toronto
Twist Gallery is very excited to showcase our new exhibit Vibrance, and give you a chance to get to know the 8 talented artists on a deeper level to better understand their artistic process. Vibrance is centred around life’s moments, both in the mundane and the exciting, encouraging our intertwined connectivity of the human experience. We asked our artists some questions about the ‘vibrancy’ of their work. To find out more, keep reading!
Read MoreTwist Gallery’s October 2022 exhibit #Vibrance, on from October 4th to 30th, is a dynamic, joyful, and effervescent interpretation of what it means to live, to feel, and to dream. Spotlighting eight exceptional artists from Toronto, this exhibit garners the unrestrained power of light, hue, and texture, inviting the viewer on a journey into colour itself. Through a fearless employment of colour and bold brush strokes, these artists open the door of creativity for the public. Don’t miss #Vibrance’s Opening Reception, taking place on October 6th from 6-9pm. Click here to RSVP.
Read MoreA wife and a mother of four kids, our “Colour Me Bold” artist Megan Tracy is also a full time photographer.
What inspires your art?
I think that I am most inspired by nature. The ocean, flowers, the sky would be my main, but color combinations could also come from music, fashion, interiors and other areas of design that I love.
Isleys (1 of 2), 12” by 12”, $280 for both
What medium and technique do you use?
I use resin with acrylic and alcohol inks.
Faith, 8” by 10”, $140
Walk us through your process of creating a piece.
When I start a piece, believe it or not it begins with music. Whatever vibe I’m feeling that day, I pick a playlist. Lay out my materials and off we go. I create. Sometimes there’s a plan in my head, sometimes it just goes wherever it goes.
Supreme,16” by 20”, $250
How did you start out as an artist?
I’m a photographer full time, so creating this type of art was really just exchanging people for acrylic and resin.
Green, 5” by 7”, $100
Do you use bold colours for a specific reason?
I love color. I do have my “go to“ colors, although most of them are usually bold color selections.
What inspires your art?
My inspirations come from nature and the natural beauty around us. I’ve always been able to view the world through a lens of colour, shapes, and dimensions, and have the ability to translate this into artistic expression.
“Wings” acrylic on birch (30” x 40”) $1,500
Can you talk about your process? What tools do you use to create?
I begin my creations by imagining abstract renditions of images in my mind that have been formed through my life experiences. At times I even surprise myself when the process seems to take on a life of its own. I take advantage of a variety sources of mediums and continually experiment with innovative techniques. Some of my work is done with conventional paint and brush, and at other times they can involve my fingers and other non-conventional tools.
Source: www.gloriablatt.com
When did you first discover art? Are you self-taught or did you go to school for it?
For as long as I remember, I have been fascinated by artistic expression. I attended formal study both at York University in the Fine Arts program, and Ontario College of Art and Design. York University provided me with a deep appreciation of art history, while OCAD allowed me the freedom to express myself in an incredibly innovative, fearless manner.
What is your personal goal as an artist?
My goal as an artist is first and foremost to be proud of my creations and share my passion for the craft with as many people as possible. It gives me incredible satisfaction when others are able to derive pleasure from my creations and discover their own life-story in my work.
“Freeze” acrylic, oil, ink, enamel on birch, wood float frame (30”x 30”) $1,300
How do you title your artworks?
The process of naming my art is often a reflexive response to the creation. It is always spontaneous and natural as my art always conveys a strong personal message.
Do you have a particular piece that has a special connection to you?
Of all of my paintings, the one that is closest to my heart is one inspired by my children, my greatest creations.
“Dragon” acrylic, ink, oil on birch, wood float frame, (30”x 30”) $1,300
Who are some of your favourite artists?
Having studied art history and having visited many world-famous galleries, I am awe struck and overwhelmed by the works of Picasso, Monet, Modigliani, Chagall, and Miro (although my list could go on).
What is it like to be an artist in today’s world?
Being an artist is both maddening and transformative, as I serve as my harshest critic. At the same time, the creative process allows me to escape into a state of inner peace and tranquility.
“Dusty Rose” acrylic on stretched canvas, (42.5”x 51”) $2,500
What are you passionate about?
In today’s troubled world, being an artist affords me the ability to remain optimistic and inspired.
What does “Energy” mean to you?
Energy is the life force that I derive from my family and friends, and that ultimately manifests in my artistic expression in the form of colour and movement.
Energy at Twist
Don’t miss this one Toronto! Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. Our doors are open every Tuesday to Saturday from 11am till 6pm.
You can call us at (416) 588 - 2222 or email your questions and inquiries to info@twistgallery.ca.
And since you’re here, check out the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.
To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.
Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!
Source: @tanmay.art
“I'm a Toronto based marketer, passionately in love with colours. My venture into the joys of merging colours with canvas only began very recently. I look forward to seeing where this new voice for expression will lead. I enjoy creating abstract art - using acrylics primarily - and try to evoke a sense of beauty and inspiration through the interactions between colours as they find their place on the canvas. I endeavour to create pieces that produce the same passion for colours in others that I have always felt.”
