2022-17 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover      

And just like that!!

Are you always as surprised as I am when, just overnight, it's time to get out the sweaters and gloves? It does happen every year, but I'm never ready. So I brave the new colder weather while still wearing sandals. I'll bet you do too. If I had to choose my favourite season it would be fall. I mean...look at all that orange! It's not a chance thing that orange has always been my number one choice.

Here's my story. My Grandma was an immigrant from Finland almost 100 years ago. She came over on a boat with 2 young daughters to meet her husband in Northern Ontario. She had a life filled with heartache and hardship but still managed to build a life in the freedom of Canada. One thing you may not know about Finns is that we are very clean. (We invented the sauna) She liked to repaint often. I was her chosen helper. She'd buy unopened bargain bin cans of paint..colour unseen. One year the colour was ORANGE. Everything was painted ORANGE that year. From the wood box, to the rocking chair, to the stairs in her house. It's been my favourite ever since.

Back to the art...a few weeks ago I was in the fabulous Artwalk in the Square outdoor art fair. The weather was perfect and the crowds were so enthusiastic . I had many insightful conversations with new art lovers and was so appreciative thatDouglas, Shelli, Evelyn, Rob and family, Amanda, Gabriela , and Linsay, among others, who came out to see the new work I have been creating. Also , I couldn't have done it without the help of my personal peach (AKA Ron Williams) my BFF Dorothy and my wonderful daughter Ingrie. Congratulations to Janie. She was the winner of my free print draw of the WE. It was lovely to connect with her. I think she might just be as zany as me.

I love it when I receive art news from you. Angela has a great fondness for many creatives, but one she loves is the Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara. You might recognize his iconic character of a little girl who at first appearance is quite sweet and then you see her devilish sparkle. I can certainly relate to her vibe. You may think I'm sweet but most would tell you I'm definitely not. YOSHITOMO NARA The Works

https://www.yoshitomonara.org › ...

I'd love to hear who your favourite artist is and why.

In my studio I am creating some really big canvases..about 5 ft x 6 ft. while I still have these walls. The canvas is tacked onto the wall and I'm just going for it. My objective is 'Go big or go home' while we still have this space. End of Jan 2023 is the new end of lease date. Email for a studio visit please.

I attach some photos of my new large canvas, 5x6 ft. called 'Love You Forever'. It's got a great story behind it which didn't evolve until after the painting was finished.

As ever, I thank you so much for your attention and support.

Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY HOME

2022-16 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover    

Play Ball!!!!

Hope you are enjoying this cooler weather as much as I am. When I sent out the previous newsletter, I confess I was not the gal you've come to know as enthusiastic and energetic. Both my knees were giving me grief. I apologize for maybe being a little cranky. Now I can truly sympathize with anyone who suffers from chronic pain. However, I am on the mend and can happily say that I can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

It was so nice to see so many smiling faces last WE at the art show at PegGraham's lovely home. We already have started on plans for next year. Several of my Walking the Dog paintings found new homes. If you would like a commission, I'd be happy to discuss a personal one just for you or a friend.

This WE is going to be an exciting time at theArtwalk in the Squareat shops at Don Mills, 1090 Don Mills Rd. Over 100 talented artists Friday to Sunday are ready to greet you with a variety of art. The weather promises to cooperate, so please come out to support local art. My booth number is 31, very close to last year's location. I've been working on some new pieces of course...so many ideas, so little time.

You may know that I love the northern landscape. I don't have a lot of landscapes in my work, but last year I was so inspired by the rugged shores of Lake Superior at Ney's Provincial Park that I started a diptych (2 paintings end to end). It has taken a whole year to complete but I think I have the essence of what I was feeling from those ancient stones. Have you ever had the urge to lay right on the rocks to absorb their energy? That is what I did that day last August. Communing with prehistoric spirits. It was one of those sacred moments.

I'm attaching the photos of Neys 1 and Neys 2, but you really have to see them in the flesh to appreciate their essence. I do hope you can come to visit them this WE.

