Introducing our #Vibrance Artists

Twist Gallery’s October 2022 exhibit #Vibrance, on from October 4th to 30th, is a dynamic, joyful, and effervescent interpretation of what it means to live, to feel, and to dream. Spotlighting eight exceptional artists from Toronto, this exhibit garners the unrestrained power of light, hue, and texture, inviting the viewer on a journey into colour itself. Through a fearless employment of colour and bold brush strokes, these artists open the door of creativity for the public. Don’t miss #Vibrance’s Opening Reception, taking place on October 6th from 6-9pm. Click here to RSVP.

Daniella Williams

Daniella is a local Toronto painter that is centralised around community and relationships, everywhere from friends and the neighbourhood beyond. She prioritizes creating narratives that are expressive in their use of colour, paint handling and subject matter. Daniella strives to push the colour palette of the atmosphere and skin tone of her subjects towards one that comes off as vibrant and imaginative; giving the figures life and vitality. Her paintings are marked by themes of intimacy, self-reflection and voyeurism, but they are most importantly defined by the juxtaposition of the bright vibrant manner which they are painted in. Expressive brush strokes and an imaginative colour palette provides the lens for her work and aligns her paintings with the #Vibrance of life as a human being in this world.

Allen Ford

Allen has chosen collage as a medium because it so beautifully reflects how we experience and remember the things we see, and how advertisements have become such a large part of what we take in. created these collages from advertising posters ripped down, torn from, and peeled off of hoardings and walls in Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa. In their original form, each poster was the result of an intentional creative process directed by marketing and design teams. Decisions were dictated by business goals, creative briefs, target audiences, and budgets. Every element was considered and directed towards a specific outcome. Once these advertisements have been pasted and posted on the streets of cities, their makers have ceded absolute control of their work. Instead, he transforms the specific images, taking them in new directions based on his own experiences and perspectives, inviting the viewer to do the same. 

Eleanor Lowden

Toronto native Eleanor has been painting professionally for about 35 years. Her work is an interpretation of life from a happy point of view. Her style plays with patterns and repetition of forms, it is both illustrative and impressionistic too. She is inspired by many things: country roads, umbrellas, trees, polka dots, mass cultural objects, people, dogs, and most recently, spring flowers. Through these differing subjects, She is continually exploring unique compositions while creating bright, luminous paintings with her own unique colour palette. 

Nicole Dimt

Nicole, a 23-year-old painter from Toronto, got very inspired by futurist architecture and landscape while roaming Downtown Toronto at the start of her third year of university, and integrated these themes into her artwork very quickly. In her art, Nicole reflects on her childhood, projecting feelings of joy, innocence, and wonder. Nicole’s art relies heavily on the use of highly saturated and vibrant colour, as well as line, and shape. Nicole’s artwork, with themes of architecture, nature, and technology, depicts futurist, dystopian, and psychedelic wonderlands full of overwhelming detail, pattern, and fascination. Nicole’s art can be described as “organized chaos.” Nicole’s art also works hand-in-hand with the digital world, collaborating with heavy photo manipulation, colour inversion, and total distortion, adding an unnatural or synthetic quality to her paintings. This added quality to her works speaks upon the narrative of the grasp that the digital world has had on us, and how it has warped our perception of reality.

Amanda Pistillo

Amanda is a self-taught artist with a passion for designing mixed media artwork, exploring the freedom and wonder of art. Her artwork is always created with the sincere hope that they provide happiness to others, as one of the goals in designing her artwork is to encourage others to create in their own unique artistic style. Amanda's heart is at the centre of her design process, always guiding her to create with love. She presents her John Lennon Collection, as she was inspired by his passion to bring love and peace into the world.

Rahul Ojha

Rahul, as a creative by nature, his mind wanders the depths of his innermost self and the ideas and experiences that make up his core. With time, his art has evolved with his personality. While up for interpretation, his work is, in a way, a depiction of his journey through the rollercoaster of life. You can consider Rahul’s work as his life as told on canvas through acrylics and mixed media. Viewers and patrons can find meaning and the rawness of human emotion that stirs the soul. Each piece exudes sensitivity and connection, creating a visual and emotional experience that goes beyond what is in sight.