“54 Shades of Happiness”, acrylic on canvas (32 x 48”), $600
“I LOVE LOVE LOVE colours. They make me happy, energize me and inspire me. My lifelong love for colours started quite early in my childhood. I grew up in a culture that is very colour-centric and that affected my sensibilities in the most positive way. My work on display at Twist Gallery screams COLOUR. I have employed bold, vibrant colours in a congrous manner, laid on the canvas using non-traditional painting tools. All my pieces also explore order in chaos. There is a sense of controlled randomness.”
“And a Very Good Evening to You Too Mr. Rothko”, acrylic on canvas (32 x 48”), $600
“Energy, to me, is the invigorating power of colours. Colours have immense transformative powers and are capable of affecting our moods and general well being. I hope that my work is able to channel this energy and help people feel the joy.”
Don’t miss this fantastic exhibition! Be sure to visit us at 1100 Queen Street West and check out our newest artists featured. Our doors are open every Tuesday to Saturday from 11am till 6pm.
You can call us at (416) 588 - 2222 or email your questions and inquiries to info@twistgallery.ca.
And since you’re here, why not browse the Twist Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.
To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.
Follow us @Twistgalleryand @TwistGallery!
So, you’ve just fallen in love with a piece of art you’ve seen in your local art gallery. You know that it would be the PERFECT addition to your home, so you pass through and buy it. The gallery director puts a little red sticker on it, signifying that this particular piece is spoken for; its dance card is full. Now comes the hard part: waiting for the exhibition to be over, so you can proudly display your new cherished treasure. But how should one display art? There must be rules to follow or a guideline? Sort of. Below are Twist Gallery’s 3 Tips for Hanging a Painting. Enjoy!
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3 TIPS FOR HANGING A PAINTING
🎨 Hang a painting by its focal point.
Every piece of art is exceptional and different. Art tells unique stories, boasts diverse triumphs and impacts viewers individually. Therefore, it’s your job; nay your duty, scratch that; your privilege to decide where the art’s focal point is located. Essentially, the focal point, is where the viewer’s eye is naturally drawn. Often times, this is the centre of the painting, however many artists play with asymmetry in space and varying scale. So, what does that mean? It’s up to you! You fell in love with this painting for a reason. Where does your eye naturally fall on the canvas? This part of the painting should be hung level with your eye.
For instance, check out this vivid piece by Sandra Di Leo below.
Figure 1 “Rebel” by Sandra Di Leo; 30 X 40 acrylic on canvas; $2,100
At Twist, we’ve been debating where one’s eye instinctively falls on Di Leo’s work. Some follow the curves of the powerful black lines reaching rest inside the circular shapes. However, other eyes tend to focus on the bright colours, especially the electrifying greens and glowing pinks. Wherever you decide the focal point is located, it should be hung close to eye level.
🎨 Carefully think about lighting the artwork.
Lighting can be tricky, especially if you don’t have track mounted lights at your home. You want to avoid direct sunlight because it can be very damaging to surfaces. Try to mount the art in a room with lots of natural indirect light. Also, you’ll want to give your artwork even light. This is why many gallery’s mount works on walls with numerous light sources to ensure an even amount of light bathing the canvas. Lastly, consider the type of light (if not natural light). Fluorescent light is awful for dramatic art. You’d be wise to stick with bulbs and light sources that replicate soft daylight. For example, take a glance at Courtney Senior’s “Where the Magic Happens”.
Figure 2 “Where the Magic Happens” by Courtney Senior; 48 x 48 acrylic on canvas; $2,000
As the bright colours shatter and splinter apart revealing the strong dark tones of the background, Senior’s expression is fully realized. A robust piece such as this requires a room full of indirect light. Any direct sunshine or incandescent light would overwhelm the already strong colour pallet presented.
🎨 Group pieces of art together for dramatic effect.
When you are decorating a space, consider how several paintings can work together. Perhaps the canvas’ were created by the same artist and represent similar thematic elements or feelings? Conversely, this can work when the paintings are dissimilar. Imagine the contrast and complication to viewers by pairing pieces that clash or challenge each other. Can you think of a time when artistic elements clashed so strongly that the effect was incredibly profound and memorable? After all, art is about expression and creativity. Ultimately, it's up to you. Consider the work of Elena Dinissuk featured next.
Figure 3 “Beach Tranquility” by Elena Dinissuk; 24 x 24 acrylic on wood; $500
Figure 4 “Flying Over the Ocean” by Elena Dinissuk; 24 x 24 acrylic on wood; $500
These two pieces compliment and accent each other. The wild and energetic ocean waters of the first painting is referenced by the same blue hues in the second. Furthermore, viewers regard the land and sky embodied with oranges and pale blues in the second painting. This only highlights the lack of land in the first painting. As viewers begin to consider both paintings simultaneously, they see elements that are repeated and elements that exists individually. Dinissuk’s work instigates an exciting story of the majestic mighty ocean and our beautiful planet.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our 3 tips for hanging a painting. And if you think we’ve missed anything, please comment below and let us know your tips. We’d also love to hear from anyone who has purchased from Twist Gallery in the past. How did you hang your art? Share a picture on Instagram and remember to tag us! @twistgalley
And since you’re here, why not check out the other artists in our Artist Showcase? CLICK HERE.
To see what’s Upcoming at Twist Gallery CLICK HERE.
Keep us in your focal point by following us @Twistgallery and @TwistGallery!