Please let me know what adventures you've had this summer. It's been ages and I'm looking forward to connecting with you soon.

Rock on,

Gail


YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-15 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover     

Were you one of the Cool Kids?

At this time of year, I always think of those days just before the new school year starts. I remember the excitement of a new beginning and the hope that this year would be different. So I'll make a confession right here that I was not one of the cool kids. School was a minefield and looking back, I can see that I was trying to fly under the radar. But secretly wanting to be noticed. Hanging out in the art room, that place where the cool kids wouldn't be caught dead, was a haven. It became the place where I did stand out.

How about you? Were you one of the cool kids? Did you hide out in the middle zone hoping to be ignored, not called upon in class, not exposing your lack or abundance of knowledge, just trying to get along?

Things have changed of course and now I'm out there exhibiting my eccentric curiosity, my particular outlook on life with my art and rejoicing when someone gets my viewpoint, my angle on the connections of our humanity.

Unfortunately summer fun is over, but I have a great line up to start this new fall season.
There are 2 art shows you can come to see in Sept. The first is in the welcoming home of Peg Graham. She turns her home into an art gallery fundraiser with a variety of artists and artisans. It's a two day event and always a fun time. I hope you can make it. She's near Kingston Rd and Warden. The dates are Sat Sept 10 and Sun Sept 11, 11am to 6 pm. I've attached the flyer.

Next up is the second Artist Network outdoor show for me this year at the Shops at Don Mills, Lawrence and Don Mills. Over 100 artists will be showcasing their unique styles. I will have some new works in this show. Please pray for sunshine. www.artwalk.square for more details. Fri, Sept 16,3-8pm, Sat, Sept 17, 10-7pm, Sun, Sept 18, 11-5pm.

SPOILER ALERT....GIFTS FOR THE SOULis returning on Sat Nov 26, so please mark your calendar now for this popular event.

To start the new year off, the WINNER of this month's free print is Marianna. Congratulations. I'll be sending you an email to request your address.

This summer, I had the privilege of sharing my love of the great north with my grandsons as they discovered swimming in Lake Superior, hunting for amethyst, and fishing. (Fox caught his first fish this year)
And sauna too, of course. I hope your summer had some once in a lifetime experiences too.

I hope you noticed my new name for this newsletter.

Thanks so much for your ongoing support. It means a lot.

Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-14 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover   

Hope you've had a wonderful summer and are ready to enjoy the fall season.

I've decided that it's time for a slightname change. The newsletter name will now be 'LIVING ARTFULLY WITH GAIL'

You might need to check your spam or trash folder for the first one, which will be mailed out today.

I'm looking forward to sharing new art and art adventures with you.
Please continue to send me your suggestions. I love learning about all things creative.

Hope to see you at my next art events. Details will be in the newsletter.

Rock on,

Gail

2022-13 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover        

And the Living' is Easy

Finally it's summertime...I hope your livin' will be easy. Fun times with friends and family, BBQs, picnics, swimming perhaps. All those relaxed things we like to do when the warm weather hits. I'll be spending a good chunk of time up in paradise (aka Thunder Bay) This year I am looking forward to having my grandsons and daughters join me. We'll be exploring canyons, zip lining, hiking, swimming and as always, lots of sauna followed by the refreshing dips into Lake Superior.  I can hardly wait!

As well, I've decided to take a break from the business side of my art career. So you'll have to wait til September for another exciting edition of the Living Artfully newsletter. You know how I get inspired from a good dose of the north country.

This past 4 weeks have been a whirlwind of art fairs. I've never done so many (3) in such a short time span. Previously, I had sworn off the outdoor shows, but I can attest that it actually energized me and helped me to focus on my path. There were many wonderful conversations with new friends and we were lucky that the weather cooperated quite well...despite that very windy Saturday last. I was lucky  my tent didn't fly away and all the art stayed on the walls. 

CONGRATULATIONS to Ardith and Joy for being the winners of a free print by visiting my booth at the Rosedale Artfair and the Riverdale Artwalk. 

