains that frame the lake.

Colourful lake rocks in Waterton Lakes, Alberta – photo Brandy Saturley 2020

Beyond its daytime splendor, Waterton Lakes holds another distinction — it is an International Dark Sky Park, protecting the natural nightscape from light pollution. Designated in 2017 as part of the world’s first trans-boundary Dark Sky Park with Glacier National Park in Montana, Waterton offers a mesmerizing canvas of stars, unspoiled and boundless. Programs and thoughtful initiatives ensure that the night sky remains as breathtaking as the mountains beneath it.

Before sunrise at Red Rocks in Waterton Lakes – photo Brandy Saturley, 2020

Painting Waterton Lakes Alberta

For my debut collection at Gust Gallery, I’ve created five paintings — each capturing a distinct facet of Waterton’s charm. From the rocky lakeshore, where water meets stone in a quiet conversation, to the wildflower-strewn fields near Red Rock Canyon, each piece is a visual poem. One painting delves into the dramatic vibrancy of the red rocks, while another takes us back to the heart of Waterton town, where the human presence subtly mingles with nature’s grandeur. And the final painting celebrates the provincial flower of Alberta, the fragrant Wild Rose.

Four paintings about Waterton Lakes, Alberta by Brandy Saturley, 2025

These paintings are more than landscapes — they are cinematic snapshots of a place that left a deep imprint on my artist’s soul. Each brushstroke is a reflection of what I saw, felt, and carried home from Waterton Lakes. I am thrilled to share these works with the community and visitors through Gust Gallery, hoping they inspire others to seek their own stories within the wild and wondrous beauty of this corner of Alberta.

The Beach, acrylic on wood panel, 18×24 inches, 2025, Brandy Saturley

Summer Glow, acrylic on wood panel, 18×24 inches, 2025, Brandy Saturley

Pat’s Place, acrylic on wood panel, 18×24 inches, 2025, Brandy Saturley

Red Rocks, acrylic on wood panel, 18×24 inches, 2025, Brandy Saturley

Wild Rose Country, 24×12, acrylic on canvas, 2025, Brandy Saturley

See more paintings from this road trip across Western Canada.

Brandy Saturley in her Victoria, BC studio March 2025

March 5, 2025

Tariffs And Canadian Art

Buy Canadian, Buying Art

How Will Tariffs Affect the Buying and Selling of Canadian Art?

The impact of new tariffs imposed by both the U.S. and Canada on the contemporary Canadian art market remains uncertain. Traditionally, trade barriers like tariffs do not apply to art—in U.S. law, artwork is duty-free. However, during his first administration, Trump introduced a 25% tariff on all Chinese goods, including art, signaling that art is not always immune to economic protectionism.

While art has not yet been listed among goods subject to the new U.S. tariffs, Canada’s retaliatory tariffs already include art on its list. This raises questions about how these economic changes might influence cross-border art sales.

How Might Tariffs Affect Art Sales?

Higher prices for everyday goods often lead to reduced disposable income, potentially causing some would-be art buyers to pause their purchasing plans. This could be more pronounced in Canada, where the Canadian dollar has been declining relative to the U.S. dollar. Despite these economic pressures, it is unlikely that tariffs will greatly affect the willingness of serious collectors to buy art. Many high-net-worth individuals remain confident in their financial standing and continue to invest in art.

Simon Bentley, a Toronto-based dealer and ADAC board member, sees a silver lining in the situation: “We need Canadians to buy Canadian art and not just look to buy art by artists in the United States.” This sense of national support for homegrown talent could bolster the domestic market. Rob Cowley, president of Cowley Abbott auction house, echoes this sentiment, highlighting a growth in interest in post-war Canadian art and the company’s expanding international art department.

Lovers in a Dangerous Time (2025), Acrylic on wood panel, 18 x 24 x 1.5 in, Brandy Saturley

The Artist’s Bottom Line

For artists, the bigger concern may be the rising cost of art materials. Tariffs on supplies could force artists to absorb additional costs or adjust their selling prices to compensate. This creates a tricky balance: keeping prices competitive while maintaining the value of their work.

Who Pays the Cost of Tariffs on Art?

In most cases, the U.S. importer pays tariffs, passing the extra cost onto consumers through higher prices. However, when it comes to artwork, the collector or buyer often acts as the importer, meaning they would shoulder the 25% tariff directly.