Phero

Ahmed, artistically Phero from Cairo, Egypt, is a classic 3rd generation kid; exploring a unique balance of the arts, culture & lifestyle of his ancestral origins and his surroundings. Drawing was (and still is) his form of creative expression, it is what grounds him and what helps him move through life. Phero loves all mediums of art and his own style evolved many times throughout the years. He takes great inspiration from superheroes, music, and sports - which is very evident in his works. He combines digital and traditional media in ways that are exuberant and vibrant, inviting the viewer to feel as strongly as he does when he sees his passions come to life.

Sandra Lambert

For Sandra, painting is both a playful and intense experience. Her paintings are containers of emotion. Within their boundaries she feels free to play; to lose (or find!) herself in the pleasure of sensory exploration. She enjoys exploring the use of various techniques and media to express the essence of experience. Her #Vibrance paintings represent three different approaches; three small panels on the left shock the senses with pure, intense colours in flat organic shapes. The two small panels on the right are more spontaneous, loose and lyrical. The two larger panels are dense, layered and lightly textured through the technique of scratching back. All the paintings are pulsing with colour and a sense of power, though contained exuberance. 

#Vibrance ties together the excitement and exhilaration of life and its passions and love. The combination of expression and vibrancy in this exhibit will ensure viewers have a new appreciation for livelihood and the possibilities of exploring your mind. Remember, don’t miss out on #Vibrance’s Opening Reception on Thursday, October 6th, from 6-9pm! 

Useful Links: Unique Wedding Venues Toronto, Wedding Venue Downtown Toronto

A ‘WiP (Work In Progress)’ FOR SEPTEMBER

The field of art is one with a heavy burden of expectation; perfectionism can often be the death of great creativity. Fears of failure and rejection are ultimately at the centre of this weight, and it is this very crux we wish to subvert through this exhibit WiP {Work in Progress.}

Retrieved from: https://clyffordstillmuseum.org/blog/clyfford-still-as-a-teacher/

The act of painting is an ongoing exploration of light, texture, materiality, patience and skill abounding in trials, errors and happy accidents. Studies lead to different compositions of shapes, colours and techniques without fear.

 “Within those moments of uninhibited freedom, magic happens.” (Project Art Toronto, 2022)

WiP (Work in Progress) shares the work of 5 artists from Project Art Toronto’s studio. A glimpse into their painting process and the artists' dialogue between subject matter and media. 

Each artist brings their approach to the creative process and unique artistic style and identity. Through the works of these artists, we will be able to experience the joy of exploration and self-discovery.

In the spirit of free-flowing creativity, here are 5 strategies to help capture inspiration:

1. Let go of your fear

It’s important to approach all our endeavors equipped with a sense of self-assurance and confidence! Embark on every new project with a sense of wonder and discovery, and the knowledge that your creative process is part of your art. Fear should be parted with to achieve creative flow.  It was Claude Monet when asked to give advice on painting who said to not be afraid of making mistakes. This is crucial for creativity, to let go of the things holding us back so we may let our creative spirit flow. A Harvard Business Review article by Tom Kelley and David Kelley, explains that there are four common hangups that block our creativity. They include fear of the first step, fear of being judged, fear of the messy unknown, and fear of losing control.

These fears can be the kryptonite to our creativity, but with courage and confidence, we can overcome them.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice

It’s said that to become a master of any skill, one must be prepared to dedicate over 1,000 hours. Practicing the techniques that we have learned can make inspiration more readily available. In a similar way to how one must learn to run before they can play basketball, or to play the violin before being able to play in a symphony, mastering the physical techniques and mediums we wish to work with will make it much easier to use them in our creations. 

3. Iteration is the mother of creation

It is easy to fall into the trap of wanting our first attempt to be the best and only one, but more often than not having multiple attempts and versions is what is most likely to lead to dissatisfaction. The progress made with each iteration is where the magic of creativity lives.

Retrieved From: https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/113153009366238711/

4. Reboot your brain

Often the best way to rekindle our focus and inspiration is to step back from our project altogether. Psychologist Robert Epstein, PhD, a Harvard graduate, says stress and time constraints can squash your creative process.