CONGRATULATIONS to Doug for winning this second draw of the month from my newsletter. I'll send a message for your address.

Thanks also for all the help I had in setting up and taking down the booths and for hanging out with me. Thanks to the ever patient peach, AKA husband Ron, Lise, Dorothy, Hilja, Angela, Steven, Nancy, Sandra, Mina and Sam. 

Of course, I must thank all the wonderful people who came and talked art with me. It was so much fun to share the stories of how my art works came into being. Luckily I was able to hang the painting that Bill and I had so much fun creating. It's a showstopper as you can see.

This is the last newsletter of the season. I'll see you in September and I hope you have a wonderful summer. My Instagram will be less active, but I'm sure I'll have something to show you. Please watch next week's last Live IG of Living Artfully with Gail on Thursday at 1pm. Season 2 will start in September.

I'm attaching some fun shots from the Riverdale Artwalk. If your'e desperate for a studio visit that can always be arranged. 

Rock on,

Gail


              YOUR HOME  +  YOUR STYLE  +  MY ART

2022-12 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover    

Twirling round and round

My brain that is! That children's song by Raffi is going round and round with lists and lists of all the details that need to be attended to. You might know the feeling.

CONGRATULATIONS TO AURA!! You are the June winner of a free print. I hope you enjoy it.

Last WE the Central Connection 2022 art show at Withrow park clubhouse was such a success. Lots of wonderful guests supported the 19 amazing artists who worked hard to put their best foot forward. I was honoured to be part of such talent. This group has been putting an art show together for many years and they have it down pat. Plus I've made some new friends.

This show connected me with the famous Jane Smith. We have been trying to connect for a few years and finally had success. So great to meet those people you've only been able to 'see' online.

It will continue as the next shows will be thronged. I'm sure. We are all super excited to actually chat in person.

Here you will find attached, 2 posters for the next two shows I am in, the Rosedale Art Fair and the Riverdale Artwalk. They gave me booth C1 in Riverdale, a prime piece of real estate, right at the south west corner of the park. At this point I don't know where I'll be in Ramsden Park which is the setting of the Rosedale fair, so you'll have an adventure finding me. I will post on FB and IG when I know of course.

A wonderful book has come my way that you might also be interested in. The title is 'Ninth Street Women: 5 painters and the movement that changed modern art' by Mary Gabriel. I'm always on the lookout to broaden my art knowledge. Below is a summary of the book. Let me know what you think.

Five women revolutionize the modern art world in postwar America in this "gratifying, generous, and lush" true story from a National Book Award and Pulitzer Prize finalist (Jennifer Szalai, New York Times).

While we're on the topic of books, please send me your recent favourite read.

Don't forget to join me live on Thursday at 1pm on IG LIVE. I do take requests if there is something you'd like to see me attempt. I'm a bit of a 'one-armed paper hanger' but I get the job done. How's your noticing coming along? Rob Walker's book 'The Art of Noticing' is still being featured. Lots of interesting ideas and adventures to be taken.

Please know I do appreciate your interest and support.

Rock on,

Gail


YOUR STYLE + YOUR HOME + MY ART

2022-11 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

What HAVE I done?!

Do you know the adage about being careful what you wish for? This is what happened to me. I applied to several shows and was rejected by several of course. And had a minute pity party too, I must admit.

Well the tables have turned and I now have 3 shows to get ready before the end of June. Not only is it exciting to be in shows I haven't been in before, it is such a pleasure to be able to engage with an enthusiastic art buying public. 

Recently I joined the Central Connection drawing group who meets weekly for life drawing class. They have a yearly show at Withrow Park Clubhouse near Pape and Danforth. It is on the north side of the park just a block south of the Danforth, where you can find many lovely cafes and shops. Or bring a picnic to the park. I guarantee sunshine! 

This is a group show of about 17 artists and I will have new work for purchase including my charming new series, 'Walking the Dog'. I'll also have some prints and coasters. Please drop by to check out some very accomplished artists. Sat. Mar 28, 3-6pm and Sun Mar 29, 12-5pm.

