maya. music. art.

Back to back art happenings!

2012-02-24T09:18:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the "You make my ART beat" party and art show by Lemonjellow productions! As mentioned before, it'll be jam packed with lovely art! We've also got live music for the evening show:)

But if you are looking for something fun to do Sunday afternoon, I will be showing my art during the 19th Annual Winter Garden Party (Britannia Park - Ron-Kolbus Centre)11:30-2:00pm.
Afterwards, my fellow studio mates and I will be opening up our studios just next door! (I just moved into this amazing studio this week.)

Join us for lunch, meet your neighbors, and enjoy a great winter day!
Model Car Racing – Guest appearance!

Don’t miss out on these activities!
• Horse-drawn sleigh ride
• Moon bounce
• “Cheek Art” and crafts
• Dog show
• Maple-taffy, cotton candy
• Marshmallow open-fire roast
• Scavenger quiz
• Fabulous draw prizes
• Music and more!

Information: 613-828-4313
Britannia Park
(Pinecrest & Carling)
102 Greenview Avenue

Sunday, February 26, 2012
11:30 am – 2:00 pm

Artist Studio Tour: Gardener’s
House 104 Greenview Avenue
2:00 pm – 4:00pm

I got my paints out!... this is what happened!

2012-02-22T14:39:00.000-08:00

Here's my new painting and mixed media project. I am trying to make some extra colorful/brighter pieces...I really had to fight my urge to make everything monotone to be honest. But I think this works?

Anyways, more arty delights such as this painting will be on display at THIS SATURDAY's "You make my ART beat" art show & party by Lemonjellow Productions.

UPDATE! There's going to be live music for the evening show! You should drop by:)

You make my ART beat - February art show and party

2012-02-01T06:31:00.000-08:00

I am doing another show with Lemonjellow productions this month! I will be displaying mixed media drawings and paintings, hope to see you there:) Other artists featured include Julie LaPalme, Grace Scorrar, Greta Grip, Roy Whiddon and Daniel Martelock!
Here are the details and poster (designed by yours truly).
You make my ART beat!

"Since it's a leap year and February has thrown us an extra day of lovin' Lemonjellow Productions is celebrating the month of LUV with eye candy that will dazzle your eyes in a fabulous setting in Sandy Hill. Glen, Shawn and Louis will welcome you into their love den on February 25th from noon to 5 followed by more fun and misadventures in the evening from 7 until we kick you out." - Lemonjellow Productions

Year of the Dragon - international print exhibit and exchange

2012-01-09T21:44:00.000-08:00

I have been working away on my contribution to Toronto's Proof Studio Gallery's annual International Year of the Dragon Print Exhibit and Exchange. The first print is kept and used for the exhibition. The other prints are offered for sale or used for the exchange.

Here are some pictures. As usual, it seems I've gone with the cute and simple theme. Linocut and watercolour on Masa paper, hand pressed with my trusty metal spoon! haha. I believe this will make it my 5th year participating.

PROOF Studio Gallery is located in Toronto’s historic Distillery District: Studio 104, Case Goods Warehouse, Bldg. 74, 55 Mill Street.
Exhibition runs from January 26 – February 12, 2012
Their opening is on Saturday, January 28th from 2 – 5pm works are for sale

Locally, The Ottawa-Gatineau Printmakers Connective will also organize a display showcasing our print contribitions at the Ottawa School of Art:
35 George Street
February 6 – March 5, 2012

UPDATE! The due date for this call for submission has been extended to January 25th! If you think you would like to participate in this show, visit their blog. Or contact Proof Studio Gallery.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T08:59:00.000-08:00

Another year has passed, full of great new experiences and opportunities in the arts. Thank-you everyone for checking out my blog and website! Your support means so much to me. 2012, here I come!

Cyclelogik Art Show

2011-12-15T13:16:00.000-08:00


"Grooving" one of two pieces I have in this show

Cyclelogick's 4th Annual Holiday Show OCCUPY is still on display (until Jan. 8th). If you are in the beautiful Wellington West area (Hintonburg, Ottawa) please drop by this lovely shop! There is affordable art for all tastes, coffee, and oh so fancy bikes and bike stuff. Here's some pictures!

"Babysitting" the bunny watching television in the bottom left corner is my other piece!

Another show starts tomorrow night!

2011-12-08T19:10:00.001-08:00

In addition to the Lemon Jellow show (see below), my art will be featured in another exhibit opening tomorrow night: Cyclelogick's 4th Annual Holiday Show - OCCUPY!
Opens Friday Dec. 9th, 2011 - 8-11:30pm
Featuring fabulous food by Essence Catering
More than 40 local emerging and established artists will OCCUPY the walls of Cyclelogik!
Come for the art, the music, the party, the food, lots of interesting surprises, and the friendly vibe. This is one of Ottawa's BEST parties! Tell your friends!

Lemon Jellow Productions Holiday Event Starts Tomorrow!

2011-12-08T14:02:00.001-08:00


"Need a ride home" by Maya Hum up for sale

This year I started working with a fantastic arts collective called Lemon Jellow Productions. Our next event is "Deck the halls with ART from Lemon Jellow." Back to back parties from 8pm ’til midnight on Friday (tomorrow!), December 9 & Saturday, December 10. Come for caffeine and cookies on Sunday from noon to 5 pm. Location: 25 Charlevoix St. Ottawa

This pARTy is a two for one deal. You get to knock off a few names from your shopping list plus you get to share some Xmas cheer with a bunch of folks. A DJ will be spinning some toe tapping tunes and our mystery re-gifting table will raise some dough for Pink Triangle YOuth.

Lemonjellow pARTies are wicked networking gigs too so who knows what opportunities may slip if you give it a miss. Julie’s rounded up a bevy of artists who are keen on beautifying your walls and those of your loved ones this holiday season.
Delightful elves will greet you at the door with a holiday smile and if you’re lucky you’ll find yourself under the mistletoe.
So bring your kissing lips and your dancing legs and your strong arms for carrying some art home.

Pic-a-tures!

2011-12-07T22:15:00.001-08:00

Some pictures leading up to my opening last week....

Working late at the studio...

Organizing my pieces for the show

It's starting to get official...

not an opening without some drinks and munchies!

Pieces are in place, let the show begin!

Thank-you everyone for coming out and showing your support on my opening night! (And to those who came to visit me tonight for my second gallery/studio showing!) It really means a lot to me.

Next, is to start working on posting these pieces on my website so viewers can get a closer look. I will let you know when they are up!
Thanks again!

Lines in Progress - Update

2011-12-02T09:15:00.001-08:00

Thank-you everyone who braved the rain to come out to my Lines in Progress opening. For those who could not make it, I will be holding additional gallery hours Wednesday, December 7th, from 5-9pm. I will also open up my studio!

101 FRAMES: GLUTTONY

2011-11-30T20:31:00.001-08:00

This Saturday night I will be attending Gallery 101's Annual 101 frames show and silent auction. I created a mixed media piece for this show of a piggie drinking wine! (giggle) Come out for the art, the great party and an awesome cause. I hope to see you there! Details below:

101 FRAMES: GLUTTONY
Gallery 101's Annual Fundraiser!

Saturday, December 3, 2011 • 7pm–1am
4-240 Bank Street, Ottawa (Lisgar entrance)
Featuring: MC China Doll • DJ Jas Nasty
Dog and Pony Sound karaoke

101 FRAMES, Gallery 101’s largest annual fundraiser, is thinking “outside the frame” with its 7-year plan to raise some hell in downtown Ottawa. On Saturday, December 3rd, 2011, Gallery 101, will host this highly respected and anticipated event—the fourth of its seven years of THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS. Each year, we ask artists to interpret a different deadly sin. Last year’s event, WRATH, which followed 2008’s LUST and 2009’s PRIDE, was an rabble-rousing success, with anger-inducing artwork, moody DJs spinning vicious tunes, and a bar to indulge at.
This year, G101 encouraged local and regional artists to voraciously create artwork about the most delicious sin in the bunch: GLUTTONY, for this year’s silent art auction, which is followed by a tantalizingly tasty dance and karaoke party, hosted by the scrumptiously funny China Doll. Other tempting features of the event will include some yummy live auction items, mouth-watering appetizers, fat beats, and some surprisingly sinful entertainment and performances. Our over 400 guests will gratify themselves with a night of arts and culture which showcases the talent of Ottawa’s arts community and also supports G101, a local, non-profit artist-run centre. Proceeds from the auction help Gallery 101 maintain its services to artists and the community. This event is supported and made possible by our local artists, sponsors, volunteers and friends. We’re hungry for attention, so please help us spread the word about this event and that Gallery 101 is proud be supporting the arts community in Ottawa for over 30 years.

For more information please contact:
GLENN CRAWFORD, Event Coordinator
email: 101Frames@G101.ca or P: 613.230.2799

Admission:

Tickets: $10, $15 at the door
Available at: G101 and After Stonewall, Collected Works,
Mags and Fags and Vertigo Records
BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT:
http://101framesgluttony.eventbrite.com

Holiday art shows!

2011-11-30T20:05:00.001-08:00

There will be three holiday group art shows having their openings tomorrow night...and I have a piece or pieces in all of them! (holy moly!) If one of these are happening near you, you should check it out! Admission is free for all of them. The variety of pieces are well-priced and make amazing Christmas gifts :D Maybe I will see you there?
Anyways, for December 1st (Tomorrow) here are the shows!

27th Annual Holiday Fundraising Art Sale at the Ottawa School of Art:

Three of my edition-ed digital prints will be for sale
35 George Street (In the Byward Market), Ottawa, Ontario
Opening: 5:00-8:00pm

Collectables, at the Ottawa Art Gallery Art Rental and Sales (Click image to enlarge)

I have 5 paintings for sale here.
2 Daly Avenue (Located in Arts Court), Ottawa
Opening 6:30- 9:00pm

The BEST of Orange Christmas Show:

A drypoint hand pulled print is for sale (of panda bears!)

233 Armstrong Street (In the Parkdale Market Area), Ottawa.
Opening: 6:00 - 10:00pm

Extra details and links to all my current and upcoming shows are also listed on the right banners of this blog.

"My Canvas"

2011-11-25T18:01:00.000-08:00

in-progress photo, graphite on mylar

I just found out my drawing entitled My Canvas was recently sold at the OSA Boutique in the Byward Market. A BIG thank-you to the individual who purchased it!!

Sketching

2011-11-18T09:18:00.001-08:00

Pencils

Lines of Thought...

2011-11-15T12:12:00.001-08:00

Pencil, graphite powder & fluid acrylic with gel medium.

still a work in progress...sigh

Lines in Progress - solo show promotion

2011-11-13T19:03:00.000-08:00

Here's the info on my solo show I mentioned. I will be showing my recent works completed through the City of Ottawa's Artist Studio Program. Hope to see you there!

Vernissage/Opening: Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 - 6 to 9 pm
View/buy art, have some food, or check out my studio next door!

Location: Stafford Studios ASP Gallery
Nepean Creative Arts Centre - Unit 1
35 Stafford Road, Bells Corners
Ottawa, Ontario

Working in the studio

2011-11-13T14:45:00.001-08:00

Since this Fall I have been working in a studio space offered by the City of Ottawa. I had applied through a jury process to use this artist studio for free earlier this year. Long story short, I got it!

This is a photo of my studio (at Stafford Studios), before it got really messy! It is pretty spacious and I have great neighbors (other professional artists have studios near by).

Anyways, I am over 2 months into my 5 month term and will try to keep a log of what I have been up to. Currently my big project is preparing for a solo show. Here are some quick shots of a drawing I am working on for it - at its different stages. You will have to see the final piece at the opening! (November 29th!)

Ottawa-Gatineau Printmakers Opening Night!

2011-11-10T23:06:00.000-08:00

Just got back from our anniversary exhibit. It was a fantastic turnout. The exhibit is up until the 20th if you want to check it out!

First exhibit this month! Printmakers Anniversary Show!

2011-11-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

The Ottawa-Gatineau Printmakers Connective is having their 1 year celebration at Orange Art Gallery (233 Armstrong Street, Ottawa, Ontario). On the 10th of November our group will be there showing a wide variety of hand-pulled prints. I hope you can come to the opening reception (6-10pm).
If not, the exhibit will be on display from November 9th to the 20th.

I got in the Citizen!

2011-10-14T10:28:00.001-07:00

Figureworks Show opens this week!

2011-09-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

I got into the annual Figureworks award show this year! I am happy to share that one of my pieces, "pause" is the one featured on their promotional card.
Figure works curates juried annual award shows in Ottawa, Canada. Both national and international artists participate. This year the show is taking place at Orange Gallery.

Event Date: September 29, 2011 - October 23, 2011

Event Time: 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Location: Orange Gallery 233 Armstrong Street, Parkdale Market, Ottawa

Link: http://orangeartgallery.ca/events.htm

The Vernissage is on Thursday, September 29th, 2011, from 6 - 10pm. Come visit and meet the artists!
This show will be up until October 23rd, 2011.

Summer Mosaic Opening!

2011-08-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

Just came back from the Ottawa Printmakers Collective's first public exhibit. Great work! Here are some shots:

Mine are the far left and right dry point prints in the above picture.

This show is up until September 6th at Britannia Gallery.

Arty Sundays at Exposure Gallery

2011-08-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

This Fall I will be running drop-in art classes! They will be on Sundays at Exposure Gallery for children aged 10-14, however I am okay with accepting younger or older students. Here are the details:

2:30 - 4:00pm
Drop-In classes are suited for children aged 10-14 years old. Each Sunday different fun and creative arts activities will be offered (materials included!). Space is limited so register early to put your child's name on our sign up list.

Sessions start September 18th, 2011.

Each class is $20 per child per session or save with a ticket for 6 visits for $100.
Exposure Gallery: 1255 Wellington Street West, Ottawa, Ontario. (Located on the second floor studio of Thyme & Again).

Register online on my website (in the Teaching section).

Summer Mosaic – 1st public art exhibit by the Ottawa Printmakers Collective!

2011-08-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Last year I became part of a new arts connective - the Ottawa Printmaker's Connective. We will be exhibiting a variety of original pulled prints at Ottawa’s Britannia Gallery - our first public exhibition as a group! Please come visit us at our opening, August 4th from 5-7pm.
Here is our promotional card! (Click image to enlarge)

Summer Class Session Starts Soon!

2011-06-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Registration for my children's arts camps is still open for the Summer session. Week long camps start as early as July 4th through into the end of August. Visit the teaching section of my website for full details.

Thanks! Maya

New Art Festival - That's a wrap!

