Discovering Indigenous Canada

Discovering Indigenous Canada – A Journey Through the University of Alberta Course

Recently, I had the privilege of diving deep into Indigenous culture in Canada through a fascinating and eye-opening course: Indigenous Canada, a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) offered by the Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. This 12-lesson program explores the histories, contemporary realities, and diverse perspectives of Indigenous peoples, discovering Indigenous Canada.

From the fur trade to political activism, land claims to artistic expression, the course offers an in-depth, critical lens on Indigenous-settler relations, both past and present. It also examines how Indigenous voices continue to shape Canada’s cultural and political landscape today. Whether you’re an artist, educator, or simply a curious learner, this course offers a rich and necessary perspective that fills in the glaring gaps left by traditional Canadian history education.

A Transformative Learning Experience

Throughout the course, I was immersed in a wide range of topics, including:

✅ The fur trade and early exchange relationships
✅ Land claims and their environmental impacts
✅ Indigenous legal systems and rights
✅ Political conflicts, alliances, and activism
✅ The vibrancy of contemporary Indigenous art and pop culture

With 12 modules and an exam at the end of each, the course takes approximately 12 weeks to complete if you dedicate around 3 hours per week. The lessons are clear, accessible, and packed with insightful video lectures, readings, and interviews with Indigenous scholars and artists.

Discovering Indigenous Canada – The Power of Storytelling and Art

Two modules, in particular, resonated deeply with me.

1. The Significance of Storytelling
The first module introduced the vital role of oral traditions and storytelling in Indigenous societies. Stories are not simply narratives—they are powerful vessels for history, identity, and cultural knowledge. This module offered a profound reminder of the importance of preserving and honouring these voices, which carry the wisdom of generations.

2. Indigenous Art and Pop Culture
The final module was a highlight, exploring the dynamic landscape of contemporary Indigenous Canadian art. It celebrated the diversity of Indigenous creativity—from quillwork and beadwork to painting, sculpture, and digital media. The course revealed how contemporary Indigenous artists are reshaping mainstream narratives and reclaiming their stories through decolonial expression.

Spotlight on Indigenous Artists

The course introduces us to several remarkable Indigenous artists whose works have transformed the Canadian art landscape:

🎨 Daphne Odjig – Often referred to as the “grandmother of Indigenous art,” Odjig’s work pushed artistic boundaries, blending cubism, surrealism, and Indigenous symbolism. Her paintings shed light on colonialism, Indigenous women’s struggles, and broader political issues.

🪶 Christi Belcourt – Known for her intricate, nature-inspired beadwork paintings, Belcourt’s work celebrates Indigenous spirituality and environmental activism. She made waves in the fashion world by collaborating with Valentino to create haute couture collections featuring Indigenous designs.

🧱 Rebecca Belmore – A powerful voice in contemporary Indigenous art, Belmore’s work often speaks to colonialism, displacement, and resilience. Her large-scale installation Trace at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights involved over 10,000 clay beads, shaped by the public, symbolizing the enduring presence of Indigenous people in Canada.

Water Song by Christi Belcourt

Discovering Indigenous Canada – Why You Should Take This Course

The Indigenous Canada course offers much more than historical facts—it offers a deeper, more honest understanding of Canada’s complex and often painful history through the eyes of Indigenous people. It’s a course that should be mandatory in Canadian schools, as it addresses the missing pieces of our collective knowledge.

For me, it was both an educational and creative journey. As an artist, the course expanded my perspective, inspiring me to think more critically about the representation of Indigenous stories and symbolism in contemporary art.

If you’re interested in learning, unlearning, and broadening your understanding of Canada, I highly recommend enrolling in this course. It’s not just about history—it’s about listening, reflecting, and acknowledging the voices that have long been silenced.

