No Dress Rehearsal

Presenting Your Art to an Audience for the First Time, There is No Dress Rehearsal

Watching the recent documentary, No Dress Rehearsal, about Canadian Artists The Tragically Hip felt like discovering an old friend in a new light. For much of my career, I was working in parallel to The Hip, exploring Canadian themes in my art without really knowing their music. But over the past decade, I fully embraced The Hip and their incredible ability to capture Canada through song. Now, their music has become a staple in my studio, often playing in the background and setting the tone for my own brand of visual storytelling.

The Tragically Hip felt like reconnecting with an old friend, a reminder of why this band has come to hold such a special place in my heart—and in my work. Their poetic lyrics, which touch on history, geography, and the quirks of Canadian identity, often reverberate in the background while I’m in the studio, setting the tone as I paint my own interpretations of Canada.

What resonates most is how much we have in common: a deep love for Canada and a unique approach to weaving stories—The Hip through lyrics and music, and me through paint on canvas. Their songs remind me of the power of a well-told story, something I strive to achieve in my paintings, which are rooted in our landscapes, icons, and cultural symbols. We share a commitment to travel across Canada, exploring both big cities and rural communities. Just as they tirelessly toured, I’m inspired by the places and people I encounter, gathering stories and images to shape my work. Traveling from coast to coast to coast, I gain a broader understanding of what it means to be Canadian—a theme that’s central to both their music and my own work.

There’s also that distinctly Canadian quirkiness we both bring to our work. Just as The Hip were known for their playful, sometimes ironic take on what it means to be Canadian, I work to bring a similar spirit to my art. My paintings often include playful Canadian motifs, like plaid, hockey stories, rural locations, and landscapes that feel instantly familiar, yet they invite viewers to look deeper. This approach makes me feel like I’m part of the broader Canadian narrative The Hip helped shape, just in a different medium.

The Hip’s legacy is more than musical; it’s a cultural marker, inspiring artists like me to explore Canada in all its complexity. With their songs playing in my studio, I feel connected to that same spirit, driven to create paintings that speak to what it means to be Canadian. Their influence helps me set the tone and pace as I bring my own vision of Canada to life on canvas.

Working with The Hip’s music as my backdrop, I’m constantly inspired by their ability to bring Canada to life in ways that are both personal and universally relatable. As I paint, their music pushes me to explore what it means to be Canadian, just as they did through their lyrics. And with their songs filling the studio, I find myself weaving together my own stories of Canada, capturing the essence of our shared home one canvas at a time. There is no dress rehearsal when it comes to being an artist and laying your heart on the line.

More about The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal here.

More about Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley here:

October 29, 2024

Plaid in Canada

Canadian Paintings

Six Paintings Telling Tales of Plaid in Canada

Growing up in the 1970s in a province known for its trees and logging, I became deeply familiar with the Canadian uniform of plaid. My father worked in the forestry industry, and he wore those heavy wool plaid jackets with metal snaps—the quintessential attire for his trade. Plaid was everywhere, from the beaches littered with runaway logs to the backs of loggers, lumberjacks, and fishermen. But the tradition of plaid in Canada reaches back much further than my childhood memories.

Plaid’s roots in Canada trace back to Scottish immigrants who brought their tartan patterns with them to Nova Scotia. These early settlers, struggling to survive in a new and rugged land, carried with them not only their fabrics but their values of hard work, community, and perseverance. The plaid flannel shirt evolved into a symbol of the Canadian Everyman—approachable, hardworking, and unpretentious. It evokes a sense of homegrown authenticity, embodying the spirit of “nice Canadians” who work together for the common good.

Over the decades, plaid has been worn by some of Canada’s most iconic figures—from the fictional Bob and Doug McKenzie and the famous Quinlan Quints to the legendary Neil Young, the elder statesman of flannel. The plaid shirt has become an unofficial emblem of Canada itself, representing the land of the True North, strong and free. It’s a fabric that transcends divisions. Plaid isn’t just one color—it’s red, blue, black, and white—a patchwork that mirrors Canada’s diverse yet unified identity.

Plaid’s resurgence today, especially among the youth of 2024, underscores its lasting appeal. Companies like Dixxon Flannel have breathed new life into the fabric, infusing it with pop culture flair and turning it into a fashion statement for a new generation. Plaid, once the uniform of loggers and fishermen, now proudly adorns the backs of men and women from all walks of life, whether at work, at the opera, on the outdoor rink, or even on a wedding night. It’s no wonder Elon Musk named his premium Tesla the PLAID model X.