2011-06-06T09:20:00.000-07:00

Just finished up the New art festival last night and the weather held up! I just want to give a BIG thank-you to everyone who came to see the artwork, those who made purchases, and my friends and family for helping me make it all happen!

The New Art Festival

2011-05-22T09:54:00.000-07:00

I will be exhibiting my art at #30 on the north pathway of the park! June 4-5, 10am - 5pm
Here is the info poster/invitation (click to enlarge)

Lakmé - Works in Progress

2011-05-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

I have been working a number of drawings/paintings for the New Art Festival coming up very soon (June 4-5th!). Here is a sample of one of the series I've been working on.... not too sure about it yet.
They were inspired by the opera "Lakmé" (the flower duet - look it up you will most likely recognize the tune instantly!)

What I used: Graphite, Prismacolour pencil, and watercolour. Surface: Vellum and Masi Paper. It is slightly translucent (hard to tell here) and I plan to place them into suspense frames (between two sheets of glass).

China town Remixed 2011 opens THIS Sunday!

2011-05-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

This year I got into China Town Remixed, where art, food and performances take place in Ottawa's China town! Exhibits are taking place in unexpected and diverse spaces, with original art appearing in restaurants, grocery stores, hair salons, opticians, laundromats, and more.

My artwork will be on display at Ju Xiang Yuan- 641 Somerset St. West: # 16 on the map (click to enlage)

I will be showing an interesting diptych painting which comments on the "Eastern" and "Western" relationship:)

Again, the opening is Sunday May 15th, from 2 pm – 5 pm (My piece will be up until June 15th, 2011)

I hope to see you there!!

My Orchid/ Asian Inspired Paintings

2011-04-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

My experimental project, here's an example:

"Something Different"

This was done on stretched canvas. I experimented with Golden's gel mediums, specifically their fiber paste and coarse molding paste. So far I like using these products. They add some nice texture to the pieces, which also create a decent tooth on the surface to catch colour pigments. I still need to work with the material to get more comfortable though. Anyways, this and 2 other pieces were displayed in the Orchid show. They each ended up involving acrylic paint, chalk pastels, india ink, AND watercolours :P

Orchidophilia!

2011-04-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

Hello! If you are looking for something to do this upcoming long weekend come check out the 30th Annual Orchid show at the Nepean Sportsplex. There will beautiful orchid displays and orchid vendors. Furthermore there will be a gallery of artwork. I have three paintings that will be on display and up for sale. And if you are a photographer it is a great opportunity to get some great shots! As photographers can bring their tripods Sunday from 9 -11am.

Here are the details:
Saturday, April 23rd: 12- 5pm
Sunday, April 24th: 9-5pm (picture takers with tripods welcome from 9-11am)

At the Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario.

Admission fees:
General: $10
Seniors: $ 8
Children: $8

I hope to see you there.

Recent interview with Metroland media

2011-03-31T20:13:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share this article where I have a brief interview about my participation in Lemon Jellow's "Camp" art show.
The online article can be read here: Art Interview

Drawings on Display at the Nepean Sportsplex

2011-03-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Last month I was asked if I could display my work at the Nepean Sportsplex. I am very happy for this opportunity and said yes!

Here is the display:

My works will be up from March 28th - April 18th. If curious, please take a visit.
Happy Spring!

I am teaching art classes this Spring!

2011-03-12T14:36:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in a previous post, I've been asked to teach for the City of Ottawa this year and I have 2 Adult classes lined up for the Spring ready for registration! The classes will be held at the Nepean Creative Arts Centre, 35 Stafford Road.

If you or someone you know are interested please sign up! Here are the details:

1. Drawing Introduction: registration # 635521
Tuesdays 7:00-9:30pm $163.50
April 19 - June 7
Learn simple tips that make a big difference in the way you see and draw. Observational skills are built while studying perspective, values, understanding mass, line, contour drawing, shading and more. Beginners and intermediates. Pencil and minimal colour medium.

2. Printmaking: registration # 645669
Thursdays 7:00-9:30pm $226.50
April 21 - June 9
Explore different printmaking techniques easily done at home! Monotype, relief prints, and their use in collage and mixed media work will be covered. A non-direct art form, unlike any drawn or painted mark. All levels welcome!

For registration and information about the Creative Arts Centre please visit:

http://www.ottawa.ca/residents/arts/courses_workshops/nepean_creative/index_en.html

Hope to see some friendly faces this Spring!

Campy art show this month!

2011-03-08T15:24:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,
I will be participating in a fun art exhibit this month: "Camp" Charlevoix. It's a fun "non-serious" art show (which I am all for!) Here is the promo card.(click to enlarge)

Opening is March 26th, 7pm. Come by if you can!

Monotype printmaking

2011-01-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

This weekend I got a great chance to use Ottawa's largest etching printing press. (Although I did not print any really big prints or any etchings I had fun getting used to the press!) This press is located in the print studio at the Nepean Creative Arts Centre - I will be teaching classes here in the Spring/Summer session, stayed tuned for more information in the coming months!