Next up will be the Rosedale Art Fair at Ramsden Park 1020 Yonge St (at Rosedale subway) on Sat June 11,11-6pm and Sun Jun12, 12-5pm. It will be a tent event  and again I guarantee sunshine! You can picnic in the park or try one of the many cafes near by.  I'd be delighted to see you at both events as I'll have larger pieces at Rosedale.

As well the fabulous Riverdale Artwalk is coming up soon, but I'll send out info on that soon. 

Just in case you missed my weekly IG Live this Thursday, I'll share here. In Rob Walker's book The Art of Noticing, pg 30, he talks about how to visit an art show or museum with a different agenda in mind. Instead of, or in addition to, looking at the featured exhibit, study something you might not necessarily think of. Seek out things that you might ignore. It could be paying attention to the comments of other viewers, studying the guards, or counting the dust bunnies on the floors. Create your own tour and you'll find some hidden treasures. I actually do easedrop  on other people, but this has kind of given me permission (LOL) 

Wouldn't it be fun to set up a new project of our own? Please send  me your cunning plans. I'm pretty sure you'll come up with some intriguing ideas.

Wishing you a wonderful first long WE of the summer. Let's pray for sunshine and good times with family and friends.

ROCK ON,

Gail



                 YOUR HOME  +  YOUR STYLE  +  MY ART

2022-10 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

Yes I did let them out!

CONGRATULATIONS to SIOBHAN MCARDLE !! You are this month's winner of a free print.

Are you as anxious as I am to feel some warmer weather? We say it every year, but I think because we've all been through an unprecedented experience that it feels more acute. We just want to get on with it.

Have you ever tried an audio art of noticing activity? Sit in a favourite place, outside or in your home, and just notice the sounds around you. Closing your eyes helps to block out the visual and focuses concentration on the audio. Within seconds you will feel yourself relaxing and tuning in to the ambient sounds around you. You'll be able to pick out the individual bird songs (if your'e outside) or the slap of a jogger's feet. Inside, perhaps it will be the hum of your refrigerator. In either case, I'd recommend it. I feel my heart rate going down just writing about it here.

I am very excited to announce the release of my new series, 'Walking the Dog' These charming 12 x 12 original acrylic paintings of 'Walkies with...(you fill in the blank)’ can be had for the discount price of only $200.00 (price after Mon. May 9 is $250.00) This low price is for my special supporters who follow along with me via this newsletter. It's been such fun to create these little vignettes. I've been stalking dog walkers for a while and taking surreptitious photos. Such fun! As you can see, the owners' faces have been masked for privacy. All you need to do is reply to this email and I'll arrange delivery. They are all ready to hang on the wall and would be an ideal Mothers' Day gift. Shipping not included.

I'm adding one of the 'Dog's to remind you of how adorable these are. I'll also do a commission if you'd like. You choose the dog shape and the main colour.

This month is the start of in person, off line, actual, real life with real people, art shows. You might want to mask still and not hug..your choice, but at least we'll be able to talk in person. I've been super busy creating new work. Some of it will be at the Central Connection 2022 Art Show, Sat.May 28, 3-6pm and Sun May 29, 12-5pm at Wtihrow Park Clubhouse Gallery at 725 Logan ave. This gallery is right in the park and very close to all the delightful restaurants and shops near Danforth and Pape. Please come down and say hello.
See the attached poster.

I'm also very happy to let you know that I have been accepted into the Riverdale Art walk in June. Please put me in your calendar for Sat June 18-Sun June 19 in Jimmie Simpson park.

More good news... we have yet another extension on our studio. End date is Aug 2022. Please pray for another one.

If your'e an Instagrammer, you could join me on Thursdays at 1pm where I'm doing IG Lives. A little chat, a little art, a little inspiration. Currently I'm using Rob Walker's book 'The Art of Noticing' to spark some joy into everyday life. Notice what you notice is my mantra, either visually or auditorally.

What have you done to spark your creativity recently? Please send me some suggestions or even better, a photo.

