Posts

How to Invest in Art

Beyond Buying Art for the Love of It: How to Invest in Canadian Art

Studio visits are something I offer rarely, as this is my working space, it is sacred. Thankfully, I maintain a studio in my home where my studio is separate, and my home functions as a place to display my art made in the studio below. Invitations to my home gallery are extended to serious investors only. If I feel there is a genuine interest for a specific piece in my collection, I will extend a rare opportunity to visit my home and see the work on a wall, properly lit for a serious art collector to enjoy in person. Investing in Canadian Art should be done with love first, and perhaps investment second, looking at an artists’ provenance and how this can bring investment insight.

For me as the Artist, inviting a potential new client into my home studio, gives me a personal opportunity to meet someone who really loves my work. These opportunities to connect with a genuine fan, always give as much to me as the Artist, as the Art gives to a true lover of my paintings. In these intimate visits I can share the story behind the piece, and in the stories the collector brings to the piece through their own unique experiences. These collectors understand the investment in an art career that spans nearly two decades now. They are also aware of the depth of my involvement in the Canadian Art Industry, with important public and private gallery shows, as well as deep professional connections in the industry.

Canadianisms: A Half Decade Painting Canada – Strathcona County Gallery @501 – 2017 Brandy Saturley

They also learn about the private and corporate collections who have invested in my work as well as my journey across Canada and England over the course of my career. Currently my dealer of choice, Willock & Sax in Banff Canada, represents my work. I also have work available through James Baird Gallery in Newfoundland, Canada. These phenomenal dealers offer my work as do I, and I also work together with them to help promote and sell my work. Dealing with me directly or these two dealers, confirms the painting will be an original Brandy Saturley, if the piece is not from one of these representatives, it is not an original and authentic Brandy Saturley.

Willock & Sax Art Gallery, Banff Canada – Brandy Saturley 2023

Investing in Art: The Path to Profound Connection and Profit

Choosing the right artist is more than just selecting a name; it’s about recognizing influence, acknowledging public and media recognition, and delving into the artist’s journey. Whether it’s a contemporary master or a promising emerging talent, every piece holds the potential for long-term profitability and personal fulfillment.

The Art of Investment: Beyond Aesthetics

When considering an investment, it’s crucial to look beyond aesthetics. Assessing the long-term profitability of your acquisitions involves careful consideration of exhibition, preservation, and storage conditions. Protecting your investment isn’t just about preserving the artwork; it’s about safeguarding its value for generations to come.

Art as Legacy: The Power of Donation

Beyond the monetary gains, the true value of art lies in its ability to inspire and endure. By considering the donation of your acquisitions to museums or recognized charities, you not only enrich cultural heritage but also unlock significant tax benefits—a legacy that transcends generations.

hockey gallery Canada's Sports Hall of Fame

The Art of Brandy Saturley @ Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, 2012

Navigating the Art Market: Seek Expert Guidance

In the complex world of art investment, guidance is paramount. By consulting with experts—gallery owners, art advisors, tax accountants—you gain insights that extend beyond the canvas. Trust in their knowledge, but never forget the importance of following your heart.

In the End, Trust Your Instincts

Amidst the intricacies of art investment, one truth remains: buy what you love. As an artist, I encourage you to consider all factors, but ultimately, let your passion be your guide. Your investment journey is as unique as the art you choose to embrace—embrace it with confidence and conviction.

Two of Three Acquisitions by the Colart Collection, Montreal CANADA – 2012 Brandy Saturley

How to Invest in Canadian Art: Buy an original Brandy Saturley

Are you ready to step into a world where passion and profit converge? Join me on a journey where every brushstroke tells a story, and every investment holds the promise of a brighter future. Start your art investment journey today, through buying something to love and enjoy for generations.

Brandy Saturley at Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity, 2022

March 22, 2024

WILDLIFE Art Exhibition Project

Art Show

Opening March 31, 2024: WILDLIFE Art Exhibition Project

Experience the untamed beauty of nature from the comfort of your screen with the WILDLIFE Spring Art Exhibition Project, hosted by the esteemed John B. Aird Gallery in Toronto, Canada. In a world where digital connections have become paramount, we invite you to embark on a visual journey that transcends boundaries and celebrates many Artists expressions of WILDLIFE.