As a Canadian artist dedicated to telling the stories of the Canadian experience, plaid has naturally woven itself into my work. From still life to larger explorations of Canadian identity, plaid serves as a visual metaphor for the strength, warmth, and resilience of the people who wear it. Most recently, I completed a still life of two plaid shirts hanging on a stark white wall—a quiet homage to this enduring symbol of Canadian culture.

Brandy Saturley wearing her Dixxon flannel plaid shirt, 2024.

Here are six paintings that tell the tale of plaid in Canada and beyond, offering a glimpse into how this simple fabric continues to inspire and connect us.

Come on Just Let’s Go – acrylic on canvas painting, 2024 – Brandy Saturley

2. With Hearts on Our Sleeves, acrylic on canvas painting, 2017 – Brandy Saturley

3. Ukraine Strong, acrylic on canvas, 2022 – Brandy Saturley

4. Son of Canada, acrylic on canvas, 2022 – Brandy Saturley

5. Tulip Tartan – Red, acrylic and gold leaf on canvas painting, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

6. Tartan Tulip – Lemon, acrylic and gold leaf on canvas, 2023 – Brandy Saturley

See more paintings by Brandy Saturley here.

October 23, 2024

Wildlife Paintings Abstract Backgrounds

Canadian Paintings

Realistic Wildlife Paintings With Imaginative Abstract Backgrounds

I walk daily through the nature trails surrounding my Vancouver Island home. This week alone I have seen Hawks hunting, a gaggle of Canada Geese, Pheasants and Quail, not to mention frogs and snakes. It is an endless changing seasonal view and cast of characters. When we travel to Alberta and across Canada on road trips we have the opportunity to larger beasts such as elk, bighorn sheep, moose and even polar bear. Although I have never seen a moose or polar bear in the wild, they are never far from my imagination and have found their way into several paintings over the years. Creating realistic wildlife paintings of my Canadian experiences, set against abstract backgrounds of wonder and imagination.

From elk to polar bears, I have found myself creating realistic imagery of these animals against abstract backgrounds of shape form and colour. Sometimes representing the northern lights or even the reflection of light through rainy mist or ice crystals, these paintings offer fanciful worlds of wonder and a spectrum of colours.

Here are a few realistic wildlife paintings with abstract backgrounds;

Polar Play – painting of polar bear on abstract background, 2024

Modern Canadian Elk – painting of elk on abstract background, 2022

Only the Blue Jay Knows, painting of elk, blue jay and hummingbird on abstract background

The Other Kind of Wildlife Paintings, Humans in the Wilderness

While these paintings feature humans and not polar bears, they do fit into the same genre of realistic focal points of human form, set against fanciful and imaginative backgrounds, something I continue to explore in my recent paintings about Canada.

Dreaming Under Northern Lights, painting of girl in parka set against abstract forms and colours of The North in winter, 2022

Looking for The Icebergs, paintings of a woman with binoculars set against icebergs and abstract shapes and colours, 2021

On Top of Nanaimo Bars, realistic woman skating atop a stack of Nanaimo Bars with abstract and realistic details, 2022

September 26, 2024

Jasper Alberta Paintings

Canadian Paintings, New Paintings

An Ode to Jasper, Alberta – Paintings That Celebrate A Special Place

With Jasper on our minds and in our hearts it was time to put brush to canvas and make some paintings that express my love for the beauty of this special place filled with Rocky Mountains and wonderous road trips in Alberta.

What better way to traverse these landscapes than in a cherry red Tesla, where no sound and no fumes are created, impeding the enjoyment of this pristine place of wild momentous beauty. Autumn colours and golden hour highlights the curves and shapes of the hard and soft edges where the road, meets the tree-line and then rises to the Rocky Mountains.

Over the years we have enjoyed many road trips through beautiful Jasper, Banff and much of the Rocky Mountains, lakes and prairies province of Alberta. There is nothing quite like the feeling you get when you are dwarfed by nature and feel so small against the powerful giants as their peaks play with the clouds and light of these rapidly changing skies. Brisk forest air and wildlife abounds in these landscapes offering discovery around every corner.

