I am very grateful for the opportunity my art has given me to make contributions in and around my community. The joy I feel from connecting with people really rounds out the often solitary experience of being an artist. When I make a painting that goes out into a larger community, when it can help in the tremendous efforts people go to in order to make the world a better place, this feeling is amplified.
To celebrate Canada’s sesquicentennial year, I developed a series of large-scale artworks depicting the flag of Canada. An excellent backdrop for selfies, several of these paintings went out as loaners into the community with the #thatshinyflag to help share Canadian pride
This piece was a 'loaner' and was sent out to several fun events that year highlighting Canada's 150th Birthday
This was the original canoe that I foiled in the 'Canada' colours, in holographic of course. It too was loaned out to events throughout the year
Strong and Free is a 5' x10' painting featuring maple trees on a holographic foil background. I I donated it to the Ottawa Children's Treatment Center/ CHEO 2017 fundraiser to support programs for children in need. It was graciously purchased by The Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group
The painting was showcased during a RedBlacks home game at the end of the football field for all to enjoy
It is now on permanent display at the Frank Clair Stadium VIP lounge, TD Place Ottawa Ontario
Lake Joe brings the magic of summer camp into the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted.
Here, people with sight loss and their families can enjoy the same summer pursuits as other Canadians: canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, swimming, sailing and fishing.
As well, campers have access to intensive courses that teach necessary life skills, from cooking to mobility. Lake Joe is a place where a kid can be a kid.
The painting 'Spirit in the Night' was purchased by Pioneer Energy Foundation and donated back to the camp. It still makes me emotional thinking about that act of true generosity. It was a special night.
I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to be a part of the legacy of the CNIB camp and all that they do.
I am already looking forward to next year's event and thinking about all the ways we can get involved. Join me!!
Visit cnib.ca/LakeJoe to learn more about this vital organization.
With Monique Pilkington Executive Director CNIB Lake Joseph
36" x 48" Golden Sun
epoxy and foil on wood board
Detail of Golden Sun
Golden Sun being auctioned after the live performance of Jim Cuddy
Golden Sun was purchased for $5,000 by Tim Hogarth and donated back to the camp
I made Super Moon 36" x 48" as a twin to Golden Sun, and donated it to the camp for permanent display for campers and staff to enjoy. Its bright colours and touchable tactile surface is a perfect fit to bring the joy of art to everyone
Featured here with Eugene Chong General Manager CNIB Lake Joseph
Wildflowers in Pewter silent auction winner
Wildflowers in Blue silent auction winner
Visit cnib.ca/LakeJoe to learn more about this vital organization.