Here are a few ways to give your mind a reset:

• Snack break: Sometimes we focus best when we satisfy our stomachs. Find a snack to munch on while you think!

• Shake it out: If you are having trouble focusing or finding your inspiration, physical movement can be a great energizer. Get up, stretch, take a walk, or do a little dance, give your limbs and joints a shake, just move!

• Shift gears: Diverting your focus to another project or subject can help get the creative juices flowing when the well is running dry. Consider switching to an old project, watching a video about a different type of art, or even reading a book to give your brain a different influx of ideas.

• Siesta time: Sometimes the best way to reset our mind is to shut it off completely for a moment and rest. Set a timer for 15 minutes and find a cool and comfortable spot to catch a few Z’s, it can be just what your creative brain needs.

• Space out: There can be times when we can benefit the most from just disengaging our minds. Why not lie on some grass and watch the clouds pass by?

5. Take a second look

Take a moment to pause your mind, and look around you at all of the things you usually encounter, but this time, try to look beyond what you normally see. Find in its countenance the beauty or interest you might have missed. How would you describe this object, colour, or texture to someone who could not see it? 

Find the grace in the curves of a vase or cup on your table, and take in the rhythm and movement of the branches and leaves of a tree you are familiar with. Be sure to take notes of your observations and thoughts, these are just for you, so don’t worry about editing, write any thoughts that arise, or take a picture to refer back to at a later time.

 When we take a second look we can be surprised by the inspiration we find. Approaching our day-to-day surroundings with curiosity and wonder can bring about great ideas.

6. Relish where you are at

Every masterpiece has been a Work in Progress until the creator decides it is completed.  Unfinished projects possess a special quality of possibility and transition, which is beautiful in and of itself. Take a moment to appreciate your progress and the stage your project is in, without judgment or criticism, and let yourself love every aspect and minute that is a part of its journey.

Twist Gallery is thrilled to announce that we will be hosting WiP (Work in Progress) for September with Project Art Toronto. An anticipated exhibit to be featured at our space. Stay tuned for more on WiP and how the process came to life with an amazing group of artists from Project Art Toronto. 

Retrieved from:

*Harvard Business Review, Reclaim Your Creative Confidence in August 2022

**American Psychological Association, The Science of Creativity in August 2022

***Greater Good Magazine, How Mind-Wandering May Be Good For You in August 2022

Surfacing Opening Reception: A Huge Success!

Our opening reception was a huge success on Thursday, June 2nd! We curated a space that encapsulates the spirit of PROJECT ART TORONTO and it turned out looking amazing. The Surfacing Exhibit displays passion, hard work, collaboration, and creativity. Ewa Stryjnik is the director of PROJECT ART TORONTO, an art studio where artists can rent the space, attend art classes, or workshops. 

The turn out was amazing and we just wanted to thank everyone for coming! This event brought together many people around the Queen West community to acknowledge the result of expression and skill. We were pleased to host such a meaningful experience for our amazing guests and artists.

The Surfacing Exhibit is showing 21 studio artists’ supportive and passionate work, most of which were created during the times of Covid-19. Their pieces represent a time when the group encouraged each other to create, explore, and grow.

While the art was observed, our community was achieving something much more meaningful, a night of face to face communication and personal connection. Something many have lost within the past few years.

Our own Twist Gallery communications team showed up to the event in support of Twist Gallery because we love seeing the gallery filled with art and art lovers!

We are so pleased to be a part of PROJECT ART TORONTO’s exhibit and allow them to use our space to display their Surfacing pieces. It was an absolute pleasure working with a larger team this month. While we are not often approached by groups, this community allowed for an easy transition and cohesive selection of pieces to work with. PROJECT ART TORONTO utilized our space and gave us something to really admire: their passion and hard work. Ewa and PROJECT ART TORONTO’s studio artists truly love being artists and they inspire our audience to start a passion of their own, whether that be art or anything you are passionate about. 

The artists also came together during the Opening Reception to surprise Ewa with flowers and a card to show their appreciation!