Here are two recent paintings featuring views from the passenger seat and through the window.

Sound of Silence: painting of mountains and forest from the road entering Jasper National Park

Momentous: painting of mountains driving through Jasper National Park featuring red Tesla

Paintings for Mountain Lovers: Nine Paintings from Jasper to Banff, Alberta

Earlier paintings by Brandy Saturley featuring imagery inspired by Banff and the Rocky Mountains of Alberta. From BC to Alberta, including Mount Robson the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and Waterton Lakes. From glacial peaks in Banff National Park to Lake Louise. Nine paintings capture the exhilaration of the peaks they depict. The series originally titled, ‘I See Mountains’ offers supersaturated palettes and vivid pop art outlines. Like neon signs, these mountains vibrate and light up any room.

September 19, 2024

Weird Art in Canada

Canadian Art, Canadian Paintings

What Makes Art Unique – Weird Art in Canada

Having recently returned from an art trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico I came home with a new appreciation for the quirky and even absurdities in Art. Weird art captivates our imagination by pushing boundaries and challenging norms. It reveals aspects of life and human creativity that we rarely encounter. From George Condo’s portraits to modern works like Damien Hirst’s pickled shark, these pieces provoke curiosity, intrigue, and sometimes even discomfort. So, in its eccentricity, weird art invites us to explore the unexpected and embrace the unconventional. Making weird art in Canada.

Sometimes referred to as ‘quirk’, ‘lowbrow’ or ‘funny’ – their have been many weird artworks that have captured our attention, for generations, and we are still talking about these works in the contemporary world. Whether it be ‘American Gothic’, The Scream or the melting clocks of Dali, weird art transcends genres and movements and can be found worldwide. Surreal, whimsical, or absurd art provides an escape from mundane reality. It invites us into fantastical worlds, sparking imagination.

In Canada, we are known as having our own quirky brand of humour, that is distinctly our own. Having travelled across the country over the past two decades soaking up the uniqueness that is Canada, I can attest to the weird wonderfulness that is Canada, but this is not reflected in most of our art galleries, which strikes me as odd. As the ‘Iconic Canuck’ I took my weird and quirky Canadianisms on the road and found an audience amongst those who appreciate laughing at themselves and their country. Underlying these quirky visual tales painted on canvas, a serious undertone about our place in the world and thoughts about the future of our country.

The “Canadianisms” series has toured in both Edmonton and Calgary, and has garnered the artist notoriety as the voice of Canadian Pop Art. In her most recent work, Saturley has turned once again to the landscape, never really having left. Her new, visionary paintings collage different, unexpected elements of Canadiana rendered in her characteristic pop aesthetic. They oscillate between a graphic realism used for Canada’s famous mountain peaks or views of forest lakes, and the abstractness of the colorful, even psychedelic backgrounds. The sincerity of their celebration keeps them from tripping over into kitsch. Instead they are otherworldly and transportive, playful and humorous. ~ Andrea Bell, for Whitehot Magazine

For me it is fun to look back at these weird and wonderful ideas that launched me into the Canadian Art Market and with galleries across the country. Some of my weird art serves as a critique of culture, politics, or consumerism. It highlights absurdities and prompts reflection on societal issues. In 2025, I will celebrate 15 years of painting stories of Canada on canvas, and I have a few things up my sleeve. For now, a trip back through these tongue in cheek narratives about a country known for it’s red maple leaf, Mountie’s, syrup of gold, hockey culture, Nanaimo bars and landscapes.

12 Paintings – Making Weird Art in Canada

From stories of the Oilers defeat and trade of Wayne Gretzky to the Stanley Cup. From tales of the Ukrainian experience to the people of the prairies, Canadian celebrities and the fans. These paintings tell quirky Canadian narratives of yesterday and today.

Death of a Rookie – 32×32, acrylic on canvas, 2012 An ode to the Oilers Steve Smith, in the style of Jacques Louis David, referencing The Death of Marat painting created in 1793. “Saturley’s Death of a Rookie, Rise of a Hero is a take on the political painting The Death of Marat by French painter Jacques-Louis David, 1793.

The Story of the Wayne Gretzky Trade – 48×36, acrylic on canvas, 2012 Brandy Saturley – Painting of The Oilers on the ice and Janet Jones in goal, with Gretzky transfixed by her gaze. A tale of the Wayne Gretzky trade to the LA Kings.