This past week, I've been on a bender. When I was a kid, I was obsessed with doing profiles so I thought I'd give in to the call and started a new series. There are two of them below. If you can think of a title for this series, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks for all your encouragement and support. It means so much.


Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-09 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover    

Spring in Canada

Blue sky yesterday, rain today, snow three days ago! Are you champing at the bit to get out there and do some gardening? Or maybe just be able to sit outside in the sunshine with a bevie and some friends? I know it's coming but I'm getting a little impatient.

Yesterday I sent out a last minute Art Venture event. My dear friend Janet Potter is the guest speaker at the Dignam Gallery in the historic Women's Art Association, 23 Prince Arthur Ave. ( University/ Bloor ) Janet makes beautiful, quirky works of art with found objects. The Open House is from 1-3. Our group will meet at 12:45 at the gallery. If there is interest, we can wander over to the galleries in nearby Yorkville. I hope you can join us. RSVP would be appreciated. This is a FREE event.

If your'e interested in trying out my art in your home, check out my account at Partial Gallery. They have a rent to own or just try feature that might suit your budget.

Every Thursday at 1pm, (mostly) I'm on live on IGTV. A little art, a little chat, a little inspiration. I'm always looking for ideas if you think of something you'd like to know about. Currently, I'm using Rob Walker's book 'The Art of Noticing' as a creativity guide.

Today, I am delighted to launch my newest Small Works Challenge , entitled 'Walking the Dog' You can see some of them in this newsletter. These are 12 x 12 in charming acrylic paintings all ready to jump onto your wall. Each of them are named 'Walkies With .....' (insert name of choice) As a preferred client, you are entitled to aspecial priceof only $225.00 if youorder before Friday, May 6. After that the dogs will be let out to the general public for $250.00 I will also accept commissions for $275.00 (you can choose your colour and general dog shape) These are perfect Mother's and/or Father's day gifts. Don't miss out!

Please mark Sat May 28 and Sun May 29 on your calendar. I'll be showing my art the Central Connection's show at Withrow Clubhouse. It is located near Danforth and Pape. I'll send details soon.

Til next time, please know I do appreciate your support.

Rock on,

Gail


YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-08 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover    

Spontaneous ArtVenture

Let's have some fun! My dear friend Janet Potter just announced that she is speaking at an Open House this Saturday at the Women's Art Association. The show is called 'Uncharted Waters'.

It is the perfect Art Venture. The Women's Art Association is in the historic Dignam Gallery, 23 Prince Arthur Ave, Toronto (University/Bloor). Open House is on Sat . April 23, 1-3pm. Janet will be featured as the guest speaker. She lovingly makes amazing small creations of beauty, using found objects.

Meet at the gallery at 12:45, 23 Prince Arthur Ave. Pray for sunshine so we can continue with more galleries in nearby Yorkville if you'd like.

This is a FREE event.

Please RSVP..

Rock on,

Gail

2022-07 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

C'mon already

Hey there... I can almost hear you over here.... Where is Spring?! We're getting royally teased here in Ontario. Alternating days of sunny double digits and cold windy days of snow. Well actually , more days of cold than warm. I keep looking for those first signs of growth but I'm needing to look really hard.

If you've been watching me on Thursdays at 1pm on Instagram Live, you'll know I've been featuring 'The Art of Noticing' by Rob Walker. It's an inspiring little book full of ideas to spark creative thinking and noticing. Last week I focused on taking the less travelled route, be it on foot or in a vehicle. Things I've noticed just by even walking on the other side of the street.. a tent on a balcony, a maple leaf that somehow got imprinted into wet cement, the tiniest flowers already in my front garden. What have you seen that you've not actually noticed before that has been right under your nose?

The Art Venture that was held a few weeks ago on March 25 was so fabulous. Our group included the High Park walkers (my name for them) and other art enthusiasts who visited the stunning art of indigenous artist, educator and historian Philip Cotein the Roncesvalles United Church. Thanks to Reverend Anne for approving our tour.

