By Lauren Walker June 2026

Although her work has won awards, she admits “I believe that I am still becoming an artist. Learning, developing and evolving means diving a bit deeper than the superficial. Creativity means confronting what makes us who we are. Art is about more than just paint on canvas, we paint with our heart and soul.

Personal Growth

Currently she is working with a brilliant psychologist and coach Erin Mantis. The course is called Awakening to Harmonious Integration. “I’m creating the artwork for it, which is being used to support and deepen the experience of the program. It’s been really meaningful for me to be part of something that blends creativity with personal growth, and to see how art can help people connect more deeply with themselves.” An important facet of becoming an artist means diving more deeply in to one self. It seems through this exploration that it creates a deeper connection. It’s about opening yourself up and allowing your true self to come through your work.

Nurturing Creativity

Taking courses “with local artists who I admire including Gretta Gibney, Linda Kalianteris and Sandy Mackenzie” is part of her success thus far. “I joined Boldschool which is an online community of mentors and artists founded by Canadian artist Charla Maarschalk, which really opened up my art world.” While she has dabbled with various mediums, acrylic is her go to. “I chose acrylics mostly for the quick drying which makes the layering process easier.” Sandra notes that her inspiration comes from fellow artists whom she meets in person or via social media. Part of becoming a better artist means investing in yourself and taking courses from those who can guide you in the right direction.

Personal achievement

Sandra McQuade can add an honorable mention to her résumé for her piece “The Wedge Between Us” which was part of the 2026 Oshawa Art Association’s Juried Art Exhibition at The Robert McLaughlin Gallery. She also won jurors choice

in 2025 at the Art Guild of Scarborough for her piece “Manhattan Mist.” Also having work published in the book, “When we forgive” is a source of pride for this talented artist.

Finding Yourself

“You will have days when you feel the “Imposter syndrome”, and the “I am not good enough” chatter in your head.” What does Sandra turn to? “On those days I try to turn to “The Artists Way” by Julia Cameron or “Syllabus” by Lynda Barry. Both books help me slow down and get grounded again.” We need to find a way to calm the mind and remember that while we are artists, we are still growing and changing all the time. What is something you can turn to in times of inner turmoil? She encourages you to “remember that there is plenty of room for all of our many styles, mediums, and visions.”

“Keep creating!”

Find Sandra’s work on instagram @sandramcquadeartfulcoachingescription text goes here

Yvonne works with acrylic and mixed media on canvas. “It’s exciting entering my studio painting, exploring and being alert to suggestions that arrive in the process of painting.” She is in tune and open to ideas which allow her to dive into the process of change as it unfolds. Yvonne captures the beauty of continuous change in her work. 

The imagery in nature provides interesting possibilities. She is intrigued by events in nature that happen as a result of seasonal changes. These changes in nature represent visual symbols of continuous changes in all life forms. Her piece Early Morning Orange won an Honorable mention last year at the OAA Juried show. “Painting intuitively, I create tactile paintings by layering mixed media, producing abstract paintings that are harmonious blends of colour and texture. This creates a low relief effect.” Her award winning piece is a fine example of her creative process and why nature is a true inspiration.

Learn from each other

She reminds us that, “As artists we find our own style and passion.” It’s imperative that we also learn from each other. Beginner artists should attend meetings, take workshops and participate where and when they can. Participate in shows and festivals. “I really enjoyed the Spring Art Festival at Camp Samac last year and will be participating again this year.”

Our surroundings are constantly changing. In the blink of an eye, you may miss the subtle evolution of one season to the next. It is with a keen eye and a connection to her surroundings, that Yvonne captures a moment in time. Finding beauty in change is the essence of her work and we look forward to seeing what she does next. 

Find her work: 

Instagram: @y.h.meissner 
Facebook: Yvonne Meissner
Happy Painting! 

by Lauren Walker, February 2026

“I’m interested in how contrast works: softness against grit, order interrupted by spontaneity, humour sharing space with gravity.” Bille Von Roeder is a unique voice in the artist community. Her work expresses a genuine experience of life as it unfolds. “I’m drawn to the social fabric around me and to current themes that quietly shape how we live, think, and connect.” Following an authentic voice has truly shaped her journey as an artist.

The Process of Creation

Her process is intuitive and tactile. “I build my images from gelli-printed papers, hand-made patterns, expressive mark making, and found materials—newspapers, magazines, and fragments that already carry a history.” Incorporating acrylic paint allows her to pull all the elements together, collaging ideas and emotions into a visual narrative. The collage process mirrors a life from different chapters, emotions and transformations. “Playful colours and animals show whimsy, while torn and rebuilt textures reveal resilience, curiosity and a deep comfort with complexity and change.”

Lester the Lobster

An award-winning piece at the 57th Annual Oshawa Artist Association Juried show in 2025, the idea was born from a trip out east. On a trip to PEI, “I found a lobster claw on the beach and was captivated by its colours.” Even with an idea in mind, struggles present themselves. The biggest challenge was letting go of the idea that the water must be blue. Attempting to work with blue didn’t feel right, even after several tries. “The water became red, echoing the PEI soil and the colors that first inspired Lester.” Learning to let go obviously worked in Bille’s favour and clearly this piece stood out at last year’s show.