A Cup for Louise, 22.5×19, acrylic on canvas, 2013 – Brandy Saturley Imagine an afternoon sipping tea in the tearoom of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, out of Canada’s most coveted cup? Having tea with Stanley at Lake Louise.

The Climb, 48×36, acrylic on canvas, 2015 – Brandy Saturley This piece speaks to the climb we face in all areas of life through referencing the long climb to achieving the Stanley Cup. The piece carries heavy symbolism with Lawren Harris-esque rocky mountains in the background.

The Eh Team, 36×36, acrylic on canvas, 2013 – Brandy Saturley Painting of a mountie with thumb up in a Fonzie-esque ‘eh’

Perogies in the Wind, 30×24, acrylic on canvas, 2012 – Brandy Saturley Painting of perogies hanging from a clothesline on the Canadian Prairie

Bieberscape 24×30, acrylic on canvas, 2011, Brandy Saturley Painting of Justin Beiber hairstyles that he became famous for early in his career. The hair acts and landscapes on the road through the Nevada desert.

Canada is Sweet & Salty, 24×30, acrylic on canvas, 2011 – Brandy Saturley Painting of a naked Pamela Anderson laying on top of a Mackintosh toffee bar at Peggy’s Cove with puffins.

A song for an Alter Ego, acrylic on canvas, 2011, Brandy Saturley Painting of Burton Cummings and his alter ego, on a trip across his catalogue. A Beatles’esque take on Burton’s inner thoughts.

A Punch Line and an Unknown, 36×48, acrylic on canvas, 2013 – Brandy Saturley A painting on an outdoor hockey rink of a group of hockey buddies wearing the ‘Habs’ famous line jersey numbers, along with a goal tender with a paper bag over his head.

Canadiens Gothic, 48×36, acrylic on canvas, 2014 – Brandy Saturley

The original painting the started the People of Canada Portrait Project in 2014, inspired by ‘American Gothic’. “American Gothic (1930) is a painting by American (Iowa) artist Grant Wood. The painting depicts a farmer and someone you may assume to be his wife standing in front of their house. The farmer is dressed simply and holding a pitch fork, the wife is dressed simply as well, adorned by an apron.

In reality, the people in this painting are not as they seem, they are models (artist’s sister and town dentist) that Wood selected to replicate what a typical person living in Iowa would look like. In American Gothic, Wood uses the house and its perspective owners as a satirical outlook on American culture at the time. Saturley’s Canadiens Gothic (from the People of Canada Portrait Project) has a similar setting to Wood’s American Gothic. Shown is a hockey player (Reg) in a Canadiens hockey jersey, holding a hockey stick. Beside him is, we assume, his wife (Penny) wearing a “Hoodie” or a “Bunny Hug” if you are from Saskatchewan. The figures are standing not in front of their home, but in front of a building titled FORUM, “the most storied building in hockey history” and home of the Montreal Canadiens hockey club. Unlike Wood’s American Gothic, the figures in Saturley’s Canadiens Gothic did pose together (selfie taken by Penny) and are a couple living in Manitoba. Replacing the pitch fork with a hockey stick, and replacing the simple but staunch black jacket with a hockey jersey, evokes a level of relaxation on one’s day off.This contrasts the work element (farming) with play (hockey); or, comparatively speaking, a way of life (farming) juxtaposed with the Canadian way of life (hockey). Penny’s attire also gives to the notion of comfort and does not attest to any domestic fortitude

Dreaming in the Colours of Eh, 36×48, acrylic on canvas, 2014 Asleep on an HBC point blanket, the green blanket like a field of emerald grass with red poppies falling from the sky. The poppies made from sheet music of ‘O Canada’. The woman sleeps peacefully with Canada Goose winter hat and ruby red boots, holding a green monopoly house in her right hand. The woman wearing a Vancouver Canucks jersey, but no pants. This piece was created as part of a series referencing the ‘Wizard of Oz’ and my journey home after exhibitions of work in Alberta. Somewhat surrealism, definitely symbolic, this piece tells many stories depending on the viewer. Acrylic painting on canvas with collage.

Remember, art’s impact is subjective, and what’s “weird” varies from person to person. Ultimately, weird art enriches our cultural landscape and invites us to explore the extraordinary.

