2022-17 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover      

And just like that!!

Are you always as surprised as I am when, just overnight, it's time to get out the sweaters and gloves? It does happen every year, but I'm never ready. So I brave the new colder weather while still wearing sandals. I'll bet you do too. If I had to choose my favourite season it would be fall. I mean...look at all that orange! It's not a chance thing that orange has always been my number one choice.

Here's my story. My Grandma was an immigrant from Finland almost 100 years ago. She came over on a boat with 2 young daughters to meet her husband in Northern Ontario. She had a life filled with heartache and hardship but still managed to build a life in the freedom of Canada. One thing you may not know about Finns is that we are very clean. (We invented the sauna) She liked to repaint often. I was her chosen helper. She'd buy unopened bargain bin cans of paint..colour unseen. One year the colour was ORANGE. Everything was painted ORANGE that year. From the wood box, to the rocking chair, to the stairs in her house. It's been my favourite ever since.

Back to the art...a few weeks ago I was in the fabulous Artwalk in the Square outdoor art fair. The weather was perfect and the crowds were so enthusiastic . I had many insightful conversations with new art lovers and was so appreciative thatDouglas, Shelli, Evelyn, Rob and family, Amanda, Gabriela , and Linsay, among others, who came out to see the new work I have been creating. Also , I couldn't have done it without the help of my personal peach (AKA Ron Williams) my BFF Dorothy and my wonderful daughter Ingrie. Congratulations to Janie. She was the winner of my free print draw of the WE. It was lovely to connect with her. I think she might just be as zany as me.

I love it when I receive art news from you. Angela has a great fondness for many creatives, but one she loves is the Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara. You might recognize his iconic character of a little girl who at first appearance is quite sweet and then you see her devilish sparkle. I can certainly relate to her vibe. You may think I'm sweet but most would tell you I'm definitely not. YOSHITOMO NARA The Works

https://www.yoshitomonara.org › ...

I'd love to hear who your favourite artist is and why.

In my studio I am creating some really big canvases..about 5 ft x 6 ft. while I still have these walls. The canvas is tacked onto the wall and I'm just going for it. My objective is 'Go big or go home' while we still have this space. End of Jan 2023 is the new end of lease date. Email for a studio visit please.

I attach some photos of my new large canvas, 5x6 ft. called 'Love You Forever'. It's got a great story behind it which didn't evolve until after the painting was finished.

As ever, I thank you so much for your attention and support.

Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY HOME

2022-16 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover    

Play Ball!!!!

Hope you are enjoying this cooler weather as much as I am. When I sent out the previous newsletter, I confess I was not the gal you've come to know as enthusiastic and energetic. Both my knees were giving me grief. I apologize for maybe being a little cranky. Now I can truly sympathize with anyone who suffers from chronic pain. However, I am on the mend and can happily say that I can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

It was so nice to see so many smiling faces last WE at the art show at PegGraham's lovely home. We already have started on plans for next year. Several of my Walking the Dog paintings found new homes. If you would like a commission, I'd be happy to discuss a personal one just for you or a friend.

This WE is going to be an exciting time at theArtwalk in the Squareat shops at Don Mills, 1090 Don Mills Rd. Over 100 talented artists Friday to Sunday are ready to greet you with a variety of art. The weather promises to cooperate, so please come out to support local art. My booth number is 31, very close to last year's location. I've been working on some new pieces of course...so many ideas, so little time.

You may know that I love the northern landscape. I don't have a lot of landscapes in my work, but last year I was so inspired by the rugged shores of Lake Superior at Ney's Provincial Park that I started a diptych (2 paintings end to end). It has taken a whole year to complete but I think I have the essence of what I was feeling from those ancient stones. Have you ever had the urge to lay right on the rocks to absorb their energy? That is what I did that day last August. Communing with prehistoric spirits. It was one of those sacred moments.

I'm attaching the photos of Neys 1 and Neys 2, but you really have to see them in the flesh to appreciate their essence. I do hope you can come to visit them this WE.

Please let me know what adventures you've had this summer. It's been ages and I'm looking forward to connecting with you soon.

Rock on,

Gail


YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-15 Living Artfully with Gail

Hello Dear Art Lover     

Were you one of the Cool Kids?

At this time of year, I always think of those days just before the new school year starts. I remember the excitement of a new beginning and the hope that this year would be different. So I'll make a confession right here that I was not one of the cool kids. School was a minefield and looking back, I can see that I was trying to fly under the radar. But secretly wanting to be noticed. Hanging out in the art room, that place where the cool kids wouldn't be caught dead, was a haven. It became the place where I did stand out.