👉 Learn more and enroll here: University of Alberta – Indigenous Canada

Rage On, 24×18, acrylic and oil on canvas, 2023, Brandy Saturley

March 20, 2025

Elected to the SCA

Art Career, Art History

Elected to the Society of Canadian Artists

In June this year, the Society of Canadian Artists will celebrate new Elected Members at their Annual General Meeting at the Arts & Letters Club in Toronto, Ontario. As a professional Canadian Artist with nearly twenty years in the Canadian Art business, Brandy Saturley is honoured to be elected to the SCA a talented and dedicated group of Canadian Arts professionals. The Arts & Letters Club of Toronto is a vibrant private members’ club that brings together creative and performing artists, writers, architects, musicians, painters, graphic artists, and more. Established in 1908, it champions the arts in English Canada. The St George’s Hall at 14 Elm Street is a Toronto landmark — a building with a lively history of remarkable colour and vivacity in a convenient downtown location. It has been designated a building of National Historic Significance by the Government of Canada. The focus of Club life and activity is the Great Hall, a splendid room with a cathedral ceiling, and wonderfully tongue-in-cheek banners by J.E.H. MacDonald celebrating the names of illustrious early Members. Celebrated club members include; A.Y. Jackson, Vincent Massey and J.E.H MacDonald.

What is the SCA? (Society of Canadian Artists)

The Society of Canadian Artists (SCA) is a national, non-profit artists’ organization dedicated to expanding the visibility and stature of the visual arts in Canada. In a country so creatively diverse, art is an anthem. Officially founded in 1972 (although germinating since 1957), the SCA is the young, national, non-profit artists’ organization born to foster and celebrate the visual arts and artists in Canada. They are a collection of some of the country’s most committed traditional and new media artists welcoming the new, the up-and-coming and the established.

Let Your Backbone Rise, 36×36, acrylic on canvas, 2016, Brandy Saturley

Elected to the SCA: What Does it Mean to be an elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists?

Being an Elected Member of the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA) is a prestigious recognition for professional artists who have undergone a rigorous adjudication process. Being an Elected Member of the SCA signifies recognition, commitment, and active participation in the vibrant world of Canadian visual arts. Carrying the SCA designation signifies recognition, commitment, and active participation in the world of Canadian Visual Arts.

Brandy Saturley Studio, North Saanich, BC, Canada – 2020

Who are some notable current and past elected Canadian member artists of the SCA?

The Society of Canadian Artists (SCA) boasts a roster of talented artists who have made significant contributions to the Canadian art scene.

While we don’t have an exhaustive list, here are a few notable members:

Ray Phelps: Served as President of the SCA.
Tom Chatfield: Another past President who left his mark on the organization.
Pat Fairhead: An accomplished artist associated with the SCA.
D. Bellerby: Contributed to the SCA’s vibrant community.
Ina Gilbert: Known for her artistic endeavors within the SCA.
Ron Bolt: A respected member who has enriched the SCA’s legacy.
Claire Kerwin: Her work has been influential in the Canadian art world.
Tibor Kovalik: An artist whose creativity resonates with many.
A. Meredith Barry: Contributed to the SCA’s growth and vibrancy.
Kazuo Hamasaki: His artistic journey has left an indelible mark.
Janet Newcome Basmadjian: An artist who embodies the spirit of the SCA.

Contributions to the Artistic Community

In nearly two decades as a professional full-time Canadian artist, 17 of those years self-representing, my contributions have been numerous and oftentimes undocumented I believe an important part of my responsibility as a professional Canadian Visual Artist is to be an educator. As artists in this Canadian Art community I believe our role is to educate every person we encounter about Art and the Arts in Canada.

Brandy Saturley in her Vancouver Island Studio, 2022

In 2018, Saturley was honoured to be juried into the 50th Annual International Exhibition and her painting, Balance, appeared on the catalogue cover for the exhibition, held at Papermill Gallery in Toronto.

May 21, 2024

The Multiverse of Art

Art History, Opinion

Talking Historical Canadian Art – The Multiverse of Art

I had a conversation with an art dealer the other day, it was about contemporary Canadian Art versus Historical Canadian Art. Myself being a Canadian artist, and a contemporary Canadian Artist at that, I have a unique perspective, particularly in today’s world, about the importance and significance of contemporary Canadian Art. I also believe we are in a period of revolution in The Arts, perhaps we are entering the Multiverse of Art period?

Let Your Backbone Rise, 2016, Brandy Saturley – Private Collection Quebec

Can contemporary art also be considered historical?

Yes, contemporary art can indeed be considered historical. While contemporary art refers to art created in the present time or within recent decades, it eventually becomes a part of history as time passes. Art reflects the social, cultural, and political contexts in which it was created, and as such, it serves as a historical record of the era in which it was produced. Furthermore, contemporary art often responds to and engages with historical events, ideologies, and artistic movements. Artists may draw inspiration from past historical periods, reinterpret them in contemporary contexts, or directly address historical narratives and themes in their work. As contemporary art ages, it becomes increasingly significant as a reflection of the time in which it was made, offering insights into the concerns, values, and perspectives of that period. Therefore, contemporary art not only contributes to our understanding of the present but also becomes an essential part of the historical record for future generations.

Sold Out, 2023, Brandy Saturley – Private Collection Alberta

Could this be considered the multiverse of art?

The idea of contemporary art as a “multiverse” is an interesting metaphorical concept. In a way, the term “multiverse” suggests the coexistence of multiple parallel universes or realities. Similarly, in the realm of art, contemporary art encompasses a diverse range of styles, movements, and perspectives, all existing simultaneously.

Just as in a multiverse, where each universe may have its own set of rules and characteristics, contemporary art reflects a multitude of artistic expressions, influenced by various cultural, social, and individual factors. These diverse artistic realities intersect and interact, creating a complex and dynamic landscape of creative exploration. Like the concept of branching timelines in a multiverse, contemporary art often diverges from traditional norms and conventions, offering alternative narratives, perspectives, and approaches to artistic expression. This multiplicity allows for the exploration of different ideas, identities, and experiences within the artistic realm.

So, while contemporary art may not adhere to a singular, unified narrative or style, its richness and diversity can indeed be likened to a multiverse, where myriad artistic possibilities coexist and intersect, shaping the ever-evolving landscape of art history.

With Hearts on Our Sleeves, 2017, Brandy Saturley – Private Collection Ontario

What can contemporary artists bring to your exhibit or gallery?

Contemporary artists can bring a fresh perspective, innovative interpretations, and provocative dialogues to a historical exhibit. Here are some ways in which they can enrich such an exhibition:

Reinterpretation of History: Contemporary artists can reinterpret historical events, figures, and narratives through their unique lens. Their perspectives may challenge conventional interpretations and offer new insights into familiar historical themes.

Engagement with Current Issues: Many contemporary artists engage with pressing social, political, and cultural issues. By addressing these concerns within a historical context, they can highlight the relevance and continuity of certain themes throughout history.

Dialogue with Tradition: Contemporary artists often engage in dialogues with art history and tradition. They may reference, critique, or reinterpret works from the past, creating a dynamic interplay between historical and contemporary artistic practices.

Exploration of Identity and Memory: Contemporary artists frequently explore themes of identity, memory, and heritage. Their works can shed light on marginalized histories, amplify diverse voices, and challenge dominant narratives within historical exhibitions.

On Guard, 2013, Brandy Saturley – Colart Collection Quebec

Experimentation with Mediums and Technologies: Contemporary art embraces a wide range of mediums and technologies, from traditional painting and sculpture to digital art and multimedia installations. Integrating these innovative approaches into historical exhibits can enhance audience engagement and offer new ways of experiencing history.

Reflection on Time and Continuity: Through their artwork, contemporary artists often reflect on the passage of time and the continuity of human experiences across different historical periods. Their contributions can add layers of complexity and nuance to our understanding of history as a living, evolving narrative.

To The See, 2017, Brandy Saturley – Collection of The Artist

By inviting contemporary artists to participate in historical exhibits, curators can create dynamic and multifaceted experiences that bridge the past and present, encouraging viewers to reconsider familiar narratives and explore new perspectives on history.

So, Can contemporary art also be considered historical? the short answer is YES.