The huge mural is in the sanctuary surrounding a beautiful stained glass window. We self taught ourselves about the significance of the many symbols and then walked down a block to see another mural by Philip.
It's on the south side of the building at the corner of Garden and Roncesvalles. What a treat to get acquainted with indigenous art and legends. Then of course, we enjoyed lunch and good times with delicious Polish food. Thanks to Gwen, Darlene, Eric, Diana, Mira, Patty, Patti, and my BFF Dorothy. I'm going to return to Roncesvalles for more adventuring.

If you have some ideas for the next Art Venture please send them along.

Thanks so much to Amanda, Bill, Neala and Angela for their contributions to my art education and photos of brothers and sisters. The 30 SISTAS & BRUDDAS gallery is growing. If you'd like to participate, please send me a photo of a brother and/or sister or a BFF and I will create an 8x8 in portrait on paper with mixed media. If you like it you can buy it. If not, no hard feelings. $99.00 includes taxes and shipping.

I'd really like your help in naming my newest large painting which I am attaching here. Thanks so far to Diane, Dorothy and Andres for their suggestions.

Hope you're keeping those toes and fingers crossed for the submissions I've made already. I appreciate alldivine interventions. I do know that I have wall space at the annual Central Connection Art Show Sat/ Sun May 28/29. It's an the first in-person, offline, actual, real life art show in years!! I hope you can make it. There will be some new smaller works and a few large pieces. The clubhouse is at the northern end of Withrow Park, close to the Danforth and all the delicious restaurants and shopping. Make a day of it! The poster is attached.

CONGRATULATIONS toLisa G. She is this month's free print winner.

Ruth who won a print this year has been inspired to create some art of her own. Living Artfully is catching on!

Thanks so much for all the love. I appreciate it.

Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-06 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover            

The grass is rizing

Not a typo...my kooky uncle introduced me to that silly line about the springing of spring. I just thought I'd make a verb of it. Have you seen the first signs of those green things popping up from the ground? I hope they weren't scared off by those winds! I literally almost got blown away while crossing the street. At least in Toronto we didn't get the 50cm of snow that blew into my hometown of Thunder Bay.

Exciting things are happening! We can not mask if we want. We can have in-person art shows...YAHOO!! I am submitting for several outdoor art fairs. Please cross all your fingers and toes for me.

The other day I was honoured with a visit from Amanda, a former co-worker who came all the way from Edmonton to see my current collection. (well...she might have had other places to see but I don't think they could be more colourful) It was such a pleasure to share with her my processes and get caught up on what she has been doing. Amanda is an advocate for patient rights in the cancer treatment field. She is doing so much good for LGBTQ2S awareness in health care. I applaud her dedication and expertise.

MORE SIR!

Thank you so much for all the photos of family for my 30 SISTAS & BRUDDAS project. The gallery wall is filling up but I would still like more! If you have any friends whom you think would like to participate, please tell them. I'm making small, 8x8in mini portraits on paper with mixed media. They may be purchased for $99.00 ( includes shipping and taxes) But there is no obligation.

Last year the AGO had an online show called Portraits of Resilience. I submitted a painting and this year they have created a digital tribute with all the paintings they accepted. If you can visit the gallery, you'll see my art in the AGO for the first time.

This Friday March 25, I will be taking a group to see the stunning art of Philip Cote, a renowned Indigenous artist who painted the inside of Roncesvalles United Church, 240 Roncesvalles Ave. This is the first Art Venture for my Living Artfully peeps.

If you are interested, I am doing Live videos on Thursdays at 1pm on Instagram. A little art, a little chat, a little inspiration. Usually about 15 mins to check in om what's going on with Living Artfully.

One little project I'm having fun with is making mini books out of pieces of paper. I use paper to clean my brushes of paint so I thought I'd fold them into little books. They are super easy to make and the kids enjoy doing it too. Follow along with my post on Instagram. Or my latest live on IG.

I've attached my latest work, 'Grandmas March For Peace', 36 x 24. All art is available for purchase.

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

Til next time, I hope you know that I truly appreciate your support.


Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART