ARTIST STATEMENT

In these strange times of worry and isolation, I began reflecting on my country and which people have helped shape my Canadian life.

This show is a small collection of past and current Canadians who have helped define Canada as a remarkable country. Scientists, naturalists, politicians, writers, actors, astronauts, painters, and musicians have contributed to making our country a better place. 

Emily Carr taught me to look inside and beyond when creating. Margaret Atwood helped me to love story-telling, while David Suzuki showed me to champion the environment. Chris Hadfield enabled me to look up to the sky in wonder, KD Lang showed me the awesomeness of the human voice, and Oscar Peterson gave me a reason to stick with my piano lessons. Ryan Reynolds showed me how humour and social activism go together. Gord Downie thrilled me with his songwriting and taught me about grace and courage. A Mountie, a beaver and some Canada geese somehow always make me proud! Pierre and Justin Trudeau demonstrate how hard it is to steer this country through troubled waters. Finally, Dr. Bonnie Henry taught me empathy, humility and calm when facing great unknowns, and Michael Buble, a singer of jazz and a joyful soul, reminds me that it is still a wonderful world. 

There are so many more remarkable Canadians I would like to portray. I plan to expand on this collection of Icons as well as lesser-known Canadians. 

Oh, Canada – we stand on guard for thee – and each other!