April 9, 2024

Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent

Art History, Opinion

Natural Affinities: Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent

As a Canadian artist deeply connected to the rugged beauty of my homeland, I find myself inexorably drawn to the works of Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent. The artistry of these two painters has had a profound influence on my own creative journey, inspiring and shaping my unique painting style. Harris’s ability to distill the essence of Canadian landscapes into mystical abstractions resonates with my soul, while Kent’s romantic realism kindles a sense of longing for untouched wilderness. While they may have worked in different styles and contexts, their works share striking similarities, revealing natural affinities between the two painters. In this blog post, we will delve into the artistic journeys of Harris and Kent, examining their contrasting styles and analyzing the common threads that bind their masterpieces.

Art has the extraordinary power to capture the essence of the world and transport viewers to different realms. In the realm of landscape painting, Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent stand as giants, each leaving an indelible mark on the art world.

Lawren Harris: Mystical Abstractions

Lawren Harris, a prominent member of the Group of Seven, was renowned for his abstract and spiritual interpretations of the Canadian landscape. His paintings often depicted rugged mountains, icy glaciers, and vast stretches of untouched wilderness. Harris possessed an uncanny ability to distill nature’s raw power and transform it into something ethereal.

Harris’s works, such as “North Shore, Lake Superior” and “Mount Lefroy,” showcased his affinity for simplicity and abstraction. He employed bold lines, geometric shapes, and a restricted color palette to capture the essence of the subject matter. The resulting images exuded a sense of serenity and mysticism, evoking a profound emotional response from viewers.

North Shore, Lake Superior – Lawren Harris 1926

Rockwell Kent: Realism with a Romantic Touch

Rockwell Kent, on the other hand, was an American artist whose paintings encompassed both realistic and romantic elements. His artistic journey led him to various locales, including Alaska, Greenland, and Newfoundland, which greatly influenced his subject matter. Kent’s works portrayed expansive landscapes, seascapes, and the human figure against majestic natural backdrops.

Kent’s paintings, such as “Moonlight, Winter” and “Monhegan Night,” captivated audiences with their meticulous attention to detail. His command over light and shadow, combined with a rich color palette, brought his scenes to life. Kent’s romantic sensibilities infused his work with a touch of nostalgia, inviting viewers to contemplate the vastness and beauty of the natural world.

Moonlight Winter – Rockwell Kent 1940

Natural Affinities and Common Threads

Despite the differences in their styles and geographical influences, Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent’s works reveal surprising commonalities, suggesting a natural affinity between the two painters.

Both artists shared a deep reverence for nature and sought to capture its sublime qualities. Harris and Kent depicted landscapes that inspired awe and contemplation, inviting viewers to connect with the grandeur of the natural world. Their paintings transported viewers to remote and untouched locations, offering a respite from the modern world’s hustle and bustle. They both also embraced a sense of spirituality in their work. Harris’s abstract compositions and Kent’s romanticized scenes transcended the physical realm, hinting at something greater and more profound. Whether through Harris’s simplified shapes or Kent’s ethereal lighting, both artists infused their works with a spiritual dimension, elevating the ordinary to the extraordinary.

Harris and Kent possessed a keen eye for composition. Harris’s bold lines and geometric forms provided structure and harmony to his landscapes, while Kent’s meticulous attention to detail created balanced and visually captivating scenes. Both artists had an innate ability to arrange elements within the frame, leading the viewer’s eye and creating a sense of visual poetry.

Where Icebergs Roam Free – Brandy Saturley 2016

Lawren Harris and Rockwell Kent, despite their unique styles and influences, shared a remarkable bond through their artistic explorations of the natural world. Harris’s mystical abstractions and Kent’s romantic realism offer distinct but complementary perspectives on the power and beauty of nature. Their works elevate the landscape to a spiritual experience, where nature becomes a source of awe and contemplation. Through their mastery of composition, use of color, and ability to capture the sublime, Harris and Kent have left an indelible mark on the art world. Their legacies continue to inspire artists, like myself, to seek the inherent beauty and spirituality in the natural world and share it with audiences worldwide.

June 10, 2023

Five Significant Paintings

Art History

A Journey through Five Significant Paintings by Brandy Saturley.