Let’s break this down:

An original painting priced at $7,500 CAD currently converts to approximately $5,167 USD.
If purchased by a U.S. client, a 25% tariff would push the total cost to $6,458.75 USD.

While artists or galleries may offer small discounts (typically 5-10%) for multiple purchases or to attract new collectors, significant markdowns are rare. Art holds its value, and both artists and galleries work hard to maintain pricing integrity.

Art Shipping Crate for Brandy Saturley

What Can Artists and Galleries Do?

Given the uncertainty surrounding tariffs, Canadian artists and galleries may consider a few strategies:

Strengthening the domestic market by encouraging Canadian collectors to invest in homegrown talent.
Building relationships with international buyers by offering small incentives like complimentary shipping.
Highlighting the lasting value of art, reassuring collectors that investing in original works remains a wise and meaningful decision.

Canadian Artist, Brandy Saturley, on her art shipping crates

The Time to Buy Art is Now

With the potential for rising costs on the horizon, now is the time to invest in Canadian art. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, purchasing art today not only supports the artists creating meaningful work but also helps to safeguard your investment against future price hikes.

Explore the vibrant world of contemporary Canadian art. Let your collection grow and your walls tell a story—one brushstroke at a time.

Canadian Art by Brandy Saturley

Don’t wait for tariffs to dictate the price of art. Invest in a piece you love today.

March 4, 2025

Preparing An Art Shipment

Art Shipping, Art Show

How Do We Ship Art to A Gallery? Preparing An Art Shipment

Over the past two decades The Art of Brandy Saturley has been shipped to numerous galleries and collectors across North America, using wooden crate. While there are many options when it comes to art shipping, our favourite way to ship is inside a sturdy plywood crate that is impervious to weather, bangs, bumps and even boots. Once again we are preparing an art shipment to a gallery for a solo exhibition.

Crate made by Denbigh Fine Arts, Vancouver Canada for Brandy Saturley

Over the years I have partnered with some of the best crater makers in Western Canada, who have built crates for one painting to several paintings being shipped at once. From Vevex crates in Vancouver to crates made by Presentation Framing in Victoria. My crate makers supply the crate and I paint the exterior for branding but also for exhibition. When it comes to shipping 20 paintings to one destination for exhibition, Denbigh Fine Arts in Vancouver is my trusted choice for crate and shipping services. While I don’t paint my Denbigh made crates, they are by far the premium fine art packer in Western Canada. Museum worthy crates that protect some of the most valuable artworks during shipment.

Custom art crate for Brandy Saturley by Denbigh

As we are preparing for an upcoming solo exhibition in Newfoundland, once again we have employed Denbigh to construct, pack and ship 20 paintings to destination at James Baird Gallery in Pouch Cove. Packing 20 paintings in one crate is like a game of Tetris, where multiple layers of paintings, foam and plastic come together to provide the ideal environment for these artworks to rest during their journey.

Custom fine art shipping crate for Brandy Saturley – Denbigh Fine Arts

Denbigh has grown to become part of a larger family-owned group that represents the gold standard of international art handling. They have expanded into Montreal, Quebec with a new office and team to support clients in Western Canada. Their offering has expanded to a full suite of in-house services from shipping and logistics to crating and collections management. Combined with an international network of collaborators around the world, Denbigh brings their skills to a global stage.

inside Denbigh – image courtesy DenbighFAS.com

As we are located on Vancouver Island we begin with soft packing and wrapping the Art in my studio here, then we pack the car and take a ferry to the mainland, landing in Vancouver where we unload twenty paintings at Denbigh. The crate is built around the Art and packed by Denbigh, then their partners in shipping take the crate and deliver to destination, from the Western-most point in Canada to the easternmost, it is quite the journey for art.

Victoria, BC to Pouch Cove, Newfoundland

As I continue to prepare for my solo show and a one month residency in Newfoundland at the Pouch Cove Foundation, I too will take the journey from west to east. All in all a very large endeavour. It is going to be a great show!

Brandy Saturley with Newfoundland paintings 2025

March 3, 2025

International Polar Bear Day 2025

New Paintings

A New Polar Bear King Painting for International Polar Bear Day 2025

Looking back at the polar bear paintings I’ve created, the journey began in 2012 with a striking image of a young blonde girl facing off, nose to nose, with a polar bear. Since then, this majestic creature has drifted in and out of my work, appearing like a ghost of the North, a symbol of both strength and vulnerability. It wasn’t until 2021, emerging from the quiet isolation of the pandemic, that the polar bear took a deeper hold on my heart. As I contemplated global warming and the rapidly shifting climate, I found myself wondering—how does this magnificent beast adapt? How does it survive a changing world?

Face Off, 36×48, acrylic on canvas, 2012, Brandy Saturley

Like the polar bear, I am on a journey of exploration and adventure. As I seek out new homes for my paintings, new markets for my work, and fresh stories to paint, I feel a kinship with this creature—both of us navigating uncertain terrain with resilience and grace. This year, for International Polar Bear Day 2025, I celebrate the journey of the Polar Bear King in my art—now spanning over 25 paintings.

The Conversation, 48×48, acrylic on canvas, 2023, Brandy Saturley

In 2021, I painted my first polar bear wearing a crown and began referring to this regal figure simply as “King.” It was a natural progression, a way to honor the bear’s commanding presence. Since then, a series of paintings has followed—polar bears posed in landscapes I’ve explored, sometimes appearing in almost yoga-like stretches or playful rolls across icy tundras. The crown has become a recurring motif: at times subtly hidden in the background, other times floating above the bear’s head, glistening in gold leaf.

Canuck 1, 12×12, acrylic and gold leaf on canvas, 2023, Brandy Saturley

A visit to Churchill, Manitoba—the polar bear capital of the world—is on my horizon. I long to observe these bears in their natural habitat, to witness the blend of fierceness and playfulness that defines them. It’s a striking contradiction: the world’s largest land predator who, when unthreatened, tumbles and skates across the ice like a carefree adolescent.

Polar Bear King paintings, 2023, Brandy Saturley at Willock & Sax Gallery in Banff, Canada

Now, with my 27th polar bear painting, I am telling a tender story—of family, warmth, and connection. The piece depicts two cubs nestled deeply in their den beneath the snow, a stark contrast between the freezing winter outside and the cozy world they’ve created within. Wrapped in a red eight-point Hudson’s Bay blanket, the cubs press into one another, their furry white bodies forming the shape of a heart. A King and his sister, bound by love and survival. Together, they are one beating heart.

Heartbeats Hum, 36×36, acrylic, oil and gold leaf on canvas, 2025, Brandy Saturley

This painting is titled Heartbeat’s Hum—a quiet rhythm, a shared pulse, a symbol of life enduring against the cold.

Heartbeats Hum – polar bear king painting installed on wall

As I continue this journey with the Polar Bear King, each painting becomes not only an exploration of the bear’s world but a reflection of my own path—wandering, discovering, and finding warmth even in the frostiest of places.

Monarch of the Arctic Realms, 48×48, acrylic on canvas, 2025, Brandy Saturley

See more Polar Bear King paintings here.

February 25, 2025

Solo Show in Newfoundland

Art Show, Artist Residency

A Solo Show and A Residency in Newfoundland

In the fall of 2023, the wilds of Newfoundland were calling my name. It was October, and I was preparing for a month in Pouch Cove, a rugged, breathtaking place on the Eastern tip of Canada. That time in Newfoundland filled my artist’s vessel with the sights, sounds, and culture of a uniquely Canadian province, one with a swagger all its own. Now, as 2025 unfolds, I am preparing for a solo show in Newfoundland and another month at the Pouch Cove Foundation residency. The paintings for this upcoming exhibition were created both during my time in Newfoundland and upon my return home to my Vancouver Island studio.

Pouch Cove, Newfoundland 2023 – Brandy Saturley

Preparing for a solo exhibition is no small feat — it takes years of experiences where ideas are born, months of painting to produce enough work to command a gallery space, and a great deal of planning. Once the art is ready, there’s the task of packing and shipping everything for installation. To add another layer, I decided to create an art book to accompany the show — a celebration not only of this body of work but of the art I’ve made over the past 15 years. In less than two years, I painted the paintings, published the book, and now I’m preparing to exhibit this collection in Newfoundland.

Brandy Saturley in her Victoria, BC studio with Newfoundland paintings

Balancing the creative and business sides of being a full-time professional artist is always a juggling act. The work doesn’t stop simply because a solo show is on the horizon. Between October 2023 and now, I’ve had countless adventures and created numerous paintings beyond the Newfoundland series. I’ve traveled for art to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Boston, Massachusetts. I’ve produced over 30 new paintings, with a particular flurry of interest in my Polar Bear King series — now more than 25 paintings strong. Alongside these, I’ve worked on brand collaborations, commissions, and kept my art flowing to galleries, including partnering with a new dealer in Alberta.

Brandy Saturley studio – January 2024

There have been charity auctions, interviews, and steady sales — all while keeping my artistic lens firmly focused on Canada, a perspective I’ve maintained for nearly two decades. This focus feels more timely than ever, as the current political climate has heightened the importance of supporting Canadian artists and local industries.

Brandy Saturley with her art book, Painting Canada, 2025

Now, I’m readying my work for shipment to James Baird Gallery in Newfoundland and booking my flight for another stay at the edge of the Atlantic. I’m eager for this next adventure on The Rock — to see how the landscape, culture, and community will once again influence my art. What will emerge from my second residency at the Pouch Cove Foundation? I can’t wait to find out.

Brandy Saturley in her studio at Pouch Cove Foundation, Newfoundland

A preview of the solo show is now available on ARTSY — a glimpse into the journey so far and what’s to come.

February 24, 2025

Key Factors Artwork Appreciation

Advice for Art Collectors, Art Benefits

What are the key factors that influence the appreciation of artwork over time?

Several key factors influence the appreciation of artwork over time, making it a valuable investment. Here are the most important ones:

1. Artist Reputation and Career Growth

Works by established or emerging artists with a growing reputation tend to appreciate more.
Museum acquisitions, major exhibitions, and critical acclaim can significantly increase an artist’s value.

2. Provenance and Authenticity

A well-documented history of ownership (provenance) increases an artwork’s value.
Authenticity, including certificates of authenticity and expert verification, is crucial.

3. Rarity and Uniqueness

Limited editions or one-of-a-kind pieces are generally more valuable.
Signature styles or periods of an artist’s career often command higher appreciation.

4. Market Demand and Trends

Changes in art trends and collector preferences impact value.
Cultural relevance, including national or historical significance, can drive demand.

5. Medium and Condition

The materials used and the physical condition of the artwork affect its longevity and resale value.
Proper conservation and framing can preserve an artwork’s integrity.

6. Economic and Art Market Conditions

A strong economy generally boosts the art market, increasing demand and prices.
Auction results and collector interest can indicate market trends.

7. Institutional Recognition

Inclusion in major gallery exhibitions, museum collections, and art fairs can boost an artist’s market status.
Critical reviews and media coverage also play a role.

8. Collector and Investor Behavior

High-profile collectors investing in an artist’s work can drive up demand.
Corporate and institutional acquisitions often validate an artist’s long-term value.

Investing in Canadian art, particularly works by artists with strong national recognition, can be a rewarding long-term investment.

Key Factors in Artwork Appreciation

The Art of Canadian Artist, Brandy Saturley is a great investment for several compelling reasons:

1. Established Reputation and National Recognition

Brandy Saturley is a well-known Canadian artist with a growing national and international presence. Her work has been exhibited across Canada and beyond, earning recognition for its distinctive storytelling and iconic Canadian themes.

2. Unique Artistic Vision and Style

Saturley’s work blends pop modernism with Canadian iconography, creating a visually striking and deeply meaningful body of work. Her art captures the essence of Canadian culture, landscapes, and identity in a way that resonates with collectors and art lovers.

3. Strong Market Demand and Institutional Interest

Her paintings have been acquired by corporate and private collectors, as well as featured in public exhibitions. Institutions and businesses investing in her work add to its credibility and long-term value.

4. Limited and Original Works

Unlike mass-produced prints, Saturley’s pieces are original and unique, making them rare and valuable assets. Limited availability increases demand, leading to appreciation in value over time.

5. Cultural and Historical Significance

Her work often reflects themes of Canadian heritage, identity, and contemporary culture, making it highly relevant and appealing to collectors who value art that tells a story.

6. Investment Growth Potential

As her career continues to flourish, the value of her artworks is expected to rise. Early collectors may see significant appreciation in their investments as her influence and recognition grow.

Own an Original Brandy Saturley today!

February 19, 2025

Tax Season Invest in Art

Advice for Art Collectors, Art Benefits

Tax Season Is Upon Us – What Does Art Have to Do With Taxes?

