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First Paintings of 2025

Off With a Bang: The First Paintings of 2025

This year launched with a bang as new paintings flowed from brush to canvas and wood panel, fueled by recent travels to Boston, Massachusetts. With these first works of 2025, I found myself reflecting on the current political climate, continuing my beloved Polar Bear King series, and revisiting the rugged beauty of Waterton Lakes, Alberta. Here are the first paintings of 2025 that capture the pulse of the times.

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

Politics on Canvas: Flags and Trade Wars

Feeling the ripple effects of shifting Canada-US relations and the looming trade tariffs, I was drawn to the powerful symbolism of flags. Patriotism is running high, and with tensions in the air, I leaned into my Canadian voice. Two new paintings feature bold interpretations of the Canadian and American flags, exploring the complex connection between neighboring nations. These works stand as visual commentaries on the push and pull of economic alliances and cultural identity.

Pride Between The Lions, Acrylic On Canvas, 18 x 24 x 1.5 in, Brandy Saturley

The Polar Bear King: New Adventures

The Polar Bear King continues his reign, now 27 paintings strong. Fresh from an art trip to Boston, I found myself inspired by one of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks—the first-ever Dunkin’ Donuts location. In this playful piece, a polar bear lounges next to a towering stack of donuts, a whimsical nod to indulgence and Americana.

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

In contrast, another painting tunnels deep into the Arctic snow, where twin polar bear cubs are nestled in the warmth of their den, surrounded by a vibrant red Hudson’s Bay Blanket. The scene evokes both tenderness and resilience, highlighting the vulnerability of these majestic animals amid changing climates.

Heartbeats Hum, Oil and Acrylic on Wood Panel, 36 x 36 x 1 in, Brandy Saturley

Rounding out this series, I turned to the nostalgic test card colors once seen at the end of television broadcasts. This familiar grid of hues becomes a metaphor for the polar bear’s fight against disappearing landscapes—a fading signal in a world of environmental flux.

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

Waterton Landscapes: Vivid and Bold

In 2020, during the pandemic, I traveled through Waterton Lakes, Alberta, where the soaring peaks and serene waters left an indelible mark. Now, with four new landscape paintings, I’m bringing those memories to life with bold, pop-art-inspired palettes and crisp, hard-edged forms. The collection captures the park’s striking scenery in a style that blends realism with vibrant modernism.

Four landscape paintings inspired by Waterton Lakes, Alberta

Adding to this series is a still life of Alberta wild roses—an ode to the resilient beauty of the province. These paintings are now available through Gust Gallery in Waterton Lakes, marking a new partnership with this fantastic Canadian art dealer.

Wild Rose Country, Acrylic On Canvas, 24 x 12 x 1.5 in , Brandy Saturley

First Paintings of 2025: Explore and Collect These New Works

These 10 new paintings reflect the pulse of 2025—a fusion of political commentary, cultural icons, and Canadian landscapes. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting viewers to see the world through my lens.

👉 Browse the collection and bring home a piece of 2025. View and Purchase Available Paintings

March 24, 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

My Essential Studio Tools

Art Business, Artist Studio Tools

Items For Painters – My Essential Studio Tools

For many years I have shared my artist process and inside my studio on Instagram. While it has been a great tool for connecting with collectors, it has also been an opportunity to connect with fellow Artists of all stages. I get asked all the time about my custom made easels and my lighting equipment. Oftentimes there are questions about the brushes I use, the paints I prefer and even the cameras I utilize to capture my process. Instagram is a tough place to offer an in depth account of my studio tools, particularly when I am good at writing and love to share with people outside the Instaverse. So, after nearly two decades making art daily, here are the keys to my studio and a list of my essential tools and where you can pick them up online.

Brandy Saturley Studio, Vancouver Island, Canada, 2024

Wall Easels: these were custom built by my partner and me after we began looking online for options. At the time my studio was in the living room of our condo, and while I have great easel, the wall easels offered the opportunity to work on more than one painting at a time, while not taking up space. I found Paper Bird Studios online, they make handcrafted wall mounted easels, but they are pricey and shipping to Canada from Virginia. So we took Jason Tueller’s design and used it to make our own right here in Victoria, Canada. We used walnut and ended up making three wall easels. Since moving to my new home, and setting up a dedicated studio space, I dropped it down to two walls easels and kept my free standing crank easel.