June 6, 2024

International Women’s Day Artists

Canadian Paintings, Women Painters

Women to Love and Collect: International Women’s Day

I recently saw a question posted to X (Twitter) from the National Gallery of Canada asking the question, can you name five women artists? I thought to myself, absolutely! Who couldn’t, but then I remember I am an Artist, so it should be easier for me than a non-artist. I have written about my favourite historical women painters, and I could write about many more, in Canada and beyond. On this International Women’s Day I am looking at five of my favourite contemporary women artists, from Canada. These women make art I would gladly exhibit mine alongside.

When I take a deep dive and think about which female Canadian painters we will be talking about twenty years from now, my list is short, and I am not sure if this is because there is a lack of representation in commercial galleries in Canada, or if it is because there are so few very strong voices amongst the contemporary women painters in Canada today. In any case the following five female painters are significant, offering strong contributions to contemporary Canadian Art, that will be heard for generations to come. Here are five female Canadian painters to love on International Women’s Day and beyond.

LAURIE PAPOU, British Columbia – I first became aware of Laurie Papou’s figurative paintings during an exhibition of a body of work titled, ‘A Group of Seven’ which presented the artist fully nude alongside her partner in various poses and locations in nature. It was quite the statement the artist was making about our forests, clearcutting and herself as a female artist in a male dominated profession. The ultimate self-portrait series. She is an artist, a warrior and a nature lover.

JANICE INISKIM-AKI TANTON, Alberta – I remember standing in the Glenbow museum, I think it was 2013, I turned a corner and walked into a room that held this immense painting, a comment on being Canadian, from an Indigenous perspective. The painting titled ‘Undercurrents’, featured a canoe hovering above a lake, on this red canoe were 9 people. Children with a Hudson’s Bay blanket, a lumberjack or fisherman in plaid jacket, a construction worker, a hockey player, a young woman in a Christian wedding dress and another seated below. At the helm, a Blackfoot chief. A beautiful figurative painting filled with symbolism and narrative.

CAROL WAINIO, Ontario – It may have been 2007 and I was standing inside Trepanier Baer gallery in Calgary. On view was an immense Carol Wainio painting. A somewhat dreamy and dirty landscape, with limited contrast and mostly muted pastels, garbage and pop culture strewn around a landscape that made me think of landfills. Repetitious short strokes and earthy tones. I was captivated by the underlying narrative that you had to search for to find. Weaving a story using abstraction and flatness, I kept trying to find the light in this murky ferrytale. It was unlike any painting I had ever seen before. I was captivated.

JENN MANN, Ontario – figurative, pop culture, self-portaits and candy colors – I was at the 2016 Toronto Art Fair when I first laid eyes on Mann’s paintings in person. They were candy coated goodness, with warrior heart. Pop culture masterpieces that glowed of pink and veils of light. I wanted to lick these paintings and find out how they tasted. A young artist with much to say, and I was listening. Mann captures youthful passion and enthusiasm and screams, ‘I’m Here to Steal Your Soul’.

DEE BARSY, Manitoba – I see so many things in this Indigenous Winnipeg artists work. I see Janvier, Bush and automobile decals. Her paintings are graphically pleasing and her designs executed precisely. Her signature teal backgrounds are distinctive and brand her work immediately. I sometimes see patterns for future beadwork in her compositions. She is a young Canadian Artist on the rise, and the stars aren’t the limit. Can’t wait to see where her work takes her next.

So head out in the world to your local art galleries and museums and find some women artists to love, and share what you love with your friends. Word of mouth is still the best way to discover new artists to love, collect and share with the next generation. Here are few more women painters to know right now.

March 7, 2024

CANCON Painting Canada

Canadian Paintings

CANCON on and on – Painting Canada

For over a decade, my passion for exploring the vast and diverse landscapes of Canada has fueled my journey as a Canadian Artist. Born and residing on the secluded Vancouver Island, I’ve embarked on a quest to capture the essence of my homeland through the lens of my paintings. In this blog post, I have put together a small curated selection of artworks spanning nearly 15 years, 8 provinces and one Territory. Offering a visual storyteller’s perspective on Canada, from the Atlantic shores of Newfoundland to the northern reaches of the Northwest Territories. I am painting Canada.