Art has the incredible power to captivate and inspire us, evoking emotions, and deep contemplation. Brandy Saturley, a contemporary Canadian artist, has created a series of thought-provoking paintings that invite us into her world. In this blog post, we will explore the significance and impact of five remarkable works by Saturley: “Let Your Backbone Rise,” “With Hearts on Our Sleeves,” “Goalie’s Mask: red, white & Dryden,” “Ukraine Strong,” and “Canadiens Gothic.” Each painting conveys a unique narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of identity, resilience, passion, and cultural pride. Here are Five Significant Paintings, by Brandy Saturley.

“Let Your Backbone Rise” is a mesmerizing piece that symbolizes strength, courage, and determination. Saturley’s use of bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes creates a powerful visual impact, reflecting the unwavering spirit within us all. The painting reminds us to embrace our inner resilience, to stand tall even in the face of adversity. Saturley’s portrayal of the human figure with an upright backbone serves as a metaphor for personal growth and self-belief. “Let Your Backbone Rise” encourages viewers to tap into their own inner strength and conquer the challenges that life presents.

In “With Hearts on Our Sleeves,” Saturley delves into the complexities of human emotion and vulnerability. The painting captures a sense of raw honesty and authenticity, depicting figures with exposed hearts on their sleeves. This evocative imagery serves as a reminder of the power and beauty found in embracing our emotions fully. Saturley’s work prompts us to appreciate the courage it takes to be vulnerable and encourages us to connect with our own emotions and those of others. “With Hearts on Our Sleeves” speaks to the universal desire for genuine connections and the importance of empathy in our daily lives.

Five Significant Paintings: The Goalie’s Mask Painting

“Goalie’s Mask: red, white & Dryden” pays tribute to the iconic goaltender Ken Dryden, immortalizing him in art. The painting captures the intensity and focus of a goalie, with vibrant red and white hues symbolizing the national pride associated with the sport. Through this piece, Saturley celebrates not only Dryden’s athletic prowess but also the cultural significance of hockey in Canadian identity. By combining elements of portraiture and sports imagery, “Goalie’s Mask” underscores the passion and dedication that unite communities across Canada, reminding us of the shared love and pride associated with our national sport.

“Ukraine Strong” is a visually stunning work that explores the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Saturley’s use of vibrant blue and yellow hues, the colors of the Ukrainian flag, symbolizes unity and national pride. The painting serves as a homage to the struggles and triumphs of the Ukrainian community, acknowledging their resilience in the face of adversity. Saturley’s representation of a traditional Ukrainian headdress, known as a “vinok,” further emphasizes the connection to Ukrainian culture and heritage. “Ukraine Strong” invites viewers to reflect on the power of cultural identity and the enduring spirit of a nation.

Painting draws inspiration from Grant Wood’s famous “American Gothic”

In “Canadiens Gothic,” Saturley merges the worlds of art and hockey once again, paying homage to the Montreal Canadiens, an iconic team in the National Hockey League. The painting draws inspiration from Grant Wood’s famous “American Gothic,” replacing the stoic farmers with hockey enthusiasts, proudly donning hockey jersey and bunny hug. The painting is a hockey heritage homage to the rich history and cultural significance of the Montreal Canadiens hockey team. This artwork symbolizes the deep-rooted connection between the team and its passionate fans, highlighting the role of hockey as a unifying force in Canadian culture. The Montreal Canadiens hold a storied legacy, boasting a record 24 Stanley Cup championships, making them one of the most successful franchises in NHL history. By merging art and sports, Saturley captures the essence of the Canadiens’ enduring popularity and the unwavering loyalty of their fanbase. The painting invites viewers to reflect on the historical significance of the team and its impact on the collective identity of Montreal and the broader hockey community. “Canadiens Gothic” stands as a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together, fostering a sense of belonging, and celebrating the heritage that intertwines the love of the game with a deep-rooted sense of pride and camaraderie.

Saturley recently spoke to Canadian Art Today about the significance of her paintings about Canada created over the past decade.