Since its inception in 1975, the John B. Aird Gallery has been a beacon of artistic expression, championing the work of Canadian artists and fostering a vibrant cultural community. Named in honor of Ontario’s 23rd Lieutenant Governor, the gallery stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and innovation.

With the onset of the pandemic, the gallery has embraced the digital realm, bringing its exhibitions to a global audience. This spring, join us as we unveil the WILDLIFE project, curated by renowned Montreal gallerists André Laroche and Louis Joncas. Featuring contributions from 62 artists and showcasing 71 mesmerizing pieces, this exhibition promises to inspire and captivate.

Proud to be selected for this unique project and virtual exhibition, I am thrilled to present my painting ‘Monarch of the Arctic Realms’, a homage to the majestic polar bear and its habitat. Selected as artwork of the year in 2023, this piece invites viewers into the serene yet powerful world of the Arctic wilderness.

Monarch of The Arctic Realms – acrylic and gouache on raw canvas, 2023 Brandy Saturley

62 Artists: WILDLIFE Art Exhibition Project

Don’t miss your chance to experience the WILDLIFE exhibition, accessible online at the Aird Gallery website. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and join the conversation surrounding contemporary art and visual culture. Visit https://airdgallery.org to explore the exhibition and discover a world of creativity at your fingertips. Additionally, a publication featuring the showcased artwork will be available for perusal on the website at https://airdgallery.org/publications/. Join us as we celebrate the intersection of art and visual culture in this unforgettable showcase of talent and inspiration.

March 19, 2024

Brandy Saturley X Grounded People

Art Licensing, Commissioned Art

An Ethical Collaboration – The Art of Brandy Saturley X Grounded People

Over the years, The Art of Brandy Saturley has proudly collaborated with a variety of distinctive brands and institutions. From ThinOptics reading glasses to the Vancouver Symphony, from fine wine to handmade chocolate bars, and even educational institutions, public schools, and university texts—wherever there’s a natural synergy, we’re eager to collaborate. Last year, our creative journey led us to a partnership with Grounded People, a revolutionary ethical footwear brand based in Vancouver, Canada. Introducing Brandy Saturley X Grounded People, unique artist collaborations launching Spring 2024.

Brandy Saturley X Grounded People 2024

Artist Collaborations – Brandy Saturley X Grounded People

Bringing together art and footwear, the collaboration between Brandy Saturley and Grounded People offers a unique fusion of creativity and style. Hand-painted with acrylics, The Art of Brandy Saturley tells four distinct visual stories on each pair of All SZN high-top shoes. Featuring Saturley’s signature ‘Pop Canadianisms’ style, the designs capture the essence of outdoor adventures in Canada, particularly the breathtaking landscapes of the Vancouver coastal mountains.

Original acrylic painting on Grounded People All SZN boots – Brandy Saturley, 2024

Each panel on the shoes showcases a unique story:

– Outside Left: Featuring ‘The Lions’ peaks, orcas, and maple leaves.
– Inside Left: Depicting the coastal mountain range and a Grounded hockey player.
– Outside Right: Showcasing the Garibaldi range (black tusk) with elk and a sunset.
– Inside Right: Highlighting more of the Garibaldi range with a Grounded snowboarder.

Artist collaborations: Brandy Saturley original painting on All SZN boots, 2024

The process of painting these shoes presented unique challenges due to the differing surfaces, but the result is a stunning blend of artistry and functionality.

Why collaborate with Grounded People?

Here are four compelling reasons:

1. Beautifully Designed and Comfortable Footwear: Grounded People’s footwear combines exquisite design with unparalleled comfort.
2. Ethical and Environmentally Conscious: Grounded People is committed to ethical manufacturing practices and environmental sustainability.
3. Unique Tracking System: Experience a unique journey through the creation of your footwear with Grounded People’s innovative tracking system.
4. Giving Back to the Community: Grounded People is dedicated to giving back through partnerships with charitable organizations.

Who are Grounded People?

Grounded People was founded with a mission to revolutionize the fashion industry by setting a new ethical standard. They believe in producing fashion that minimizes environmental impact and prioritizes the well-being of all living beings.