Anyways, thoroughly enjoyed the printmaking facilities - here's a couple prints I did: (Monotype using soy based inks)

New Artworks and they're up for sale!

2010-12-01T12:43:00.000-08:00

Hello!

I've been working on some new work in the area of children's illustration. I decided to experiment with different medias and this is what I've come up with!

This is done using graphite on Mylar, placed on a texture I made on wood board using gesso and acrylics. The colouring was done in Photoshop.

Also, as mentioned on the upcoming shows links to the side of this blog, I currently have works for sale at holiday art shows (three pieces at each location). The work above will be for sale at these events. Come to the exhibits if you want to see them in person! Here are the details:

26th Annual Holiday Fund-raising Art Sale
(2 locations):

1) Byward Market OSA Gallery: 35 George Street, Ottawa, ON
Show runs from: December 2 -19, 2010
Opening Reception: Thursday Decempber 2, 5pm - 8pm

2) Shenkman Arts Centre OSA Gallery: 245 Centrum Blvd. Orleans, ON
Show runs from: November 29 - December 18. 2010
Opening Reception: Sunday December 5, 2pm - 5pm

Artwork up for auction at Gallery 101 this Saturday Night!

2010-11-25T12:12:00.000-08:00

Saturday, December 4, 2010
240 Bank Street
Doors open at 7pm – 1am
Featuring: DJs The O’Malley’s and Jas Nasty
MC: Rob Clipperton
Tickets: $10 or $15 at the door
or at After Stonewall- 370 Bank Street, Collected Works – 1242 Wellington St. W., Mags & Fags – 254 Elgin

Mad about the arts: 101 Frames gets a little bit ‘wrath’ful
101 FRAMES, Gallery 101’s largest annual fundraiser, is thinking outside the frame with its 7-year plan to shake things up in downtown Ottawa. On Saturday, December 4th, 2010, Gallery 101, with title sponsor Knowledge Circle, will host this highly respected and anticipated event–the third of its seven years of THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS. Each year, we ask artists to interpret a different deadly sin. Last year’s event, PRIDE, followed year one’s LUST, and while we don’t want to get a swelled head, it was an outstanding success, with pride-worthy artworks, performances worth boasting about, uppity DJs spinning bold tunes, and a bar to brag about. This year, G101 invites artists to make art that engages with the most vicious sin in the bunch: WRATH. You wouldn’t like us when we’re angry, so please help us spread the word that Gallery 101 is proud to support the arts community in Ottawa for over 30 years.

This year, 101 FRAMES has invited local and regional artists to open up a can of whoop-@$$ by creating artwork with a central theme of WRATH for this year’s silent art auction, which is to be followed by a raucous dance party.

Other sinful features of the event will include door prizes to fight over, smoking hot appetizers, vicious beats, and some surprisingly sinful entertainment and performances. Our over 400 guests will gratify themselves with a night of arts and culture which showcases the talent of Ottawa’s arts community and also supports G101, a local, non-profit artist-run centre.

Proceeds from the auction help Gallery 101 maintain its services to artists and the community. This event is supported and made possible by our local artists, volunteers and friends.

Matte Painting Project - The progress

2010-09-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

Matte Painting: scene for the design document
My photo reference for the matte painting:

Changed it a bit in photoshop (got rid of the people, bus, changed the colours, etc):

Painting the foreground (in photoshop):

Finished matte painting:

Design Document: Characters

2010-09-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Illustrations: Mrs. Doasyouwouldbedoneby (Waterfairy character), Mr. Dragonfly (Narrator/Tom's moral guide).

A bit more about my adaptation and tone of the film: I would like to center this project around themes of fantasy, magic, Victorian England, and the golden rule...

Charles Kingsley's The Water babies ... my adaptation

2010-09-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

For class we had to create a Design Document. I decided to pitch a film adaptation of Charles Kingsley's "The Water Babies," a children's novel completed in 1863. The story is about a young chimney sweep named Tom. Tom lives a rather harsh life in the city under his abusive master Mr. Grimes. One day they receive a job to clean the chimneys of a large estate in the countryside. During this job Tom frightens a young girl and is chased outside of the house into the nearby forest. He stumbles and passes away from falling off a cliff into a stream. However, he has actually been turned into a "water babie." As a water babie, Tom goes through various adventures which have to do with good and moral conduct. In the end he makes a decision to do something that "he does not quite wish to do," earning a return to human form.

So that's the idea in brief. I will be making changes to the original plot, but my plan is to keep the original theme in tact, which I've interpreted as the Golden Rule. First thing we have to draw are the main characters. Here is my finished character drawing of Tom:

"Soundscape" Artist Statement

2010-08-26T08:14:00.000-07:00

Soundscape: a melange of musical and sometimes non-musical sounds. - Merriam-Webster Dictionary

This series of work is a study on how to communicate visual and musical concepts such as space, tension, movement,and emotion through figurative drawings. The larger figurative works in particular are meant to draw attention to those moments in time when listening is crucial, special, or perhaps emotionally difficult.