May 17, 2023

Self-Portrait Artist

Art History, Artist Process

Ultimately, I am a Self-Portrait Artist

I never set-out on this journey of painting looking to become a famous self-portrait artist. Self-portraits have always been a popular form of art, allowing artists to express themselves and create a visual representation of their inner thoughts and feelings. Three artists who have become particularly well-known for their self-portraits are Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Frida Kahlo. Each of these artists has created a unique and recognizable style of self-portrait that speaks to their individual personalities and experiences.

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn was a Dutch painter, who is considered one of the greatest artists in European history. Born in 1606, he painted over 40 self-portraits during his lifetime, which is an astonishing number compared to most other artists of his time. One of his most famous self-portraits is the painting “Self-Portrait with Two Circles” from 1665-1669. In this portrait, Rembrandt is shown wearing a fur-trimmed coat and a large hat, with his head tilted slightly to the side. The two circles in the background have been interpreted in many different ways, with some saying they represent the artist’s eyes, while others believe they are a symbol of his artistic skill.

Self-Portrait with Two Circles by Rembrandt van Rijn

His self-portraits are not only an insight into his own personality, but also a reflection of the society and culture in which he lived.

One of the things that makes Rembrandt’s self-portraits so unique is his ability to capture the inner essence of his subjects. His portraits are not just a reflection of his physical appearance, but also his emotions and psychological state. He was known for using dramatic lighting and shadow to create a sense of depth and intensity in his work. His self-portraits are not only an insight into his own personality, but also a reflection of the society and culture in which he lived.

Vincent van Gogh was a Dutch post-impressionist painter, who is known for his bold and colorful paintings. Born in 1853, he painted around 43 self-portraits during his lifetime. One of his most famous self-portraits is “Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear” from 1889. In this portrait, Van Gogh is shown with a bandage over his ear, which he famously cut off in a fit of madness. The painting is notable for its use of bright, contrasting colors, and the intense gaze of the artist.

Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear, Vincent Van Gogh

His self-portraits are not only a reflection of his own personality, but also a celebration of the natural world and the beauty of everyday life.

Van Gogh’s self-portraits are characterized by his use of bold brushstrokes and vivid colors. His paintings often convey a sense of emotion and raw energy, reflecting the inner turmoil and passion of the artist. He was known for his use of thick impasto, which gives his paintings a tactile quality and a sense of depth. His self-portraits are not only a reflection of his own personality, but also a celebration of the natural world and the beauty of everyday life.

Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter, who is known for her bold and colorful self-portraits. Born in 1907, she painted around 55 self-portraits during her lifetime. One of her most famous self-portraits is “Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird” from 1940. In this portrait, Kahlo is shown wearing a necklace of thorns and a dead hummingbird, which is a symbol of death in Mexican culture. The painting is notable for its use of vibrant colors and intricate details, and the intense gaze of the artist.

Self-Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird, Frida Kahlo

Her self-portraits are not only a reflection of her own personality, but also a celebration of Mexican culture and traditions.

Kahlo’s self-portraits are characterized by her use of bright colors, intricate patterns, and symbolic imagery. Her paintings often convey a sense of pain and suffering, reflecting the physical and emotional struggles she faced throughout her life. She was known for her use of surreal and dreamlike imagery, which added a sense of mystery and complexity to her work. Her self-portraits are not only a reflection of her own personality, but also a celebration of Mexican culture and traditions.

If you are an artist, you absolutely are creating autobiography in your work. Your work is a record of your time on Earth and how all those experiences you have filter through your artist lens and pour out onto the canvas. For some painters this includes painting your self-portrait over a number of years, as your artist voice develops and evolves. Every year I paint a self-portrait, examining my place in the world and commenting on my journey as an artist. Perhaps through painting myself at different times in my life it is a record of my time in this world as an Artist. I paint myself into these paintings because I suppose I am looking for myself in the world.

Dochka Rising, 2023 self-portrait of the Canadian Artist, Brandy Saturley

My self-portraits are not only a reflection of my personality, but also a celebration my Ukrainian Canadian culture and perspective on the collective Canadian consciousness.