Their commitment includes:

– Animal-Free Manufacturing: shoes are crafted without the use of animal products.
– Environmentally Friendly Materials: prioritize materials with low environmental impact to ensure durability and longevity.
– Fair Labor Practices: partner exclusively with manufacturers who uphold fair labor standards, ensuring workers are treated fairly and work in safe conditions.

Additionally, their innovative LACES program offers versatility and supports charitable causes. With every pair of shoes purchased, we donate 100% of the proceeds to a charitable organization of your choice. Each charity is represented by a unique color of LACES, allowing you to support causes close to your heart.

Grounded People All SZN shoes

Check out all the Grounded People collaborations here.

Own a unique Brand? Learn more about collaborating with The Art of Brandy Saturley.

March 14, 2024

Painting Dory Boats of Newfoundland

New Paintings

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

Famous Self-Taught Artists

Art Career

Embracing the Journey: Celebrating Famous Self-Taught Artists

In the quiet moments of my childhood, amidst the rustle of leaves and the scent of creativity, I found solace in art alongside my mother. Each day brought forth a new creation, a testament to our shared passion for expression. From pressed maple leaves to wax crayon masterpieces, our bond grew stronger with every stroke. Though my mother wasn’t a renowned artist, her self-taught spirit ignited a flame within me, urging me to pursue the path of creation. Celebrating the path of famous self-taught artists.

Pencil Portrait on paper, 1992, Brandy Saturley

My journey as an artist took an unconventional route, guided by intuition and fueled by exploration. While I dabbled in formal art education, it was the lessons learned outside the classroom that truly shaped my artistic identity. Through travels and encounters with seasoned painters, I gleaned insights that transcended traditional teachings. Two such mentors, a self-taught luminary from Winnipeg, and one in Toronto, imparted wisdom that resonated deeply, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of self-discovery in art.

Brandy Saturley and Charles Pachter, 2016, MOFO Moose Factory Toronto

As a Canadian Artist who thrives on experimentation, I’ve come to cherish the freedom that self-teaching affords. While technique and history certainly hold their place, there’s a raw authenticity to self-taught art that speaks volumes. It’s a realm where emotion reigns supreme, untouched by the constraints of formal instruction. And while some may seek to replicate my style, my greatest desire is to inspire others to tread their own path, fearlessly embracing the unknown.

Andrew Valko, Brandy Saturley and Jennifer Luckay at Art Toronto, 2016

The history of self-taught artists is as rich and diverse as the art they create. From iconic figures like Frida Kahlo, The Beatles, and Vincent Van Gogh to modern-day trailblazers like Jack White, David Bowie and Kurt Cobain, their stories inspire us to defy convention and forge our own destiny. In a world where artistic prowess is often equated with formal training, they stand as living testaments to the boundless power of self-expression.

Gordon Milne and Brandy Saturley, 2017 Okotoks Art Gallery, photo courtesy Penny Rogers

A Modern Autodidact I AM – Famous Self-Taught Artists

Today, being self-taught is not merely a label, but a badge of honor worn proudly by those who dare to challenge the status quo. It’s a declaration of independence, a refusal to conform to the rigid confines of the art establishment. And as we celebrate the mavericks and innovators who have carved their own paths, let us raise a toast to the enduring spirit of self-discovery in art.

In the history of creativity, each thread tells a story of resilience, passion, and unwavering determination. So here’s to the self-taught artists who dare to dream, who dare to defy, and who dare to create against all odds. May their legacy inspire generations to come, reminding us that true art knows no boundaries, no limitations, only the boundless expanse of the human spirit.

Brandy Saturley in studio with Winnipeg Filmmaker Randy Frykas, 2019

February 29, 2024

Canada’s Outdoor Hockey Club

Canadian Art, Outdoor Hockey Rink

We Are All Members of Canada’s Outdoor Hockey Club

If you grew up in a cold place where the ponds, lakes and rivers froze over in winter, you are likely part of the outdoor hockey club. Even if you didn’t love hockey, but liked to skate or even just observe from the edges, filling you full of sights, sounds and smells of the ODR, you are an outdoor hockey club member. Building rinks on farm fields of the prairies or in Northern locations on the lakes, cheering on the players and helping them create a safe place to get out and get active, having fun with friends and breathing in the air of the crisp outdoors. You are part of this club if you don’t let cold winter days take hold, but instead create a place that you can escape to and forget the everyday and immerse yourself in the joy and passion, the energy of the great outdoors. I for one never experienced the ODR in winter, as it so rarely gets cold enough in my hometown in the winter. But that doesn’t stop us from enjoying ball hockey in the cul-de-sac and dead end streets of Victoria. In Canada, and beyond, we are all members of Canada’s Outdoor Hockey Club.