Moving Forward

Definitely not one to sit still, Bille is the current resident artist at The Scugog Arts in Port Perry, Ontario. Her work is currently on display. She also has a show in September at the John Gagne Contemporary Gallery in Toronto. We are also looking forward to seeing her submissions for the upcoming OAA Juried Show.

Find Your Authentic Voice

It is obvious that Bille is on the right track and not one to give out advice, she encourages others,

“Stay open to change. Letting the work evolve freely often leads to the most honest and exciting results.”

The biggest lesson to take away is to follow your inner voice because it will lead you in the right direction. I believe this drive for authenticity has led to much-deserved success for Bille.

See her work: www.billemixedmedia.com

Julia’s love of painting started when she was young, “When I was six I went to a new school where they had art classes. I remember so well working with poster paint! I did a painting called “The Wedding.” My teacher entered it into a show and it was displayed at The Royal Drawing Society’s Exhibition – Competition in London, England. I still have the painting!

Lovely Landscapes
An imaginative and unique perspective helps create outstanding landscapes. She started off using water color and oil. Julia finally decided that acrylic was her medium of choice. “I like the vibrancy and the fact that it dries fast.” Her work obviously speaks for itself as her landscapes have made it in the OAA Juried show several times. She notes that, amongst many of her creative achievements, “Winning Landscape artist award twice at the RMG show with the OAA” has been a highlight. Her piece “My Happy Place” won at the 57th annual Oshawa Artist Association Juried show last year. Julia is also looking forward to selling more of her work at the next Camp Samac show in the Spring.

Success as An Artist
Julia is adamant that in order to succeed as an artist, “Paint a lot, take workshops, look at books. Paint with other people.” Learning means making plenty of mistakes so in order to move forward, you can’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It also means taking active steps towards improving and being around others allows you to feed off positive energy. The message is really quite simple, “Join a group, take workshops, go to galleries and local art shows.” Immerse yourself with like-minded people and doors will start to open.

Advice for Beginners
“There is a book called Daily Painting by Carol Marine. This is one of my favorite art books with invaluable info on getting started.” Julia recognizes the invaluable influence of joining art groups such as the OAA, “Members can share their knowledge which will be so beneficial.” Julia reminds us all the influence that other artists can have on your work. Being a part of the creative community means making meaningful connections.

Being a successful artist is about making time for what you love.

Art is her happy place and if her story can teach us anything, it can be your happy place too.

Find her on instagram: @Julia_hitchcockart

Carol Matsuyama is a friend and whom I greatly admire as an artist. Her love of art started at seven-years-old, “I got a new box of 64 Crayola crayons and fell in love with the exotic (to a seven-year-old) colours: periwinkle, turquoise, salmon. It was so exciting!” Influenced by her father who was a very talented watercolour artist, you could say being an artist is in her blood. It was an arts and science program at her high school, “I took an elective art class where my art teacher was very influential. He introduced me to Art History and the study of other artists.” As a mature student she studied art in University as well. 

Moving in the Right Direction 

Carol mostly uses acrylic paint and as some regard it as quite forgiving,   “I think it is quite a difficult medium. The colours are so transparent that it requires many layers of paint to get an opaque effect, which is what I want in my paintings.” Carol was able to showcase her pieces at her gallery show in July 2025 at the Kent Farndale Gallery. “The response and reviews were overwhelmingly positive. This was affirming and validating because my art has undergone a transformation over the last five years and now I know I’m moving in the right direction.” It goes to show you that your work is constantly evolving and growing as an artist. Her piece, “In bloom” was the People’s Choice winner at the 2025 OAA Juried show at the McLaughlin Gallery. It’s clear that whatever direction she goes, she’s proven to be a winner. 

Follow Your Art

A wonderful piece of advice came from her grade six teacher, “Good, better, best, Never let them rest, When the good is better, Make the better best.” This resonates with Carol as it is a reminder to keep pushing forward. It is also an excellent reminder to all beginner artists to strive for improvement in their work. “Don’t worry about selling or what other people think, just make art that you would want to keep for yourself and not part with. Then people will see your passion and feel more from your art.” Art is about painting from your soul and that will allow people to connect with it. 

Future Goals 

“I just want to keep growing with my art and keep exploring new ways to paint still life. It’s my dream to have a painting hanging in a museum or gallery. A girl can dream!” It’s obvious that Carol aims high and challenges herself. I reiterate the words of a wise grade 6 teacher and remind you, 

“When the good is better,
Make the better best.”

https://www.carolmatsuyama.com
facebook.com/artbycarolmatsuyama

Happy Painting!

1. What is your art medium of choice and why?

I love working with acrylics! They’re so versatile and let me play with bold colors and textures. But I also enjoy bringing unexpected materials into my art, especially things that are usually thrown away, like sawdust. It’s fascinating how something so ordinary can transform into a beautiful texture on a canvas. I think that challenge keeps me inspired. I’m always curious to see how different materials can add new stories and depth to my work, and I’d love to experiment with even more unconventional mediums in the future.