Brandy Saturley Studio – Victoria BC Canada, 2024

Free-Standing Easel: I bought the BEST Classic Santa Fe II crank studio easel when I was in my condo, it’s a great sturdy studio easel and will easily take up to a 72″ canvas and still offer stability.

Studio Lighting: I like to control my lighting in the studio, I largely close up my windows to the outside and use four adjustable freestanding LED photography lights from GODOX. These lights offer the ability to control colour temperature, lumens power and angle of lighting. I can also control them by remote, but don’t often use the remotes as I find it just as easy to manually change the settings. The GODOX LED’s are meant for a photography studio, which is perfect for studio photography and video outside the ability to light for painting. I use the Godox LEDP260C Ultra-Thin 30W Dimmable LED Video Light Panel Lamp 3200K-5600K. I added the universal tripod stands by Amazon basics.

Brandy Saturley Studio – North Saanich, Canada, 2023

Ring Light: for video where I am speaking to the camera, recording painting process videos, and for Zoom, I use the 18 inch LED Neewer ring light with changeable filters from cool to warm light. It’s dimmable and comes with a tripod mount for iPhone. It makes everyone look great and comes with a useful camera remote.

Studio Supplies Cart: I love my cart, I keep some paints and mediums, as well as my brushes in this handy cart that I can move freely in the studio. It’s also a great place to put tapes, scissors, rulers and whatever else I might need to grab at a moments notice. I bought my sturdy steel 3 shelf cart through ULINE.

Go to Local Art Supplier: I have been loyal to my local supplier for years, Opus Art Supplies, they offer pro-discounts if you are buying over $1000 of supplies per year. I buy Golden Fluid acrylics, Golden OPEN, Liquitex acrylic gouache, Golden mediums and varnishes, Holbein Duo Aqua Water Mixable Oils, my canvas and panels through this awesome local business.

Golden Fluid Acrylic Paints and Mediums

Go to Local Acrylic Paint Supplier: there is a well known paint maker on Granville Island in Vancouver called KROMA, they offer top notch acrylic paints at reasonable prices and even supply paint to the Vancouver Film industry. Launched in 1970, KROMA has now been a part of the Vancouver art community, providing paint to painters for 50 years. Their success is based on the word of mouth recommendations of regular customers. While their business has slowly grown they still make each colour with considerable care, by hand, in small batches.

Brandy Saturley in studio with Kroma paints, Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity.

Paintbrushes: after my time in London, England at the Royal College of Art I came to discover Rosemary’s Brushes – from the Rosemary & Co. brush company. The finest handmade brushes on the planet and quite affordable as well. Shipping directly to my front door via Royal Mail service. I have come to develop a bit of an addiction to these great brushes. I am particularly in love with their SMOOSHING brushes, great for feathering and blending hard edges. If you purchase brushes please enter my affiliate coupon code BRANDYSATURLEY24 at checkout. Referral email for setting up a new account art@brandysaturley.com .

Using a Rosemary & Co. mini smooshing brush for tiny details.

Don’t forget the good old dollar store (Poundland in the UK) and building supply stores, they offer many great tools for artists at reasonable rates. I also love walking the back aisles at our local Princess Auto, it’s amazing what you can find that can help you in the studio. From paintbrushes to foam brushes, rollers for finishing and painters tape.

My Essential Art Supplies – studio table at Pouch Cove Foundation, Newfoundland, 2023

Remember, I have been building my studio for nearly twenty years and three moves, so as your art career grows, your studio will grow with you and these pieces are things you invest in both daily and over time. There is no sense going out and buying the best of everything right from the start, what you need grows out of where you are heading with your art career. Next post I will cover camera supplies, printers and archiving software.

Happy art making everyone!

Sincerely Yours,

Brandy Saturley

April 18, 2024

Creativity and Mental Health

Advice for Artists, Art Career

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”.

