Iconic Canadian Brands

Five Favourites; Iconic Canadian Brands

With the looming trade war between Canada and the USA, my fellow Canadians and I find ourselves looking inward, reflecting on the iconic brands that define our national identity. While many brands are uniquely Canadian, a select few have become synonymous with Canada, earning admiration both at home and around the world. Spanning food, alcohol, and clothing, these brands are cherished for their quality, originality, and distinctly Canadian spirit. These are five favourite iconic Canadian brands.

Hudson’s Bay Point Blankets: A Hudson’s Bay point blanket is a type of wool blanket traded by the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) in British North America, now Canada and the United States, from 1779 to present. The blankets were typically traded to First Nations in exchange for beaver pelts as an important part of the North American fur trade. The blankets continue to be sold by Canada’s Hudson’s Bay department stores and have come to hold iconic status in the country.

Westcoast Solitudes, 48×36, acrylic on canvas, 202, Brandy Saturley

Canada Goose Parka: In 1957, Polish-Jewish immigrant Sam Tick founded Metro Sportswear, the company that would later become Canada Goose. The company’s first products were wool vests, raincoats, and snowsuits. Tick’s son-in-law David Reiss joined Metro Sportswear in 1972 and introduced a down-filling machine that allowed the company to more efficiently produce winter jackets. By the late 1970s, the company was supplying parkas to police, corrections officers, park rangers, and other public sector workers under the Snow Goose brand name. It also sold designs to larger apparel manufacturers such as L.L. Bean and Eddie Bauer. Their fur-trimmed parkas with Canada Goose Arctic Program trademark became a sought after piece of clothing worldwide giving rise to their luxury brand status and birthing many knock-off brands.

Somewhere Under the Rainbow, acrylic on canvas, 36×36, 2015, Brandy Saturley

Lululemon Yoga Apparel: Lululemon Athletica Inc. was founded in 1998 as a retailer of yoga pants and other yoga wear, and has expanded to also sell athletic wear, lifestyle apparel, and accessories. Some of the company’s best known product lines include the High Rise Align Fit Mini flare leggings, Dance Studio pants, Hottie Hot shorts, Scuba hoodies, and the Define sports jacket. Lululemon has trademarked several proprietary fabrics, including Luon, Luxtreme, Nulu, Nulux, Everlux, and more. Lululemon Athletica became a Nasdaq-100 company on December 24, 2018.

LuLu View, acrylic on canvas, 24×24 by 2, 2016, Brandy Saturley

Crown Royal Whiskey: Crown Royal, originally known as Seagram’s Crown Royal, is a blended Canadian whisky brand created by Seagram and owned by Diageo since 2000. Production of Crown Royal is done at Gimli, Manitoba, while the blending and bottling of the whisky are done in a facility in Amherstburg, Ontario. The whisky was introduced in 1939 by Samuel Bronfman for the 1939 royal tour of Canada by King Geroge VI and his wife, Queen Elizabeth. The whisky was sold exclusively in Canada until the 1960s, when it was first introduced to international markets. It is the top-selling brand of Canadian whisky in the United States. Crown Royal comes in a now iconic purple felt-like bag with a gold tasseled drawstring. As children of parents who were fans of this whiskey we came to use the purple bag as a place to keep our marbles.

Crown Royal in it’s iconic purple bag with gold details.

Hawkins Cheezies: Cheezies are a brand of cheese puff snack food made and sold in Canada by W. T. Hawkins Ltd. The snack is made from extruded cornmeal covered in powdered cheddar cheese, and sold in distinctive red-and-white bags. The snack was invented after the Second World War by James Marker of Dayton, Ohio, and W. T. Hawkins. The pair were living in Chicago when they discovered a method, by trial and error, of extruding cornmeal, casting it into fingerling shapes, then deep frying it in vegetable shortening and sprinkling it with cheddar cheese. For many Canadians the only puffed cheese snack is Hawkins Cheezies, while there have been many US brands making cheesies, Hawkins come with a distinct hard crunch, aged cheddar flavour and each one a unique shape and size that you may often see for sale on EBay as perhaps resembling Jesus or many other things. Cheezies are like clouds and no 2 are alike.

Hawkins Cheezies – the only choice for Canadians

These are just five iconic Canadian brands that happen to be our favourites. Here are 10 picks for Canada’s greatest brands by Global News.