Game On! – Pouch Cove, Newfoundland – courtesy Brandy Saturley

Personally, I am a HUGE fan of a particular Outdoor Hockey Club born in Winnipeg during the pandemic. When so many kids lost the connection with friends through sporting activities, Winnipeg filmmaker Randy Frykas took note and his lifelong passion for hockey and documentary filmmaking came together in the most beautiful and authentic way. From Moosomin, Saskatchewan to Whitehorse Yukon, Ontario and back to Winnipeg, Manitoba and with six episodes in the can, the word is spreading quickly and now across the border.

Canadian documentary filmmaker, Randy Frykas.

After winning the ‘Purpose’ Category for the 2023 Outside Awards, the 5-minute OHC short film joined the Warren Miller film tour for a chance to win the People’s Choice award and $10,000. The awards were hosted by Outside Magazine and the tour hit 200+ cities in Canada, US, and UK. Well, the votes are in and OHC came out on top. Not too bad for a hockey film, up against two skiing films on a ski film tour!

Eric Reder and his amazing rinks in Winnipeg – courtesy Randy Frykas

The film has been added to Outside TV’s streaming service and it is available to buy (link below). Two dollars from each sale will be donated to Save Pond Hockey and their ongoing climate action efforts. Most of us had an unpredictable winter when it came to playing outdoor hockey, so we feel this is a good way to share the film and help spread Save Pond Hockey’s message.

For more information on Save Pond Hockey, check them out here: https://savepondhockey.org/

On the ODR at Hillcrest Whitehorse – courtesy Randy Frykas

So, what’s next for OHC? Filming continues as Frykas works towards producing a longer film that will include more outdoor hockey sounds, sights, and stories from rinks everywhere.

You can follow along on Instagram and YouTube:

https://www.instagram.com/outdoorhockeyclub/

https://www.youtube.com/@outdoorhockeyclub

And the 5-min OHC documentary short is available here:

https://outdoorhockeyclub.sellfy.store/p/outdoor-hockey-club-documentary-short-2023/

The Outdoor Hockey Club in Canadian Art

There is a rich history of outdoor hockey paintings in Canadian Art, where the frozen lakes and ponds have served as both canvas and stage for the game’s timeless beauty.

From its humble origins in the 19th century to its modern-day prominence, hockey has evolved into more than just a sport—it’s a cultural phenomenon ingrained in the fabric of Canadian identity.

As the game’s rules refined over the decades, hockey’s essence remained rooted in tradition, spanning millennia of human history. Today, it evokes profound passion among players and fans alike, uniting communities under the banner of shared heritage and national pride.

Explore the artistic expressions inspired by this beloved sport, showcased in exhibitions across Canada and the US. These diverse interpretations shed light on hockey’s complexities, from inclusivity to the delicate balance between athleticism and its toll on individual well-being.

While acknowledging hockey’s inherent physicality and occasional controversies, it’s undeniable that the game fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its participants and supporters.

Step into the world of Canadian hockey through the eyes of five iconic artists, whose paintings vividly capture the essence of playing on outdoor rinks, lakes, streets, and ponds. Experience the beauty, the passion, and the timeless allure of hockey in its purest form.”

Molly Lamb Bobak – La Partie de hockey – courtesy Kilnkhoff Gallery

James Duncan – Canadian Watercolour

Bill Brownridge – Choosing Up (courtesy Heart of Hockey)

Brandy Saturley – A Punch Line and an Unknown (courtesy Artist & Colart Collection)

Richard Brodeur – Kids on The Lake

February 25, 2024

Welcome Home to Victoria

Artist Process, Artist Residency

West to East and East to West – Welcome Home

So let’s go to the East Coast I said, and we did. I was there to make Art at the Pouch Cove Foundation residency, and he came along to see a bit of my home for a month, tour around the Avalon peninsula, enjoy time with friends and eat fish & chips next to ships made for stormy seas and hard working fisher people! One town that captured our hearts and our bellies was Petty Harbour.