How about you? Were you one of the cool kids? Did you hide out in the middle zone hoping to be ignored, not called upon in class, not exposing your lack or abundance of knowledge, just trying to get along?

Things have changed of course and now I'm out there exhibiting my eccentric curiosity, my particular outlook on life with my art and rejoicing when someone gets my viewpoint, my angle on the connections of our humanity.

Unfortunately summer fun is over, but I have a great line up to start this new fall season.
There are 2 art shows you can come to see in Sept. The first is in the welcoming home of Peg Graham. She turns her home into an art gallery fundraiser with a variety of artists and artisans. It's a two day event and always a fun time. I hope you can make it. She's near Kingston Rd and Warden. The dates are Sat Sept 10 and Sun Sept 11, 11am to 6 pm. I've attached the flyer.

Next up is the second Artist Network outdoor show for me this year at the Shops at Don Mills, Lawrence and Don Mills. Over 100 artists will be showcasing their unique styles. I will have some new works in this show. Please pray for sunshine. www.artwalk.square for more details. Fri, Sept 16,3-8pm, Sat, Sept 17, 10-7pm, Sun, Sept 18, 11-5pm.

SPOILER ALERT....GIFTS FOR THE SOULis returning on Sat Nov 26, so please mark your calendar now for this popular event.

To start the new year off, the WINNER of this month's free print is Marianna. Congratulations. I'll be sending you an email to request your address.

This summer, I had the privilege of sharing my love of the great north with my grandsons as they discovered swimming in Lake Superior, hunting for amethyst, and fishing. (Fox caught his first fish this year)
And sauna too, of course. I hope your summer had some once in a lifetime experiences too.

I hope you noticed my new name for this newsletter.

Thanks so much for your ongoing support. It means a lot.

Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2022-10 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

Yes I did let them out!

CONGRATULATIONS to SIOBHAN MCARDLE !! You are this month's winner of a free print.

Are you as anxious as I am to feel some warmer weather? We say it every year, but I think because we've all been through an unprecedented experience that it feels more acute. We just want to get on with it.

Have you ever tried an audio art of noticing activity? Sit in a favourite place, outside or in your home, and just notice the sounds around you. Closing your eyes helps to block out the visual and focuses concentration on the audio. Within seconds you will feel yourself relaxing and tuning in to the ambient sounds around you. You'll be able to pick out the individual bird songs (if your'e outside) or the slap of a jogger's feet. Inside, perhaps it will be the hum of your refrigerator. In either case, I'd recommend it. I feel my heart rate going down just writing about it here.

I am very excited to announce the release of my new series, 'Walking the Dog' These charming 12 x 12 original acrylic paintings of 'Walkies with...(you fill in the blank)’ can be had for the discount price of only $200.00 (price after Mon. May 9 is $250.00) This low price is for my special supporters who follow along with me via this newsletter. It's been such fun to create these little vignettes. I've been stalking dog walkers for a while and taking surreptitious photos. Such fun! As you can see, the owners' faces have been masked for privacy. All you need to do is reply to this email and I'll arrange delivery. They are all ready to hang on the wall and would be an ideal Mothers' Day gift. Shipping not included.

I'm adding one of the 'Dog's to remind you of how adorable these are. I'll also do a commission if you'd like. You choose the dog shape and the main colour.

This month is the start of in person, off line, actual, real life with real people, art shows. You might want to mask still and not hug..your choice, but at least we'll be able to talk in person. I've been super busy creating new work. Some of it will be at the Central Connection 2022 Art Show, Sat.May 28, 3-6pm and Sun May 29, 12-5pm at Wtihrow Park Clubhouse Gallery at 725 Logan ave. This gallery is right in the park and very close to all the delightful restaurants and shops near Danforth and Pape. Please come down and say hello.
See the attached poster.

I'm also very happy to let you know that I have been accepted into the Riverdale Art walk in June. Please put me in your calendar for Sat June 18-Sun June 19 in Jimmie Simpson park.

More good news... we have yet another extension on our studio. End date is Aug 2022. Please pray for another one.

If your'e an Instagrammer, you could join me on Thursdays at 1pm where I'm doing IG Lives. A little chat, a little art, a little inspiration. Currently I'm using Rob Walker's book 'The Art of Noticing' to spark some joy into everyday life. Notice what you notice is my mantra, either visually or auditorally.

What have you done to spark your creativity recently? Please send me some suggestions or even better, a photo.