Ewa Stryjnik not only inspires artists to continue their passion for art. But guides each artist to maximize their creative potential. This was perfectly displayed during our installation day and throughout our Opening Reception. Styjnik’s energy churned our blank canvas gallery into a perfectly curated template for students to display their art and a cohesive journey for patrons to participate in. While she envisioned where each piece thrived, she communicated that to her students and worked with them to find a balance between visual satisfaction and the space as a whole.

We would just like to say thank you again for coming to the Surfacing Opening Reception! We had a great time, and we hope you had a great time as well! The Surfacing Exhibit is open until June 25th, so if you missed the Opening Reception don’t worry, come experience Surfacing at Twist Gallery all month long at 1100 Queen Street West. We are open every Tuesday-Friday from 11:00am-6:00pm and Saturday from 11:00am-4:00pm. 

Looking forward to seeing you again and hearing your thoughts on the Surfacing Exhibit!

June ‘Surfacing’ Group Exhibit with PROJECT ART TORONTO

This June, Twist Gallery is excited to partner with PROJECT ART TORONTO to showcase the ‘Surfacing’ Group Exhibit. ‘Surfacing’ will showcase art from 21 studio artists, created during the two years of Covid-19. ‘Surfacing’ is about strength, hard work and supportive camaraderie. The exhibit will run from June 2nd- 25th, 2022. ‘Surfacing’ will be having an Opening Reception at Twist Gallery on June 2nd, at 6pm- 9pm. Meet the artists and supporters of PROJECT ART TORONTO and Twist Gallery. The Opening Reception and exhibit are both free to attend. 

Ewa Stryjnik is PROJECT ART TORONTO’s director since the studio opened in May 2010. PROJECT ART TORONTO is an art studio that offers classes, workshops and studio spaces for artists to work on their own. “The studio is alive 24/7. PROJECT ART is an unfolding art pursuit,” Ewa says.

Photo by PROJECT ART TORONTO.

We had a conversation with Ewa and she shared a little more about PROJECT ART TORONTO and what ‘Surfacing’ means to her.

Twist Gallery: Why was PROJECT ART TORONTO started?

Ewa: For about 10 years, I was an art instructor at the Art Gallery of Ontario School of Art. 

In 2010, AGO School of Art received funding to renovate the school and all instructors, including myself, were laid off. My students encouraged me to find a new space where they could continue painting. In May 2010, PROJECT ART TORONTO was born.

Twist Gallery: Can you explain what PROJECT ART TORONTO is?

Ewa: PROJECT ART TORONTO is an art studio where students and artists can develop their paintings independently with guidance and suggestions from instructor Ewa Stryjnik. For years we offered structured classes but since most of the artists continued attending classes, it naturally evolved into an Open Studio practice where artists can experiment with different techniques and develop their own styles. There are scheduled Open Studio classes as well as the option to rent a studio space on a daily, weekly or on monthly basis. 

PROJECT ART TORONTO occasionally invites artist instructors to teach workshops. Instructors can rent our studio by the hour to teach workshops and/or classes. It’s a great way to share our space and for students to learn new perspectives and approaches. Our studio welcomes students and artists of all ages and we greatly value the camaraderie and support of our studio artists.

Twist Gallery: What does art mean to you as the director of PROJECT ART TORONTO?

Ewa: My biggest passion is to discover and point out the natural, creative talent in every person. Everyone is unique and should be proud of their own style and ideas. Secondly, I like to motivate all my artists to work hard and have a disciplined routine to master their technique and style. As I often say: “Passion to start, work to achieve.”

Photo by PROJECT ART TORONTO.

Twist Gallery: What does Project Art mean to you as the director?

Ewa: It means an Artist Studio! I’m happy that we have the space where we can paint, gather, chat, have classes, workshops and studio spaces for artists to work on their own. The studio is alive 24/7. Project art is an unfolding art pursuit. Also, I’m very grateful for all the friendships that developed throughout the years. In a way, our studio is our life and time capsule. A safe place where we can escape to and find a supportive camaraderie. 

Twist Gallery: When did the artists paint the ‘Surfacing’ exhibit artwork?

Ewa: Most of the paintings were created during the Covid times. The lockdowns allowed the artists to paint more. Our group encouraged each other to create, explore and grow.

Photo by PROJECT ART TORONTO.

Twist Gallery: Can you explain how the ‘Surfacing’ artwork represents irrepressible creativity, undeterred spirit and a commonality of strength?