2. Your piece “Rainbow Reflections” received an Award of Excellence at the RMG juried show. How did this piece come about, and what inspired it?

Rainbow Reflections was born after I watched a documentary about coral reefs and how they’re bleaching due to pollution and climate change. Seeing those once-colorful ecosystems fade to white really moved me. I wanted to capture both their vibrancy and their vulnerability, the beauty and the heartbreak that exist together. Using sawdust gave the piece a raw, tactile feel, almost like the corals themselves. It became the perfect way to express that delicate balance of life under the sea, reminding us how fragile and precious these worlds are.

3. You take part in so many OAA events! What’s been your favorite part of being a member of the Oshawa Art Association?

OAA will always be special to me! It’s the very first art association I joined after moving to Canada! So many of my “firsts” happened here: my first in-person gallery show, my first art show, and even my first paint battle. Every experience has been so memorable. But what I love most is the community itself. The OAA is full of kind, talented, and encouraging artists who genuinely support each other. It’s such a great way to connect with local creatives, learn new things, and feel part of something bigger. I’ve grown so much as an artist thanks to this group.

Bio

Vidhya Srijesh is an Oshawa-based artist whose work celebrates the beauty and energy of nature and wildlife. Ever since she was a child, Vidhya has been fascinated by the natural world, spending hours watching National Geographic and Animal Planet, and dreaming of the vibrant creatures and ecosystems they showcased.

Her art brings that sense of wonder to life through bold colors, layered textures, and a playful mix of materials. While she mainly works with acrylics, Vidhya loves experimenting with unconventional elements like sawdust to create her signature textured surfaces that mimic coral reefs, sand, and other natural formations.

Balancing life as a full-time professional, wife, and mom, she pours her passion into every painting, infusing it with joy, emotion, and purpose. Her goal is to inspire people to see the beauty around them and to care for it. Collectors often say her work “makes them smile,” which to her is the best compliment possible. Through her art, Vidhya hopes to bring a little more color, happiness, and appreciation for the world we share.

Vidhya Srijesh

https://vidhyasrijesh.art/

The Perfect Mix to Make You Smile

It’s evident when you speak with Patty Bowman Kingsley that she creates from her heart and soul. She has a longstanding connection with creativity and her connection goes beyond physical. It is a spiritual experience that allows her to connect with and lift those in her company.

Although her creative journey started young, it wasn’t until her later years she discovered her true purpose, “I realized that the best use of my history and personal agency is to lead community transformation in arts and culture nationwide through creating, activating, mentoring, and publishing.” Her goal is not just to create, but to help create a better world through active leadership.

Just like keys on the piano, “while only one inch deep, create a dynamic range of sound and experience unique to my personhood in creative expression.” Faith plays a large part in her life and clearly represented in her art. Patty serves the community in whatever way is needed. This means creating with a multitude of mediums and working independently or collaboratively.

She admits that sketching and portraiture are her first love. Patty has been working on a three-year project called, “Beauty in the Ashes” which has been her focus.

“Now, as I explore sculpture within that theme and the complexity of abstraction, my heart is whole. I may return to realism and portraiture, yet I love the challenge of the work in front of me.” Her hard work paid off when her piece, “Vessel of Honour” was awarded at the OAA Annual Juried show earlier this year.

It is clear that Patty Bowman Kingsley is a force for good and her creativity is forged in faith. I wish I could dedicate more space and time to encapsulating everything I learned about her. She is dedicated to her practice and not only that, the success of others. The clearest lesson I learned is the value placed in community. “Create, learn, volunteer, and support those you want to learn from, in what they are doing. What is caught and taught by them will transform your practice.” It is by working together we can transform the world around us.

PATRICIA BOWMAN KINGSLEY
https://www.pattykingsley.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pattybowmankingsley
https://www.instagram.com/pattykingsley/

Charity Donations Canada https://actcanada.givingfuel.com/kingsley

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Betty McGowan. She won an honorable mention in the 2025 OAA Juried Show in the Non Objective Abstract category.

As an intuitive abstract artist, much of her work does not have a planned result. “I will choose my colours and a mood or a feeling that I wish to capture. The painting may end up portraying this mood. As the process goes, the direction can change on a whim. “Partway through the process, the painting will speak to me.” The painting may start one way and end up quite different than what was anticipated. The mood in her painting changes as her feelings reveal themselves.

As many artists do, they change course, “I started out working in watercolour, but now I work exclusively in acrylic. Having experience with watercolour, I love the look and feel of the paint mingling on the canvas, creating the wonderful fusion of two colours.” Recently, she has been exploring something new. Betty is moving away from her usual spontaneous style to a multiple-layered style. “I am still attempting to keep the freshness and energy I love so much.”

Her words of encouragement are simple and clear, “Try it, try it, try it!” The goal is to learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to experiment. “Mix, mix, mix those colors and then try them out on paper or canvas to see what they really look like in action!” It’s important to note that in the process of experimenting, you’re going to make mistakes. “Take these “failures” as a sign of progress.”

It's clear that Betty finds the joy in spontaneity. The lesson is to let the feelings flow off your paintbrush and onto canvas.

Thank you Betty McGowan for sharing your journey!