As tax season approaches, many Canadians are looking for ways to maximize deductions, invest wisely, and make strategic financial decisions for the year ahead. While traditional investments such as stocks, real estate, and RRSPs dominate financial discussions, original Canadian art is an often-overlooked asset that offers both cultural and financial value. Tax season is upon us, invest in original Art.

Art as an Investment

Investing in original Canadian art is not just about aesthetics; it can be a sound financial decision. Unlike mass-produced prints or decorative pieces, original artworks by established or emerging Canadian artists can appreciate over time, providing a unique and tangible asset that enhances both your financial portfolio and living space.

The Tax Advantages of Buying Art

For businesses and corporations, purchasing original Canadian art can provide tax incentives. Under Canada’s Income Tax Act, businesses can claim a Capital Cost Allowance (CCA) on qualifying artwork, allowing them to depreciate the cost of the artwork over time. To qualify:

The artwork must be created by a Canadian artist.
It must be valued at $200 or more.
It should be displayed in a place of business where clients, employees, or the public can view it.

This means that investing in Canadian art can not only elevate your workspace but also offer potential tax relief.

Supporting Canadian Culture and Creativity

Beyond financial incentives, buying original Canadian art directly supports artists and the cultural economy. By investing in Canadian artwork, collectors and businesses contribute to the development of Canadian talent, helping artists continue their creative work and ensuring a thriving national art scene.

Tax Season Invest in Art: Diversifying Your Investment Portfolio

Unlike volatile markets, art provides a tangible, long-term asset that is not subject to daily fluctuations. Many investors diversify their portfolios with fine art as a hedge against inflation and economic downturns. Unlike stocks or mutual funds, art remains a unique and personal investment that can bring joy while also increasing in value.

Where to Start

If you’re new to collecting, consider starting with artists whose work resonates with you. Research Canadian painters, sculptors, and mixed-media artists whose styles align with your interests. Galleries, online platforms, and artist studios are great places to explore available works. Many artists, including myself, offer direct sales, making it easier to invest in an original piece.

Tax Season Invest in Art: Final Thoughts

As tax season rolls in, consider the benefits of investing in original Canadian art. Not only does it provide financial and tax advantages for businesses, but it also enriches your environment and supports the arts. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your office or a long-term investment, Canadian art offers a unique way to grow your wealth while celebrating the vibrant creativity of our country.

Explore the paintings of Brandy Saturley and start your art investment journey today!

February 19, 2025

New Canada Flag Paintings

New Paintings

Celebrating 60 Years of the Maple Leaf: New Paintings for Canada Flag Day

As an artist who paints Canada, the red maple leaf has appeared in my work countless times over the years. Every February 15th, we celebrate National Flag of Canada Day—a moment to reflect on the powerful symbolism of our flag. This year is especially significant, as the Maple Leaf flag turns 60! Recognized worldwide, our flag is bold and proud, yet as gentle as the leaves dancing in the wind on a sugar maple tree. I have been working on new Canada flag paintings.

Inside Brandy Saturley studio 2025

While much occupies our minds right now—from the ever-evolving political landscapes in Canada and the United States to the intense competition of the Four Nations Cup, where Canada, the U.S., Sweden, and Finland battle for hockey supremacy—there’s also a moment to celebrate what unites us. Having recently returned from Boston, where I had the privilege of celebrating Canadian art in the U.S., I found myself enamored with the city’s rich culture, architecture, and incredible people. That experience deepened my appreciation for our close yet complex relationship with our southern neighbors. As my artistic journey continues to explore themes of national identity, camaraderie, and the sport that unites us—hockey—I’m thrilled to share two new paintings that capture the essence of Canadian pride and our connection to the world.

Lovers in a Dangerous Time, 2025, Acrylic on wood, 18×24 – Brandy Saturley

The first painting presents the Canadian and American flags gently touching, set against the breathtaking backdrop of ocean and mountains, with Washington’s majestic Mt. Baker taking center stage. This piece is a visual dialogue about the deep ties between our nations—one of friendship, respect, and an undeniable connection, even amid a shifting global climate. With striking blues accentuating the bold reds and whites, this artwork makes a powerful statement in any space, inviting conversation and reflection.

Pride Between the Lions, 2025, acrylic on canvas, 18×24 – Brandy Saturley

The second painting is a tribute to our love of hockey and country, featuring the Canadian flag tied to an old wooden hockey stick, weaving in the wind. Set against the dramatic Vancouver coastal mountain range, with the iconic Lions peaks at the heart of the composition, this piece embodies the spirit of Canada—our passion for the game, our enduring pride, and the beauty of our landscape. It’s a must-have for any collector who treasures both art and the soul of Canadian culture.