Ewa: During the uncertain times of Covid, we pulled ourselves together. In our commonality of strength, we focused on painting and improving our techniques. Painting became a positive outlet, a haven from the anxieties of the outside world. We realized that the beauty of art is very much needed these days. I hope that the paintings in our group exhibition ‘Surfacing,’ will showcase and celebrate that beauty and positivity of life and humanity. 

Twist Gallery: How do you feel about Twist Gallery partnering with PROJECT ART TORONTO?

Ewa: It’s so great that venues like Twist Gallery exist. It is a beautiful, very cool gallery-event space that is large enough to host our group exhibition. We’re very grateful that Twist Gallery rents their space to the local artists allowing us to share our art with a new audience. I hope that our paintings will brighten up many lives and that we’ll be able to exhibit at Twist Gallery in the future. It is a pleasure to work with Twist Gallery art director Nadia Kakridonis and her team.

Photo by PROJECT ART TORONTO.

The 21 featuring ‘Surfacing’ artists are: Peggy Bell, Zora Bily, Maureen Bradshaw, Jeff Briggs, Geoffrey Cheung, Donna Chudnow, Marlene Etherington, Vian Ewart, Liz Haney, Andrea Higgins, Lisa Litowitz, Katharine Lochnan, Larissa Mattwich, Diana Menzies, Wendy Robertson, Janna Robins-Walters, Lisa Rose, Javier Silva, Linda Snowden, Ewa Stryjnik, and Selina Waxman. 

We are so excited to be partnering with PROJECT ART TORONTO for the ‘Surfacing’ group exhibit. ‘Surfacing’ is about 21 studio artist’s passion and hard work. Even in difficult times, the artists encouraged each other to create, explore and grow. Experience ‘Surfacing’ in person, opening June 2nd- 25th, 2022 at Twist Gallery. Don’t miss your chance to meet the artists, attend the Opening Reception June 2nd, at 6pm- 9pm. Twist Gallery is open Tuesday- Friday, 11am- 6pm, and Saturdays 11am- 4pm.

Unconventional Wedding Ideas to Make Your Day Even More Unique

Your wedding day is supposed to be the most magical day of your life– full of love, friends, and family. That being said, traditional weddings aren’t the only way to go. Having personalised, different touches will give you and your guests a special experience that will leave a unique memory and inspire everyone to think a little bit outside of the box. Whether it is the wedding venue, food, or decorations, creativity will always shine through. At the end of the day, always do what makes you and your partner happy. Here are some ideas to inspire you: 

1. Unique Wedding Cake

Flavours aren’t the only thing you can customise in your wedding cake. There are so many unique options to do instead of your standard white tiered wedding cake. Going for a cake made of donuts, cupcakes, crepes, (or sushi?!) allows for your guests to actually enjoy a piece of cake without the mess and stress of cutting it evenly. Top it off with customised bobble head figurines of you and your partner for an extra touch of humour and cuteness.

2. Not-So-Typical Outfit

There is no denying that a long extravagant white gown is beautiful, timeless, and symbolic of a wedding day. That being said, there is nothing more symbolic than a statement outfit. Try a white pantsuit or 2 piece set instead of a traditional ball gown. It is both bold and memorable to step outside of the typical expectations. If you still want to wear a dress, opt for a short and breezy dress– perfect for summer and more comfortable to dance in all night! Speaking of comfort, always keep a pair of comfortable dancing shoes with you. Your feet will thank you later.

3. Book a Cool, Modern Art Gallery Instead of a Regular Event Hall

Let’s face it… we should leave the event halls for business conferences and high school proms. The wedding venue is the very basis of your special day, and choosing a venue that is beautiful and unique, enriched with art and culture can completely transform the magical feeling of celebrating love. In Toronto, there are countless galleries and event spaces to choose from– most notable Twist Gallery on Queen St W. This space offers open, high ceilings, huge beautiful windows, and is lined with incredible art from local artists to help you celebrate your day. Call (416) 588-2222 for more information.