The overall goal is to create "listening" environment for the viewer. Although the pieces are technically "soundless," I hope that sound can be evoked from the imagery occupying the space - a soundless soundscape so to speak.

Maya

[My statement for the show at Blink Gallery, see previous posts for details]

Setting up for the show tomorrow

2010-08-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

A sneak peek at what to expect at my first Solo exhibit in Ottawa. (I was still setting up at this point)

Solo show this month!

2010-08-10T03:42:00.001-07:00

Title: Soundscape

Location: Blink Gallery (Header House in Major's Hill Park - Downtown, across from the National Art Gallery) Click on the promo card to see it enlarged with map.

Opening: August 26, 2010
Time: 6 pm - 9 pm

This show runs into the weekend.

I hope to see you there!

WaterCan Embassy Dinner

2010-04-20T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I wanted to let you know about a great fundraising event on Friday, May 7th - the annual Embassy Dinner hosted by WaterCan, in support of their projects in eastern Africa.

For those of you who have never attended, the Embassy Dinner is a great event where 600-700 people (including many dignitaries, business owners, NGO workers, and politicians), gather to taste culinary creations by 30+ embassies, participate in live and silent auctions, and get a chance to mingle and network, all while supporting a great cause.

This year I have donated a monotype print to the auction.

If you are thinking about attending but haven't bought your tickets yet, this is to let you know that you only have a little bit of time left - the tickets are almost sold out!!!

For tickets visit:
Watercan Embassy Dinner Tickets

Happy Chinese New Year!

2010-02-14T06:57:00.000-08:00

For the third year I am participating in the International print exhibit hosted by Proof Studio Gallery in Toronto. Each year they have a call out for print makers to celebrate the next zodiac sign and Chinese New year. This year, it is the year of the tiger:

It is a traveling exhibit. Currently I am only aware of the main show in Toronto and participating artists from Ottawa are also represented at the Ottawa School of Art in the Byward Market. Prints are for sale.

Happy New Year:)

Promo

2009-11-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

Two invitationals to shows that I am participating in. Thought I would share them. For more information, please visit the links on the right side.

Gallery 101's annual 101 frames - deadly sins show. This year the theme is PRIDE.
I have one artwork up for silent auction (December 5th).

Holiday Fund-raising Art Sale in the Byward Market and the Shenkman Arts Centre in Orleans:

I have sold a piece so far at the OSA in the Byward and also at the Shenkman Arts Centre. Thank-you very much to those who bought my artwork! It really means a lot to me.

Replacement pieces are on the walls (3 artworks available for sale at each location), and many amazing pieces by local artists. If you can, pay us a visit!

November - art packed

2009-11-22T17:16:00.000-08:00

Well, this month has been exciting in the arts community in Ottawa. I have been back in the capital for almost 3 months now and happy to have seen and participated in exhibitions, here are the highlights thus far.

Last weekend, Ottawa's 2nd Timeraiser was held at the National Art Gallery of Canada. An event which supports local volunteer organizations and artists simultaneously. (To backtrack a bit, earlier this year I had applied to their jury to be a participating artist and was chosen.) I thoroughly enjoyed the event. The atmosphere was quite the mix: music videos on a big screen, music blasting from speakers, islands of walls displaying artworks, many booths with great volunteering representatives, artists, organizers, guests, press, and not to mention it was a catered event;)

I must mention that just two days before Timeraiser my friend and local artist opened a beautiful show at the Lee Matasi Gallery called "Colourgraph" - a print making exhibit. The show runs until Nov 24th.

In the next couple weeks I will be participationg in various art fund raising events:

Holiday Art Sale at the Ottawa school of Art in the Bytown Market and at the Shenkman Centre for the Arts in Orleans (Four four time and Three four time will be up for sale)
SKETCH at Saw Gallery
101 Frames "Pride" at Gallery101.

For more information, please refer to the links on the right.

In terms of new art making, I have recently finished a small series of watercolours - again musically inspired. Abtract in a sense, but most are grounded in some notational reference. I finished these works in Ottawa. It is an adjustment from having a studio space (left) to working in the apartment. Subsiquently my "studio" consists of a yoga mat from the dollar store next to a newspapered covered-carpeted section of the living room floor (parts of my computer desk fit into this master scheme as well). In the end I am happy with the results, here are some samples: (I will post the rest on my website.)

The Breath Mark, 2009
The comma refers to singers to take a breath or to make a slight pause.

Piano Pedals, 2009
Ever notice how cool the release sustain pedal symbol is?

Timeraiser!

2009-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

This year I was picked to be a participating artist for Ottawa's 2nd Timeraiser!

For more information please read/forward the information below:

(Note: Due to the ongoing labour dispute at the Canadian War Museum, the 2nd Ottawa Timeraiser will now take place at the National Gallery of Canada, in the Great Hall.)