The Vancouver Island Biosphere:

Living on Vancouver Island, a jewel on the extreme west coast, I’ve often felt the unique disconnect from the stereotypical Canadian icons. Our island biosphere operates under the unofficial motto, ‘keep it quiet,’ with many locals cherishing the desire to preserve its untouched beauty. While I understand this sentiment, I’ve chosen to share the untold stories of this hidden gem through my art.

Painting by Brandy Saturley for private Vancouver Island residence.

A Collection of Canadian Stories:

In this blog post, I want to briefly touch on a collection of paintings, each telling a story of a specific region within Canada. From the rugged terrain of Newfoundland to the political and cultural heartbeat in Ottawa, my paintings capture the diverse essence of this vast country.

Brandy Saturley in Brandon, Manitoba – 2020

Journey Through the Brushstrokes: CANCON Painting Canada

Newfoundland: An artistic expression of ‘The Rock,’ with its geological wonders, ferocious oceans, and iconic lighthouses guiding cod fishermen.

Painting of Cape Bonavista – The Rock and Roll – 2023

Ottawa: Canada’s capital, a picturesque city on a canal, and the epicenter of political culture.

Painting of CWAC soldier against Canada and British flags – A Remembrance Day Painting 2014

Quebec: A deep dive into the historical significance of its culture and art scene, the heart of hockey, poutine, and maple syrup.

Painting about Ice skating on an outdoor pond in Montreal – 2023

Ontario: The bustling ‘Big Smoke,’ home to the Hockey Hall of Fame, a cultural melting pot, the Great Lakes, and the financial center of the country.

Painting of hockey players ascending the Stanley Cup – 2015

Manitoba: A place of grit and community, known as the center of the country, with wheat kings, pond hockey, and a thriving artistic community.

A painting about Pond Hockey on Lake Winnipeg – 2021

Saskatchewan: The true prairies, a vast expanse of flatlands and farms, where the beauty of canola fields dances with the summer sky.

A painting of a rustic barn in the Saskatchewan prairies – 2020

Alberta: Home to oil, cowboys, and the majestic Rocky Mountains, where hospitality is as abundant as the breathtaking landscapes.

Canoeing at Sunset in Vermillion Lakes – Banff, Alberta – 2022

British Columbia: A haven of trees, sea-to-sky hikes, and warm temperatures, showcasing our commitment to the environment and the well-being of our four-legged friends.

A woman wearing a hat upholding a canoe in front of the ocean – 2016

Northern Territories: A land of the Northern Lights, life on the edge of the Arctic Circle, and a community fiercely independent yet tightly knit in the face of challenging weather.

Painting of a polar bear resting in front of a building in Yellowknife – 2023

Looking Ahead – The Continuing Journey

As I continue to paint Canada, my journey unfolds, and new destinations entice. The Yukon with it’s wild nature and Churchill, with their polar bears, await my artist eyes, while the Maritimes beckon as the next frontier in my evolving obsession with Canada. Join me as I delve deeper into the collective consciousness of this extraordinary country, capturing its soul one brushstroke at a time.

See more original paintings by Brandy Saturley here.

December 22, 2023

Tale of Two Ukrainian Artists

Canadian Paintings

A Tale of Two Ukrainian Artists: William Kurelek and Brandy Saturley

Art has the power to capture culture, history, and personal narratives in vibrant and captivating ways. In the realm of Ukrainian Canadian art, two remarkable painters have emerged with their unique styles and perspectives: William Kurelek and Brandy Saturley. While both artists celebrate their Ukrainian heritage in different times, their approach to storytelling through art varies, resulting in distinct bodies of work. This is a Tale of Two Ukrainian Canadian Artists.

William Kurelek, a renowned Canadian artist, was a masterful storyteller through his brushstrokes. Born in 1927 in Alberta, Canada, Kurelek’s art captured the essence of his rural upbringing and explored themes of faith, identity, and the human condition. His vivid and detailed paintings, often depicting prairies, farms, and landscapes, conveyed a deep connection to his Ukrainian heritage. Kurelek’s art not only showcased his technical prowess but also delved into his personal struggles with mental health, making his work deeply introspective and emotionally evocative. With a unique blend of realism and imagination, Kurelek’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts across the globe.