Petty Harbour reflections – photo Brandy Saturley

We went with friends and celebrated the end of the first week with a lobster roll and recovery fries, yes you read that right. At Chafe’s near the harbour we ate an East Coast poutine of fries smothered with gravy, cheese curds, dressing, mushrooms, onions, peas and ground beef, filling an entire plate. After a month on the rock, there was a grand welcome home to Victoria, dipping my toes back in the Pacific Ocean of the West Coast of this beautiful and massive country we call home.

Chafes Landing in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

For an artist, Petty Harbour is a living art installation of the most fascinating kind. Dotted along the shores of the harbour sits brightly painted structures in no particular layout or order, the style is more scattered, as if no one was too concerned with developing a town one could navigate. It’s almost like no one expected to stay here for very long, in many ways it feels like a living outdoor museum of the history of the area. There are brightly painted dories, tee-pee like structures, lobster fishing traps, piles of colourful ropes and fish boats of all kinds.

Old Lobster traps in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland – photo Brandy Saturley

The first day we visited the harbour it was a proper fall day in Newfoundland. Fog was rolling and waves at the mouth of the harbour were thunderous and deafening, it was incendiary! Like a cauldron of the ocean gods, I was trying to imagine these little boats crossing through that treacherous mouth protecting the harbour from shear insanity of the seas. This place represents all the best of true Newfoundlandness, at least from this West coaster’s perspective. Upstairs at Chafe’s the music is loud and the thumping of humans feet provides a beat to eat to below. The heartbeat of this place is thunderous and unabashed.

The mouth of Petty Harbour – photo Brandy Saturley

It’s 2024 now, and we are back on the West Coast, in Victoria. We walked ourselves down from the Bard & Banker pub, to a place we call The Mac (The McPherson Playhouse). Two Paloma margaritas and a lobster roll down, we walked up the red carpeted stairs of this beautiful old playhouse to the balcony seats made for tinier ancient times. On stage amongst the guitars, piano and drum kit, there sat a Newfoundland flag, draped over a musicians travelling case. There was also what looked like an antique radio speaker of some sort, it made for some good reverberations during Adam Baldwin’s set, a musician from Nova Scotia, the quintessential maritime character. With bleached blonde hair, and black beard wearing red plaid shirt with arms torn off, and blue collar worker neon yellow t-shirt underneath, his humorous stories of everyday growing up, were painting stories in my mind.

Alan Doyle Welcome Home Tour @ McPherson Playhouse – Victoria BC 2024

Then the Petty Harbour native himself made his fiery entrance, a proper Newfoundlander. Having just been in Petty Harbour we found ourselves getting every little thing Doyle was laying out in his stories. When he leaned into his stories of his perceptions with the East Coast, we laughed LOUD. “I was on Granville Island and someone paddled by the dock in a kayak, just for recreation!”.

Serendipity – Welcome Home to Victoria

I guess the point of me writing this blog post is my eternal belief in universal forces at work, well and how my brain works. How this journey of painting visual stories of Canada began over a decade ago during the Vancouver Olympic games and became what it is today.

Scenes of Newfoundland – painting by Brandy Saturley 2024

From The Goalie’s Mask painting, to #ICONICCANUCK and then onto painting my ‘Pop Canadianisms’ and taking myself and my art on the road across the country, from coast to coast to coast. I have eight paintings now influenced by my experiences in Newfoundland, and I plan to take the next two months to focus on painting as many more as I can, before I head out on the road once again.

Fiery sunset in Petty Harbour – photo Brandy Saturley

Thank you Alan Doyle and your wonderfully talented group of musicians, poets, singers and storytellers. This night helped to cap my journey from west to east and back again, through this wonderful evening of song, stomping and clapping until our arms hurt.

Gloves on a clothesline in Petty Harbour – photo Brandy Saturley

February 23, 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

Tax Benefits Canadian Art

Advice for Art Collectors, Buying Art

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.

Discover a beautiful painting for your lobby or office, now.

Commission a custom painting for your business with Brandy Saturley

February 16, 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