With gratitude,
Brandy Saturley

January 24, 2024

Engaging Canada Portrait Project

Art Career

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

January 5, 2024

Significance of Art

New Paintings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more original paintings by contemporary Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley.

January 3, 2024

Annual Art Magazine Release

Art For Sale, Canadian Art

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

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

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

NEW THIS YEAR! – Annual Art Magazine Release

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

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

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

November 24, 2023

Painting of the Year

Art Career

Top 5 Paintings for 2023 – Selecting Painting of the Year

Each year in November, we take a look back at the paintings I have made over the course of the year. This year 28 new paintings found their way from my hand, to canvas, which makes choosing a painting of the year challenging. It was a year where my Ukrainian roots, the changing and warming climate with our long hot summer (wildfire season) and the continuing journey of the Polar Bear King, were on my mind. My year began with a group exhibition in Banff at Willock & Sax Gallery, as my paintings and writing from my residency at the Banff Centre were still commanding my attention.

Brandy Saturley in Thom Studio at Banff Centre, November 2022.

The year began with paintings of people enjoying skating on outdoor ponds. The Polar Bear King on his continuing journey across Canada, came floating in and out of my view as I created a series of small and large paintings expressing what has now become a series, and a few stories for this blog about my adventures in the Canadian landscape. I came to find my way back to figurative paintings inspired by my deep connection to the Ukraine and family roots. A portrait of young Ukrainian Shumka dancers and a self-portrait to add to my growing series of annual examinations of self.

I found myself blogging about top Canadian painters, Ukrainian Artists, and art school teachers who have reached out to me this year. It has been wonderful to connect with the next generation, hear and see what they are inspired to make in their art classes. I delved into the Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent connection and how both painters have captured my attention over the years. In Banff, I had the pleasure of making work for an art gallery outdoors on the Bow River path in the centre of town, the Art in Nature Trail.

Brandy Saturley – Art in Nature Trail, summer 2023

You could find my paintings in print this year in two Toronto publications; the Hart House Review published by the University of Toronto and smART Magazine – both equally wonderful Arts publications made in Toronto, Canada. In August I finished my 21st Polar Bear King painting, in as series which continues to grow and evolve. Heading back to my writing room, I leaned into blogging about the importance of music in my art making and the healing power of Art.

There was also some talking this year, live on camera, something I don’t do very often. I spoke with Artists in Canada about my art practice, my goals, why a five year goal is a fluid thing as a professional artist and why I paint self-portraits. We touched on the privilege of not only living in Canada, but of being able to pursue a career you absolutely love. I also signed on with Mastrius as a Master Mentor and hope to assist emerging artists in their journeys. I delved into why Pop Art is Canada and how I am taking care of business as I work towards new opportunities for my Art.

Brandy Saturley talking with Artists in Canada YouTube channel.

In late 2023 I packed up my studio and took it with me to an artist residency in Newfoundland. The Pouch Cove Foundation, now 30 years in the residency business, invited me to join their group in October. For a month I had the opportunity to paint, photograph, and film many areas of Newfoundland, from a private studio with a loft attached to a building housing the remarkable James Baird Gallery. With my time in Newfoundland I created three new paintings, which then came home with me to Vancouver Island, dipping my feet in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, I am now a coast to coast to coast, Canadian artist. This opened a door to ARTSY and you will now find some of my paintings available through James Baird Gallery on this top website for art collectors and galleries worldwide.

As the Polar Bear King continues to roam, so do I. Out of 28, here are what I consider to be my five best paintings of 2023.

5. Peaking at Peyto

The Polar Bear King at Willock & Sax Gallery, Banff CANADA

4. Glide Away

Skaters on frozen ponds.

3. Spirit of Ukraine

A group of young Ukrainian Shumka dancers.

2. I Lost my Sou’Wester in Pouch Cove

A yellow Sou’Wester hat on the rocky beach in Newfoundland.

1. Monarch of the Artic Realms

The Polar Bear King in Nunavut.

November 22, 2023

21st Polar Bear Painting

New Paintings

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

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

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

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

A New Narrative: Monarch of the Arctic Realms

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Details: the 21st Polar Bear Painting

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

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

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

August 11, 2023