2nd Ottawa Timeraiser

Saturday November 14th

Doors open at 7:00pm

at the National Gallery of Canada, Great Hall

Buy tickets now!

To view a short video about how the Timeraiser works, check out this You Tube video.

You can also get more information by joining the Timeraiser Facebook Fan Page and have your Facebook friends join too- www.facebook.com/timeraiser.

Timeraiser 101
"We know that getting involved in the community isn't always easy, so we've made it simple for you to find relevant and meaningful volunteer opportunities that fit your busy lifestyle.

The Timeraiser is part volunteer fair, part silent art auction and part night on the town. Throughout the evening meet with different agencies and match your skills to their needs. Once you have made your matches, you are eligible to bid on artwork. The big twist is rather than bid money, you bid volunteer hours. Once the auction is over we announce the hours raised and then celebrate our contribution to the community.

It is our hope that the evening is the beginning of a life-long journey for you and your friends. A journey that plants the seed to make your civic footprint - a contribution of your time and money to causes that are important to you - as big as possible."

At Timeraiser.ca, you can:
1. Preview agencies and search through volunteer opportunities
2. Preview all the cool artwork from emerging artists
3. Invite your friends and colleagues to attend
4. Get additional information about the Timeraiser

To buy tickets go to http://www.timeraiser.ca

Visit our FAQs if you have any more questions.

Contact Information
If you have any questions about the Timeraiser please email jgrebel@timeraiser.ca or 1 (800) 263-1178 x232.

Current Show

2009-09-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Somebodies

Independent Residency Program Exhibition

(September 9th – 20th)

Toronto School of Art presents, Somebodies, a group exhibition featuring works by artists participating in the school’s Independent Residency Program. Participants share an interest in the human body in all it’s aspects from the visceral, to the poetic, from the social to the metaphorical and even the rhythmic. The body is depicted in some work, while merely implied in others. The pieces often acknowledge how encounters with artwork occur in a physical, bodily way as much as a visual way. The range of media includes drawing, painting, print making, collage and assemblage.

The Independent Residency Program is a 13 week self-directed summer residency program at the Toronto School of Art. The program is designed for practicing professional artists who have completed their formal training. Participants have access to a semi-private studio with five other artists, group meetings, critiques, a workshop and an artist talk. This year’s participating faculty artists were Gretchen Sankey, Luke Painter and the guest artist was Ginette Legaré . Meetings with program co-coordinator Lyla Rye included visits with Mary Sue Rankin, Edward Day Gallery; David Liss, MOCCA; and visits to Olga Korper Gallery, Peak Gallery and Christopher Cutts Gallery.

LISTEN exhibit: That's a wrap ... for now.

2009-08-19T11:43:00.000-07:00

It seems my solo show went without any troubles.

Thank-you to friends and family that came. Here are some pictures I took the night before the show opened (click to enlarge). Also, a thanks to unfamiliar faces that visited (although I have a suspicion the free food and drinks may have contributed to this select crowd...)

Before I sign out, I want to mention that a portion of the works in the "LISTEN" show will be presented at a group show at Launch Projects:

Title: "Somebodies" (title created by yours truly...there was a vote and apparently mine was picked)
When: September 9th - 20th
Opening Reception: September 12, 2-5 pm
Location: 410 Adalaide St. W (northwest corner of Spadina and Adalaide St, beside Century Graphics.)

LISTEN

2009-07-09T17:25:00.001-07:00

2009 International Juried Print Exhibition

2009-07-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

Opening Night:
July 9, 2009, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Free to the public – Everyone welcome!

Works will be on display from:
July 9 – August 30, 2009

OSA, Orléans Campus Gallery, Shenkman Arts Centre: 245 Centrum Blvd, Ottawa, Ontario

-----------

(One of my woodcut prints got into this show)

Pictures from the show

2009-06-02T17:15:00.000-07:00

I just came back from the student art show/open house at Artbarn School. There was a good mix of artwork from watercolour to encaustic work. So, if you are interested in taking some art lessons in Toronto, this is a nice place to start. They are very friendly!

I submitted a quick drawing I did in one of their drop-in life drawing classes.
Here are some pictures:

Mine is the bottom one in the light brown frame:

Photos of other artist's work:

Website facelift

2009-05-31T20:30:00.001-07:00

Fyi, my website has changed its look a bit. Hope you like:)

Motivation, confidence...it's a struggle on all possible aspects

2009-05-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

Title speaks for itself...rough week to say the least. critiques, critiques, critiques....sigh
This is what I've accomplished so far... (click photo to get a larger picture)
I needed a break from the above drawing so I started on the other one:

Then I needed a break from that and thus, a new drawing starts.

It all still needs a lot of work. To be continued....

Progress...

2009-05-12T20:43:00.001-07:00

Tone done on legs!....still needs detailing but I will get to that once I finish with the rest.

prep work

2009-05-10T23:25:00.001-07:00

"Cornered" each image is about 3 x 5 feet.