The Rock, 1962, by William Kurelek

Brandy Saturley, a Canadian artist known for her vibrant and captivating paintings, effortlessly blends the realms of realism and pop culture in her art. Born in 1972 in British Columbia, Canada, her passion for painting began at a young age, and she has since become a prominent figure in the Canadian art scene. Saturley’s unique style combines bold colors, intricate details, and a touch of whimsy, resulting in visually stunning pieces that captivate the viewer’s imagination. With her distinct ability to capture the essence of Canadian identity and culture, Brandy Saturley’s art has garnered international recognition, solidifying her status as one of Canada’s top contemporary artists.

In this blog post, we will explore and compare the paintings of these two Ukrainian Canadian artists, William Kurelek and Brandy Saturley.

Reminiscence of Youth, 1968 by William Kurelek

Cultural Themes and Imagery: One of the primary commonalities between Kurelek and Saturley lies in their exploration of Ukrainian culture and heritage. Kurelek’s works often depict scenes from Ukrainian village life, religious traditions, and historical events. His paintings delve into the deep-rooted traditions and customs, invoking nostalgia and a sense of community.

On the other hand, Saturley’s paintings incorporate contemporary Ukrainian motifs with a fresh and modern twist. Her works feature bold, vibrant colors and strong female figures adorned in Ukrainian traditional attire. Saturley seamlessly merges cultural symbols with contemporary themes, presenting a unique interpretation of Ukrainian identity in the modern world.

Ukraine Strong, self-portrait, 2022, Brandy Saturley

Narrative and Storytelling: Both Kurelek and Saturley are storytellers, but their methods differ significantly. Kurelek’s paintings often tell deeply personal stories, drawing from his own experiences and struggles. His introspective approach invites viewers to delve into the emotional depths of his narratives, addressing themes of spirituality, mental health, and immigrant experiences. Kurelek’s works are often detailed and meticulously crafted, inviting viewers to unravel the layers of meaning within each piece.

In contrast, Saturley’s narratives are more open-ended and leave room for interpretation. Her paintings possess a dreamlike quality, with subjects engaged in ambiguous activities or situated in surreal environments. By intentionally leaving certain aspects unresolved, Saturley allows viewers to construct their own stories and connect with the art on a personal level.

After the Big Blow, 1974, William Kurelek

Artistic Techniques and Style: Kurelek’s paintings showcase his remarkable technical skill and meticulous attention to detail. He employed a realistic style, using precise brushwork and capturing intricate textures and lighting. Kurelek’s use of earthy tones and a subdued color palette contributes to the nostalgic and contemplative atmosphere of his works.

Conversely, Saturley’s style is characterized by bold, expressive brushwork and vibrant colors. Her paintings feature a combination of realism and abstraction, creating a dynamic tension that energizes her compositions. Saturley’s use of vivid hues and gestural brushstrokes adds a sense of vitality and movement to her art.

Pond Hockey Days, 2021, Brandy Saturley

Conclusion: While both William Kurelek and Brandy Saturley celebrate their Ukrainian heritage through their art, their approaches differ significantly. Kurelek’s introspective narratives and attention to detail transport viewers to a bygone era, while Saturley’s contemporary interpretations and dreamlike compositions offer a fresh perspective on Ukrainian identity. Regardless of their differences, both artists contribute to the rich tapestry of Ukrainian Canadian art, inviting audiences to explore their cultural roots and connect with the universal human experience through the power of visual storytelling.

Dochka Rising, 2023, Brandy Saturley

Tale of Two Ukrainian Artists

More paintings by Brandy Saturley that show influence of Ukrainian-Canadian heritage and her distinctive style of visual storytelling.

Spirit of Ukraine, 2023, Brandy Saturley

Perogies in the Wind, 2013, Brandy Saturley

Pysanky Puck: rubber hockey puck, paper, wood and acrylic paint, 2013.

My Ukrainian Idol, 2011, Brandy Saturley

Mother and Child, 2009, Brandy Saturley

May 8, 2023

Top 10 Canadian Painters

Canadian Paintings

Top 10 Canadian Painters to follow on Instagram

Canada is home to a vibrant and diverse arts scene, and social media platforms like Instagram have given top Canadian painters a platform to showcase their work to a global audience. Instagram has become a powerhouse platform for discovering new artists from all over the world. It provides a unique space where artists can showcase their work and connect with a global audience of art lovers, collectors, and enthusiasts.