This past week, I've been on a bender. When I was a kid, I was obsessed with doing profiles so I thought I'd give in to the call and started a new series. There are two of them below. If you can think of a title for this series, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks for all your encouragement and support. It means so much.


Rock on,

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2021-26 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

Going Out For Business

Greetings from the other side of an art show. How enjoyable it was to spend the whole WE talking about art and meeting so many interested art lovers. Thank goodness everyone has an opinion. Whether they like it or not. There's always so much to learn, not only about others but about oneself as well. I believe that everything in my life informs my expression in my art, but had never thought about how my years of being a radiation therapist and looking at scans and xrays impacts the creation of the many layers and shapes that find their way onto my canvases.

Often I have struggled to find words to describe the kind of art I do. One visitor offered me the term 'mentally divergent'. That does indeed express pretty accurately what I'm about. I do see things that some people just don't. Call me crazy, but I accept the term.

Thanks to everyone who dropped into Booth 19 at Art Walk Square. The weather was perfect all WE and I had time to meet new friends and see new art myself. My prints were debuted and quite a few found homes as well as other works.

Each day of the show, I held a 'free print draw' I am so happy that my art has found it's way to

Shazrati, the FRIDAY WINNER,
Gail, the SATURDAY WINNER,
Saara the SUNDAY WINNER.

You have seen my art change over the years and I am now ready to let some go at BARGAIN prices.
Because you read my newsletter, you get first dibs. I'll attach a few images here, but if you go to my website gailwilliamsartist.com, you can see more. To start off, I'm offering the FACES collection at $100.00 per painting except for 'Three Faces of Eve'. All of theCONTEMPALTIONS'are also $100. 'GHOST'series are $500. (only 2 left)

I'm attaching a few of my loved ones here, but there are more available.

Or, MAKE ME AN OFFER...let me know if the one you've had your eye on, is up for grabs.

My friend Michele is a member of the Woodlawn Pottery Studio. They are having a driveway sale on Sun Oct 3, 11-4 at 157 Hillsdale Ave E. You might have seen some of the members' wonderful work at the Artscape shows in the past. If you love pottery, like I do, drop by early to get the best selection.

A lot of people are fascinated in the unique process I use to start my paintings. Therefore, I have decided it's time to start teaching. Class size will be limited to 4 people. I will supply everything you need. Please let me know if you would like to be put on the wait list as the first class is already full.
Come join the fun and let your inner child out again.

PRIVATE STUDIO TOURS AVAILABLE

CUSTOM PAYMENTS PLANS


YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

ROCK ON,

Gail

2021-25 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover    

I'm So Excited !!!

Hope this finds you well.

This last quarter of the year has blasted me right back into the biz and I can hardly wait til Friday. It's been too many years to remember the last time I was in an outdoor Riverdale Artwalk and too long to think about how long this lockdown has slowed things for the artists who love to interact with people. That would be me BTW. There are over 50 fabulously talented artists champing at the bit to share their joy with you.

My booth is number 19 (my lucky day) on Aggie Hogg Gardens. See the map for location. You'll be able to see 'Don't Look Now' in the flesh plus a selection of works that haven't had an airing yet. I'm also showing some new work that hasn't even made the website. As well, one of my SISU paintings will be in the 'I Gave Art' giveaway AND I'm doing a daily free draw AND I'm offering you an additional10% discount on any purchase. The secret password is ROCK ON.

As well, I'll have some of my new exquisite print collection for sale.

Thank you so much for all the support you've given me and for introducing your friends to me. The weather promises to cooperate too. artwalksquare.ca at Shops at Don Mills, 1090 Don Mills Rd.

Friday, Sept 17, 3-8
Saturday, Sept 18, 10-7
Sunday, Sept 19, 11-5

See you at the party! You can visit my website any time and also ask for a studio visit. My studio is near River St and Dundas E. I practise safe studio tours at your convenience.

ROCK ON

Gail

YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2021-24 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

Happy New Year

Happy New Year may seem a bit out of place today, but actually don't you feel it in the air? The first crisp days of September have always felt more like a new beginning for me than the first day of January. School would start after such a long time off and we'd get to see the old gang again. This September is particularly poignant with most of us so anxious to get back to some sort of normality.

This year, I was again inParadise...aka...Thunder Bay. As usual, it was family time. Lots of hiking, eating, sauna, eating, scrabble, eating, swimming, eating, bocce, eating, dancing, eating, kayaking, eating. Of course it was topped off with lots of laughter. I sincerely hope you did those things you especially enjoy.