March 13, 2025

Artists in Canada

Art Career, Opinion

What Are the Statistics on Visual Artists in Canada?

Did you know that the National Gallery of Canada Library maintains an extensive database of professional visual artists in Canada? This valuable resource contains information on over 42,000 Canadian visual artists and more than 5,300 biographies, thanks to the support of CHIN, the National Gallery of Canada Foundation, and the dedicated work of Colin MacDonald, author of A Dictionary of Canadian Artists, alongside a team of staff and volunteers.

Canadian Paintings at Okotoks Art Gallery, 2017 – Brandy Saturley

In the visual arts field, the term “artist” is broadly defined, encompassing painters, sculptors, printmakers, designers, photographers, architects, and artisans. To be considered an artist “in Canada,” one must either be born in Canada or have worked here. The database does not imply any form of selection or recognition—only that a file exists, which may contain anything from a single press clipping to an extensive archive of exhibition records and media coverage.

Canadian Visual Artist, Brandy Saturley on her Art Shipping Crates

The Reality of Being a Visual Artist in Canada

According to the most recent census data, there are approximately 203,000 full-time professional artists in Canada, with around 21,000 working as visual artists. More than half (51%) of these artists are self-employed, valuing the flexibility, control, and sense of purpose that comes with managing their own creative careers. In contrast to the general workforce, where only 20% work from home, 54% of artists conduct their practice from home studios.

However, financial stability remains a challenge. Half of all artists report total personal incomes below $40,000, and when looking specifically at earnings from the cultural sector, two-thirds (66%) earn less than $40,000 annually, with 21% earning under $10,000. Despite these challenges, half of the artists surveyed would choose the same career path if given the chance to start over, a testament to their passion and dedication.

Postage stamp by Canadian Artist, Brandy Saturley

Artists as Multi-Talented Contributors

Many artists contribute to the arts beyond their own creative work. A significant portion (71%) hold more than one job, and 72% of those with secondary employment work within the cultural sector, blending their creative pursuits with other artistic or administrative roles. Yet, despite wearing multiple hats, almost half (44%) of self-employed artists have never received formal business or career management training—an area that remains crucial for long-term sustainability.

The Art of Brandy Saturley in Boston at Winteractive 2025

My Journey as a Full-Time Canadian Artist

Like many artists, I started my career balancing a full-time job outside the arts while developing my practice. This experience provided me with valuable skills that eventually supported my transition into a full-time artistic career. For nearly two decades, my art has been my sole profession—I don’t take on side gigs to supplement my income, nor do I frequently accept commissions. If I do take on a commission, it’s because I’m genuinely excited about the creative collaboration and the relationship behind the opportunity.

Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley with her Art Book, Painting Canada, 2025

From the beginning, I admired artists who successfully built sustainable careers while they were alive. Meeting renowned figures like Vilmos Zsigmond, the Academy Award-winning cinematographer of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Takashi Murakami, whose commercial success is as impressive as his artistic vision, reinforced my belief that it’s possible to make a living from art. I have never relied solely on my local market to grow my career. Instead, I’ve always looked beyond, balancing the creative and business sides of the industry to push my work forward.

Navigating the Art World: A Balancing Act

Being a full-time artist is both exhilarating and unpredictable—like riding waves on a surfboard, with highs, lows, and unexpected turns. Some might call it luck, but I see it as a combination of preparation, focus, and the ability to seize opportunities as they arise. In an industry filled with uncertainty, I work hard to be a reliable and adaptable presence. Every idea, whether it comes to fruition or not, holds the potential for creative and professional growth.

Brandy Saturley in her Victoria BC Canada studio

If you’re considering working with me—whether as a collector, collaborator, or client—I bring not only my artistic vision but also the dedication and business acumen necessary to see a project through successfully. Let’s create something meaningful together.

February 12, 2025

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

National Indigenous Peoples Day

Artist Process, Opinion

National Indigenous Peoples Day – Honouring Our First Nations in Canada

On June 21st, National Indigenous Peoples Day, we come together to acknowledge and celebrate the rich history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. As someone who grew up on Vancouver Island, I am particularly aware of the presence of 50 First Nations within three distinct tribal regions: Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl. These nations are the original inhabitants of Vancouver Island, and you can explore their territories through this interactive map.

The 50 First Nations of Vancouver Island.