4. Toss Out Bouquet Toss for a Fun New Game Instead

As fun as tossing the bouquet is, the game is admittedly not very exciting or inclusive to every wedding guest. If you’re opting for an outside wedding, consider setting up cornhole, bocce ball, or giant jenga to ensure all your guests can join in the fun. If your venue is indoors, have interactive games like Connect 4, Chess, and Tic Tac Toe stations. Add a DIY craft station to encourage creativity and allow your guests to leave you special little gifts to commemorate the magical day.

5. Audio Recorded Guest Book

You’re probably wondering what we mean by an audio recorded guest book. Well, it’s exactly that: a guest book full of sweet messages that you can listen to over and over! Your guests can leave you messages that will create the sweetest playlist of all time. Have both audio and written guest books if you want double the love!

6. Unique Centrepieces

Although flowers and greenery are undeniably beautiful, they are basic wedding centrepieces that do not necessarily “WOW” a crowd. We suggest doing something more personal, something that reflects you and your partners personalities and can be sent home as wedding gifts for your guests. Pile 5-10 of your favourite books on each table, books that tell your loved ones the stories that moved you and the words that left their mark on you. They will likely not be reading during the wedding, but they can take home the book that stood out to them the most, and hopefully pass it on to someone else they love after.

At the end of the day, all that matters on your wedding day is you and your partner celebrating your love with the people who mean the most to you. Everything else is just details– but within these details is where you can get creative, exciting, and fun. Create unforgettable memories in unique ways by expressing your love with these little tips!

A Guide to Installing Art for a Twist Exhibition

What You Will Need To Showcase Your Work!

Welcome to Twist! We are so happy to have you showing your work here in our gallery space!

Installing Art is not as complicated as some would have you believe, all you really need are a

few tools and willpower. Whether this is your first showing ever or you’re a seasoned veteran

when it comes to showings, here are a few things to remember when it’s your time to come in

and install your work.

1. Tools to bring

Level, Ruler/Tape Measure, Pencil; marking and adjusting placement

Hammer and Nail; manual power, no batteries needed

Levels are great tools to ensure that pieces are hung correctly, facing the viewer straight on from

a 90 degree plane with the top and bottom corners aligning perpendicularly. Using a measuring

tape ensures accurate measurements and is not limited to retrying to find the perfect spot, but it’s

always better to use a pencil, not a pen, in case your measurements are not exact and need

changing. While these tools may be your best friends, they would be useless if the hammer and

nails were forgotten.

2. Calculate Height

57 inches (“) is the ‘Plum Line’ or median height

Drop indicates space between top of stretched wire and top of frame

Height of Piece minus (-) Wire Drop plus (+) 57” = Nail Height

Calculating the height at which you should place your nail to hang the piece is based on a few

factors; one of which being whether the piece has a wire hanging or if your piece will hang

directly off the nails. If your piece has no wire, find a spot where the top of the piece can rest and

balance on the nail; if your piece is small, one nail should be enough to support the work, while

larger pieces will need two or three nails.

3. Nails Not Screws

Screws do not Protect integrity of Walls

Angle nail head 45 degrees away from wall

Use Flat Head 1 1⁄2 inch nails

Flat Head 1 1⁄2 inch nails work best for their stability and strength while being small enough to

easily patch over. Angling the nail to be 45 degrees facing outward from the wall ensures a

minimal chance of the nail coming loose and dropping the work. Using a hammer and nails

opposed to screws makes your installation easier and keeps our walls intact with minimal

damage. There’s also no batteries required unlike power tools.

4. Hanging the Work

Whether hanging a frame with a wire or hanging a canvas directly onto the wall, use tape

measure to find spots on the wall to accurately and carefully balance the work so it shows

straight on to the viewers. Ensure the work rests on its balance point(s) and has the corners all at

90 degrees next to a level to make it centered for the audience.

5. Final Touches

Clear labels with all info encouraged to be hung with the work.

Information should be typed out and readily available to be placed onto the wall next to your

work(s). The more information for the viewer the better; what materials are used, what are the

dimensions, what year, what’s the name, what’s the artist’s name, etc.

Example of Proper Hanging and Labelling:

Art by JJ Smolkin

We hope you have found these tips useful when hanging art in our space or your own! If you

managed to put up work thanks to these tips, tag us and let us see your hanging job.