In this most recent portrait, ‘Dochka Rising’ I have placed myself in the foreground, I am looking up casting my gaze upwards. My face is dressed in shadows casting stripes across my face and hair. On the lower portion of hair you see symbols and pattern from weaving my Ukrainian great-grandmother made, passed down to me by my mother. At this time in my life my parents are aging fast and things are changing daily. My mother who was my earliest mentor in art and life, is now requiring our care. I am feeling the need to take time and connect more deeply to my cultural roots, which includes Ukrainian, British and Canadian. As I begin inheriting pieces from my Ukrainian great-grandmother I am discovering my family heritage; woven with arts, crafts, symbols and stories. As my career and work as a Canadian Artist continues to ascend, the depth of my work grows with renewed excitement and explorations of my Canadian consciousness.

In conclusion, self-portraits have been created by many artists throughout history and have been used as a means of self-expression and self-reflection. Many artists have used self-portraits to explore their own identities, emotions, and inner thoughts, and to communicate these ideas to others through their art. Self-portrait artists may also use their works to document their physical appearance over time or to make a statement about the human condition.

See more self-portrait paintings by Brandy Saturley and her comments on Canadian painter, Lawren Harris.

May 1, 2023

Women Painters To Know

Art History, Women Painters

Celebrating the Contributions of Women Painters

International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8th to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a day to celebrate women’s achievements and reflect on the progress that still needs to be made towards gender equality. One area where women have historically faced barriers is in the world of art, where male artists have often been more celebrated and recognized. However, there have been many talented women painters throughout history who have made significant contributions to the world of art. In this post, we will highlight some of the women painters we should know about.

Let Your Backbone Rise, Acrylic painting, 2016 Brandy Saturley

Frida Kahlo – Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist known for her self-portraits and surrealism. Her work explored themes of identity, gender, and class, and she is regarded as one of Mexico’s greatest painters.
Mary Cassatt – Mary Cassatt was an American painter known for her depictions of the lives of women and children. She was one of the few female Impressionists and her work often depicted intimate moments of everyday life.
Artemisia Gentileschi – Artemisia Gentileschi was an Italian Baroque painter who is best known for her depictions of strong and powerful women from mythology and the Bible. Her work challenged the male-dominated art world of the time.
Georgia O’Keeffe – Georgia O’Keeffe was an American painter known for her vibrant depictions of flowers, landscapes, and bones. Her work was often considered feminist for its focus on women’s bodies and sexuality.
Yayoi Kusama – Yayoi Kusama is a Japanese artist known for her polka-dot and infinity room installations. Her work explores themes of identity, femininity, and the relationship between the individual and the universe.
Leonora Carrington – Leonora Carrington was a British-born Mexican artist known for her surrealist paintings and sculptures. Her work often featured hybrid creatures and explored themes of transformation and the unconscious.
Berthe Morisot – Berthe Morisot was a French Impressionist painter and one of the few female members of the Impressionist movement. Her work often depicted scenes of domestic life and women’s daily routines.
Alice Neel – Alice Neel was an American painter known for her portraits, particularly of people living in poverty and those from marginalized communities. Her work challenged the norms of portraiture and the portrayal of the human form.
Tamara de Lempicka – Tamara de Lempicka was a Polish Art Deco painter known for her portraits of wealthy and glamorous women. Her work was often sexually suggestive and challenged traditional notions of femininity.
Prudence Heward was a Canadian figure painter, known for using acidic colour, a sculptural treatment, and giving an intense brooding quality to her subjects. One of the Beaver Hall Group of painters, she was also a charter member of the Canadian Group of Painters, the Contemporary Arts Society and the Federation of Canadian Artists.

Personally, the portraiture and landscape paintings of O’Keeffe, Lempicka and Heward have made significant impressions on my work as an artist, including this homage to the famous painting, ‘Saint Moritz’ by Lempicka.

Saint Kanata, Acrylic painting, 48 x 36 x 1.5 in, 2011, Brandy Saturley

These are just a few of the many talented women painters who have made significant contributions to the world of art. On International Women’s Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women artists throughout history and continue to support and uplift the voices of women in the arts.

February 28, 2023