Whether it’s a feeling or memory, art can evoke powerful emotions within us. Art can serve many purposes, from beautifying our homes by adding a personal touch to inspiring or comforting us upon sight. Art is truly personal – beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Buying original art for your home is an investment that will bring you enjoyment for years to come, while adding mood and character to your living space. Art creates memories, which can be passed down through the generations, and it can also gain value over time.
Toronto is home to some truly magnificent artists. Buying art locally supports the livelihood of artists, and keeps the creation of art alive and well. Here are 7 awe-inspiring local Toronto artists whose art you could take home today:
1. Maureen Faith O’Connor – Photography
https://www.maureenfaithoconnor.com
IG: @maureenfaithoconnor
Reverence, photograph
Maureen O’Connor is an award-winning, art-based photographer whose work focuses on architecture and still life. O’Connor graduated from OCAD and has been featured in international publications and media. She currently has a new studio sale and fundraiser where $25-$50 of each sale will be donated to local wildlife rehab sanctuaries.
- Ramona Nordal – Mixed Media
https://www.ramonanordal.com
IG: @ramonanordal
Caravan Study #23, acrylic and bic pen on panel
Ramona Nordal began her career at the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design in Vancouver, British Columbia. There she studied under renowned Canadian artist Dennis Burton. Her ambitious use of colour and style of acrylic painting creates an overwhelming sense of energy. Nordal thrives on mixing past and present cultural influences, which give her paintings a truly unique aesthetic.
- Jamie MacRae – Mixed Media
https://jamiemacrae.com
IG: @jamiemacraeart
My City 341, mixed media on wooden panel with resin
Jamie MacRae is a Toronto-based artist with a background in design. His artwork consists of photography and acrylic paint, layered beneath resin. Combining his altered photo images with acrylic paint, MacRae plays with the juxtaposition of abstraction and urbanity. His collection entitled “My City” is inspired by his love for and the energy of the City of Toronto.
- Masood Omer – Painting
https://www.artinteriors.ca/artists/masood-omer
IG: @masood1519
Spadina Morning, acrylic on canvas
Originally from Karachi, Masood Omer has three diplomas in fine art: two from Pakistan’s Central Institute of Arts and one from the Art Centre at Central Tech in Toronto. Omer is a lover of art, and his paintings of figures, still life and landscapes carry influences from all genres of art. His forte is painterly style, and most of his works are done ‘alla prima.’ Omer currently resides in Richmond Hill, ON.
- Jeff Goodman – Glass
https://www.jeffgoodmanstudio.com
IG: @jeffgoodmanstudio
Penny Vine, blown glass, with satin copper metal finish
Growing up on the west coast, Jeff Goodman was always inspired by nature. His first love was woodwork, but while studying at Sheridan College in Ontario, he grew to love glass. After earning a degree in fine arts, Goodman began a three-year residency at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, where he grew his portfolio and reputation as one of Canada’s preeminent glass blowers. In 1989, Goodman established the Jeff Goodman Studio and began pushing the boundaries of glass design.
- Thomas M Sinclair – Woodland Art
https://tmswoodlandart.ca
IG: @tmswoodlandart
Naming Ceremony, acrylic on canvas
Thomas Sinclair is Ojibway from Couchiching First Nation. He grew up in Thunder Bay and immersed himself in the woodland art movement, and studied under Isadore Wadow. Facing some difficult personal challenges and the reality of systemic racism, Sinclair turned to art to not only heal himself, but his people. Sinclair’s paintings are bold, colourful and symbolic, giving light to darkness and bringing balance to life.
- Rina Gottesman – Painting
https://www.rinagottesman.com
IG: @rinagottesman
Once Again I, mixed media on paper
An award-winning artist, Rina Gottesman is known for her strong sense of colour and design. Through her use of lines and texture, Gottesman’s abstract paintings are bold and expressive. Whether she is working with acrylic or mixed media, Gottesman always seeks to create new and interesting effects often by hiding words, text or collages within her artworks for the viewer to discover.
What are your favourite local Toronto artists, and do you enjoy using art to decorate your home? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, Twitter or Instagram) to let us know!