Compositional Study for They Walk Softly on This Earth 2022 Acrylic on Canvas 24″ x 36″ Kent Monkman

Instagram’s visual nature is perfect for showcasing artwork. Artists can share images of their work, behind-the-scenes shots of their creative process, and even videos of their work in progress. This provides viewers with an immersive experience that allows them to appreciate the artwork in a way that wouldn’t be possible through other mediums. The social nature of this visual platform allows for direct connections between artists and their audiences. This allows artists to build a community of fans and supporters, and it also allows audiences to engage with artists and their work on a personal level. This creates a sense of intimacy and connection that can be hard to achieve through other platforms.

Victoria BC based artist, Brandy Saturley, in her studio.

Here are 10 of the top Canadian painters to follow on Instagram;

Kent Monkman – This Toronto-based artist explores themes of Indigenous identity, sexuality, and colonialism in his bold and provocative paintings.
Tim Okamura – This New York-based artist explores themes of race, identity, and representation in his powerful and expressive portraits.
Kim Dorland – A Toronto-based artist known for his textured and expressive paintings of Canadian landscapes and urban scenes.
David McLeod – A digital artist and painter whose bold and vibrant works explore the intersection of technology and nature.
Brandy Saturley – Based in Victoria, BC, Saturley’s pop art style paintings capture the beauty and diversity of Canada’s landscapes and people.
Peter Doig – A Scottish-born painter who has spent much of his career in Canada, Doig’s dreamlike and atmospheric paintings capture the beauty and mystery of Canadian landscapes.
Jeremy Herndl – Victoria BC based Canadian painter focusing on the human relationship to place.
Jen Mann – Toronto, On based painter whos work mainly focuses on the idea of self in a post-internet world.
Andrew Valko – Winnipeg, MB based hyperrealist painter, drive-in movie scenes and conceptual nudes
Christie Belcourt – Following the tradition of Métis floral beadwork, Belcourt paints in dots and uses the subject matter as metaphors for human existence to relay a variety of meanings which include concerns for the environment, biodiversity, spirituality and awareness of Métis culture.

Christi Belcourt working in her studio, 2021

These are just a few of the many talented Canadian painters on Instagram. Whether you’re looking for landscapes, portraits, or abstract works, there’s sure to be an artist on this list who will inspire and delight you. So why not give them a follow and see what they’re up to?

May 4, 2023

Polar Bear Paintings

Canadian Paintings

My Top Ten – Polar Bear Paintings

Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) are magical creatures, loved by many. They are some of my favourite polar bear paintings. If you are in Canada, Manitoba is the place to go to see this largest land mammal, in the northern city of Churchill. Polar Bear symbolism and meaning varies amongst tribes. The Polar Bear teaches endurance and resourcefulness, a powerful and wise spirit animal. These white beauties often stir deep emotions in humans, especially now as their habitats are disappearing due to global warming. The Polar Bear is seen as a guiding spirit when facing dramatic life transitions, especially at the onset of a new path or major change in life. Seems timely as we are just coming through a challenging two years under the Covid pandemic and life as we know it is new again.

Here are my top ten paintings featuring this magnificent white beauty of Northern landscapes.

1. Face Off, 2011 Brandy Saturley

2. Polar Bear, 2015 Brandy Saturley

3. Lovers in A Polar Bear Time, 2021 Brandy Saturley

4. When Polar Bears Fly, 2020 Brandy Saturley

5. King of The Polar Bears, 2021 Brandy Saturley

6. Queen of The Polar Bears, 2021 Brandy Saturley

7. Balance, 2018 Brandy Saturley

8. A Handful of Polar Bear, 2021 Brandy Saturley

9. Wanderlust, 2022 Brandy Saturley

10. The Conversation, acrylic painting 2023, Brandy Saturley

Polar Bear Paintings draw attention to their changing habitats

Sea ice is as important to the Arctic ecosystem and the planet as it is to polar bears who rely on the ice to hunt, mate, travel and sometimes den. The main threat to these bears is sea ice land loss from climate warming. Internationally polar bears are listed as a vulnerable species and one that is being challenged to adapt quickly right now, worldwide. These bears can currently be found in five nations including Canada, US (Alaska), Russia, Greenland and Norway. My goal in painting these symbolic narratives about polar bears is to draw attention to their changing habitats and honour their beauty and resilience. The are special, magical creatures to observe and protect.

See more paintings about The Great White North here.

April 20, 2022