During my childhood in the community of Sooke, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, I was immersed in the Coast Salish culture. Our home was just a short walk away from a reservation on the ocean, nestled up a long hill beyond a pasture of horses and a weather station. Many of my childhood friends and classmates either belonged to this reservation or traveled a long distance by bus (over an hour) from the reservation in Port Renfrew, which we affectionately called “Renfrew.” In those formative years, Indigenous elders visited our elementary school to teach us about their vibrant culture. I have vivid memories of learning to harvest kelp and seaweed on the rocky Whiffen Spit beach, where we would make Seaweed Soup over an open fire. Our classroom discussions often revolved around spirit animals, and I can still recall the excitement of live owls being brought in for educational purposes. As a child, I found myself captivated by this fascinating culture, and I even received a certificate upon completing my first “Nitinaht Culture Course” from a man named Randy Chipps, whose infectious smile I can still faintly remember.

Certificate Nitinaht Culture Course, 1980

Growing up in Sooke, BC, meant a life intertwined with the natural wonders that surrounded us. Beachcombing, hiking, swimming in the Potholes, and exploring the old growth forests were regular activities. In the summer, we would harvest wild blackberries and sell them through the kitchen window to the chef at our local luxury west coast hotel, The Sooke Harbour House, which was merely a mile down the road. Building houses on the beach out of driftwood and spending hours skipping rocks at the Sooke River potholes were cherished pastimes. During our hikes, encounters with deer, black bears, and cougars were commonplace, yet we never felt afraid. It was simply part of the rhythm of life. It comes as no surprise that the art I created as a child was heavily influenced by these experiences, reflecting the blend of British, Ukrainian, and Canadian backgrounds that shaped my identity.

Drawing, 4 years old, Brandy Saturley

National Indigenous Peoples Day – A Tapestry of Family Connections

I was born in Victoria, British Columbia, often referred to as the Harbour City and City of Gardens. However, it is important to acknowledge that it is also one of the whitest places in Canada. In Greater Victoria, nearly three-quarters of the population is of white European descent, with British (31.4%), Scottish (23.6%), and Irish (18.4%) backgrounds comprising the largest ethnic/cultural origins. German (12.3%) and Canadian (11%) identities follow closely. In 2021, 34.4% of the population in British Columbia identified as members of a visible minority group, whereas in Greater Victoria, this figure was 16.7%.

I had a close uncle who dedicated his career to social work in BC and served as the superintendent of social services for what was then known as “Indian Affairs.” He was one of the individuals working tirelessly to support communities across BC, residing on various reservations and even adopting a daughter born in the Haida Gwaii area of BC. Eventually, he helped her reconnect with her birth family. With a Native cousin from Haida Gwaii and a Métis niece, I felt that I had a deeper understanding of their cultures compared to many of my Canadian friends at the time. As a second-generation Vancouver Islander, I have often referred to my family as natives of Vancouver Island, despite not having “Native blood.”

Painting, 8 years old, Brandy Saturley.

With the arrival of Canada150 and the subsequent conversations surrounding colonialism, I found myself compelled to reflect on my childhood and my connections to Indigenous culture. The pandemic has forced us all to examine ourselves under a magnifying glass and consider our interactions with one another. It has sparked new understandings of cultures, humanity, and the ongoing process of reconciliation in Canada. Humanity, as a whole, has been yearning to become more compassionate and understanding. Asserting our individuality is a cry for recognition, but once we have voiced our truths, it is crucial to prioritize peace, respect, understanding, and self-reflection.

As I delved deeper into learning about my Indigenous relatives, I also found a renewed interest in exploring my Ukrainian and British cultural heritage. Consequently, my recent paintings have become more influenced by multicultural perspectives, reflecting my evolving outlook on life.

Paintings reflecting the Canadian-Ukrainian experience – Brandy Saturley, 2023

My Top 10 Favorite Indigenous Canadian Artists

Over the years, numerous Indigenous Canadian artists have ignited a fire within me through their incredible work. Here are ten Indigenous artists you should know about:

1.Kent Monkman

2. Terry McCue

3. Jane Ash Poitras

4. Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun

5. Norval Morrisseau

6. Rebecca Belmore

7. Christi Belcourt

8. Roy Henry Vickers

9. Susan Point

10. KENOJUAK ASHEVAK

June 20, 2023

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

Archive for category: Opinion