Working title: Figurative Imagery Evoking Sound

2009-05-10T23:19:00.000-07:00

Here's some ideas I have been working on so far:

Title: Listen
Drawing attention to those moments when listening is crucial, heart breaking, or even euphoric...I wish to draw attention to these instances. Those moments in time when we open our ears.

Execution/materials: life size graphite drawings on Mylar

Work in detail:
1) To the ground: woman laying horizontally, ear to the floor
2) Cornered: woman huddled in corner, head bowed with hands over her ears
3) Distance: Man/Woman listening intently on a telephone

Notes/thoughts:
- abstract visual component?
- colour introduced on select portions of the drawings?
- projected light/image and/or project abstract video (colour)

Pictures from cell phone

2009-05-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some photographs of the studio I'll be using during the next few months.

West wall: with cute easel East Wall: (forgot this wall in the original post)

South wall: Natural light! North wall:

Artist sink (why "artist" b/c it's gross -haha)

(Sorry about the bad photo quality - I forgot my camera on move day, so I used my camera phone - but you get the idea. I got some nice natural lighting. The ceiling fans and open windows made for a nice breeze t00!)

Artist Residency!

2009-04-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Update: I've been accepted into a Independent Summer Artist Residency program in Toronto.

As for what I am doing exactly? I still don't really know. I will be moving my limited art junk into my downtown studio at the end of this week. So hopefully I can post some pictures soon. One of my goals is to start using this blog again to hash out ideas and project proposals. Currently I'm thinking:

life size 2d art work on mylar with projected abstract animation.....
lumia inspired video project
life size drawings of individuals, interconnected in scroll fashion
visual/music scroll....

Who knows?!

Updates

2009-03-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

International Ox print exhibit update:

The ox print exhibit has traveled to Ottawa. Apparently it is to be shown at the Ontario College of Art and Design this month...although no information on exact dates/locations have been published.

The next stop will be at the Muskoka Place Gallery (in Port Carling) if anyone is in the neighborhood in April check it out! For more information visit: http://www.muskokaplace.ca/

Website Updates:

Nothing new on the website other than a few more works in the Life Drawing section, take a peek if your not offended by naked people (they're rough sketches - it's OK ;)

Website updating....

2009-02-09T09:28:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

I am slowly adding new content to the "Visuals" section of my website, if interested check it out!

Comments welcome!

Current Video Work

2008-08-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post I have been working on a collaborative mockumentary film. It is entitled Bus Rider in which I am co-directing/writing with Andrew H = another Hum & Haw Pictures production, just like our previous short video Nat and Noah.

There is a dedicated website for this movie: busridermovie.com OR click link on your right - if you are interested in finding out more!

Homage to Escher

2008-05-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of the table I "spruced" up. In case you didn't notice I used one of escher's works as the design.

Back in NB

2008-05-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'm back home in New Brunwick. Hopefully i'll land the artist residency here this summer -rather unlikely as I'm far from being an established artist, but we'll see.
So my current projects for the spring/summer include:

Composing the soundtrack for a collaborative mockumentary film, that has been in the works for a while back in Ottawa (more on this later)
Recycling old shirts/fabrics into a quilt...I don't know why but I want to see if I can make a quilt...
Spruce up an old table I found in my closet (as in paint it!)
Possibly work as an artist resident (crosses fingers)

Musical notation art pieces all Sold! Thank-you!

2008-04-24T22:00:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the opening of the second international miniature print exhibit at the main gallery at OSA. It was an excellent show, and I want to congratulate my friends who were in it for their great work. I recommend everyone to go see this exhibit while it is still up! (35 George St. Ottawa, ON.)

meanwhile...after stepping out of the gallery...

I walked into the boutique area and was so surprised that all of my artworks that were on display were sold, one in fact was sold before my eyes by a faculty member from University of Regina. (Thank-you!)

I would like to say thanks to those who purchased my musically influenced artworks. As a student artist it means a lot.

OSA Boutique

I will be replacing the sold pieces at the boutique so if anyone is interested please drop by and take a look. As well as the brilliant artwork from all the artists represented at the OSA art boutique.

Again, many thanks.

Vernissage Pictures

2008-04-19T20:50:00.000-07:00

Here are two pictures to give you an idea of the gallery space my artwork was in. But of course, it looks better when viewed in person (hint hint!)

View from outside the gallery:

Visitor looking at my drawings:

Thanks for coming to the Show

2008-04-18T06:55:00.000-07:00

Thank-you to everyone who attended the opening of the scholarship exhibit last night. We (being the three featured artists: Geraldine Petit-Gras, Natalie Roy, and Myself) appreciated the support and lovely comments. A Special thanks for those who stayed for the entire evening!

Thank-you again! Posted pictures will soon follow!

For those of you who could not attend, the exhibit is on until the 30th of April, so come see if you get the chance. It is at the Lee Matasi Gallery, 35 George Street, Ottawa, ON.

Website is up

2008-04-14T22:07:00.001-07:00

Hello All,

My website: maya-art.ca
Is finally more or less up and running.