On Guard, 2013, Acrylic on canvas, 30×40 – Colart Collection Quebec – Brandy Saturley

These new works are more than paintings; they are stories of identity, history, and pride, captured on canvas. If you’re drawn to art that reflects the heart of Canada, explore my collection and bring a piece of this powerful narrative into your space.

Discover more paintings of Canada and the iconic maple leaf here.

February 13, 2025

Artists in Canada

Art Career, Opinion

What Are the Statistics on Visual Artists in Canada?

Did you know that the National Gallery of Canada Library maintains an extensive database of professional visual artists in Canada? This valuable resource contains information on over 42,000 Canadian visual artists and more than 5,300 biographies, thanks to the support of CHIN, the National Gallery of Canada Foundation, and the dedicated work of Colin MacDonald, author of A Dictionary of Canadian Artists, alongside a team of staff and volunteers.

Canadian Paintings at Okotoks Art Gallery, 2017 – Brandy Saturley

In the visual arts field, the term “artist” is broadly defined, encompassing painters, sculptors, printmakers, designers, photographers, architects, and artisans. To be considered an artist “in Canada,” one must either be born in Canada or have worked here. The database does not imply any form of selection or recognition—only that a file exists, which may contain anything from a single press clipping to an extensive archive of exhibition records and media coverage.

Canadian Visual Artist, Brandy Saturley on her Art Shipping Crates

The Reality of Being a Visual Artist in Canada

According to the most recent census data, there are approximately 203,000 full-time professional artists in Canada, with around 21,000 working as visual artists. More than half (51%) of these artists are self-employed, valuing the flexibility, control, and sense of purpose that comes with managing their own creative careers. In contrast to the general workforce, where only 20% work from home, 54% of artists conduct their practice from home studios.

However, financial stability remains a challenge. Half of all artists report total personal incomes below $40,000, and when looking specifically at earnings from the cultural sector, two-thirds (66%) earn less than $40,000 annually, with 21% earning under $10,000. Despite these challenges, half of the artists surveyed would choose the same career path if given the chance to start over, a testament to their passion and dedication.

Postage stamp by Canadian Artist, Brandy Saturley

Artists as Multi-Talented Contributors

Many artists contribute to the arts beyond their own creative work. A significant portion (71%) hold more than one job, and 72% of those with secondary employment work within the cultural sector, blending their creative pursuits with other artistic or administrative roles. Yet, despite wearing multiple hats, almost half (44%) of self-employed artists have never received formal business or career management training—an area that remains crucial for long-term sustainability.

The Art of Brandy Saturley in Boston at Winteractive 2025

My Journey as a Full-Time Canadian Artist

Like many artists, I started my career balancing a full-time job outside the arts while developing my practice. This experience provided me with valuable skills that eventually supported my transition into a full-time artistic career. For nearly two decades, my art has been my sole profession—I don’t take on side gigs to supplement my income, nor do I frequently accept commissions. If I do take on a commission, it’s because I’m genuinely excited about the creative collaboration and the relationship behind the opportunity.

Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley with her Art Book, Painting Canada, 2025

From the beginning, I admired artists who successfully built sustainable careers while they were alive. Meeting renowned figures like Vilmos Zsigmond, the Academy Award-winning cinematographer of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Takashi Murakami, whose commercial success is as impressive as his artistic vision, reinforced my belief that it’s possible to make a living from art. I have never relied solely on my local market to grow my career. Instead, I’ve always looked beyond, balancing the creative and business sides of the industry to push my work forward.

Navigating the Art World: A Balancing Act

Being a full-time artist is both exhilarating and unpredictable—like riding waves on a surfboard, with highs, lows, and unexpected turns. Some might call it luck, but I see it as a combination of preparation, focus, and the ability to seize opportunities as they arise. In an industry filled with uncertainty, I work hard to be a reliable and adaptable presence. Every idea, whether it comes to fruition or not, holds the potential for creative and professional growth.

Brandy Saturley in her Victoria BC Canada studio

If you’re considering working with me—whether as a collector, collaborator, or client—I bring not only my artistic vision but also the dedication and business acumen necessary to see a project through successfully. Let’s create something meaningful together.

February 12, 2025