Get ready to jump back into the party circuit. You are cordially invited to join me for Art walk in the Square at Shops at Don Mills. (Don Mills and Lawrence) I can't wait to be able to see you again and get caught up. It has been too long. I really do hope you can make it. As a thank you for being part of my support system, I would like to offer you the gift of a discount. I will give you 10% off your purchase during the show. That could be a whopping $250.00. The password is 'ROCK ON'

Friday, Sept 17 3pm - 8pm
Saturday, Sept 18 10am - 7pm
Sunday, Sept 19 11am - 5pm

SEE YOU THERE !! Here's the link to the show.. Art Walk in the Square: https://bit.ly/3CamAN5

ROCK ON,

Gail


YOUR HOME + YOUR STYLE + MY ART

2020-20 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover          

You Raise Me Up

Already another week has rolled around! Yesterday it was as if summer was back..30 degrees here in Toronto, which I can handle as the night cools. In the heat waves of July, I'm a total puddle..a bitchy one at that. How about you? Do you revel in the heat? 

This week I was fortunate to be able to host a distanced dinner party on my deck with good friends. This particular group, the Paint Chicks, go back quite a few years and I usually have a summer solstice in June out there. But you know what happened. So we had a smaller group and thankfully the weather cooperated. We reminisced about the first trip we took to France together and all the good times shared at the cottage. It started me thinking that good friends are what keep me going. They've helped me in countless ways. Check out #JoshGroban #YouRaiseMeUp #Vault to see his moving youtube of the song.

As well, I am surrounded with helpers on many levels. My niece Lise, an accomplished audio creator, helps me with my website and many other techie issues. She just updated my website and I had a lot of catching up to do. There's a new 'About' page too. I was almost cross eyed by the time I finished sending her all the new art. She might have been too.

This week I received two interesting emails. Mira suggested I look into Mandalas on the art-is-fun.com site. Mandalas are so meditative. Bev sent me a fascinating video from Facebook that will amaze you I'm sure. 
https://www.facebook.com/melrobbins/videos/322326368877763/?vh=e&extid=8SHnTx06NR5JBfBc&d=n


I'm including the ad for the Art Walk in the Square #artwalksquare.ca.so you can visit  my virtual booth and the other 99 artists. Lots of choice and you can do it from the comfort of home. Although nothing beats a real hug. Also there is a photo of the recent painting 'A Gathering of Friends', 40 x 30 . We can always arrange a distanced private viewing any time. Hope you like what you see.

Til next week,

YOUR HOME     YOUR STYLE     MY ART

ROCK ON,

Gail

2020-19 Living Artfully

Hello Dear Art Lover 

I get by with a little help from my friends

Here we are again! Back at it. How has your summer been? Besides HOT...at least that's how it was for quite a few weeks here in Toronto. Fall is my favourite season. Not only because it's cooler, but I love all those gorgeous fall colours..the oranges, the reds and the glorious yellows. I hope you had some time to enjoy a swim in a lake and take walks to enjoy nature. 

This will definitely be the summer to remember. Perhaps you've been reaching out to long lost friends and relatives, making the connections that were previously procrastinated on with the excuse of 'too busy'. It is  poignant to see families walking together, playing in the parks and cycling along.
My heart broke to hear of friends losing loved ones and the tragic condition of our senior's residences. Let's hope we learn some lessons from this unexpected turn of events.

My time was spent connecting with friends and family in a different way  and also by keeping up with the painting and the business of art. I've taken a few courses in online marketing and painting technique. I haven't decided what will be the focus on future Facebook live videos, and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed doing them.

I have entered the upcoming ArtWalk in the Square online gallery show starting Sept 25- Oct 9.
Check out artwalksquare.ca . 100 artists with 2000 pieces of art. Something for everyone.

My sister , Bev sent me a link to a fun 'painting' video. My advice is to not try this at home 
[lol] I can just see I would have paint everywhere especially on myself.

https://www.facebook.com/johnnonnyofficial/videos/1974823056158577/?vh=e&extid=SDTeS5nfFUyBixnL&d=n

I love to discover all sorts of art making ideas, so please send  me some.

I'm attaching two recent paintings.Can you guess which is which? One is 30 x 24, acrylic on paper, entitled ' No, You Can't Come In!'. The other is ' The Eyes of the World', is 30 x 24, acrylic on canvas. Both will be in the ArtWalk in the Square online show. I hope you take the time to visit my virtual booth. It would be so lovely to visit in person. If you want a private screening please get in touch.

Til next week,

YOUR HOME     YOUR STYLE     MY ART

ROCK ON,

Gail