On my Easel: Part One

Travel Memories in 5 Works in Progress

I currently have five paintings in various stages of progress. Creating my artwork takes time, especially since I also have a freelance graphic design career. Sometimes it can take a while to return to my painting. I’m grateful for both of these paths—making things is truly what they call my soul’s work.

Anyway, I’d love to show you these five pieces that are in the works.

ONE & TWO
Two tondos from Rustic Burl. Every painting I create on these round wood panels sells quickly, making this company my lucky charm. I love painting on them as well. 

The work-in-progress I’m holding is an image I’ve wanted to paint ever since I took the photo in 2022. We were enjoying a delicious dinner on the patio of Drunken Dumpling in Valletta, Malta, when I spotted a woman chain-smoking and shouting to her neighbours, including a guy walking his dog down the street. It was in Maltese, so I had no idea what she was saying. She was hanging out of her balcony for our whole meal. I found her fascinating and hilarious—she seemed like the neighbourhood watch. I love being a fly on the wall, observing the lives of others wherever I go. The painting isn’t quite finished yet; it’s about 80% complete.

The other tondo depicts an area of the Makishi Public Market in Naha. We returned from Japan nearly a month ago, and this place in Okinawa felt magical. The market is bustling with stalls, shops, restaurants, and bars. Ryan and I had an incredible time exploring it. I've just started this painting, having completed only two sessions so far; now it's time to focus on the details.

THREE
The next painting I'd like to share is in what I affectionately refer to as the "ugly duckling" phase. I just started it. It is also set in that Naha Market. It captures a quintessentially Japanese scene, adorned with hanging lanterns. The blue, white, and red lanterns are Orion lanterns, a craft beer from Okinawa. I’ve been on the hunt for Orion beer in Toronto!

I have always had a fondness for lanterns. Their captivating and whimsical glow can transform any scene into something beautiful. Sigh. 

FOUR
The fourth painting is so close to completion! I just need to add a few tiny details and finish the sides, as I find that extending the image adds a bit of depth.

Panama was our first trip after the pandemic started, back in late February to March 2022. We’re considering going back next year. I recently looked up this bar on Google Maps and found out it’s permanently closed. 

I still remember that night and the cocktail I had. The bartender watched me as I took my first sip, and when I smiled and gave him a thumbs up, I could see how much he cared about his craft. It was clear he loved providing that little bit of happiness that a delicious cocktail can bring.

FIVE
This brings me to the last work-in-progress on my easel (or one of my easels)—Shaker's Club, a spot from my home in Toronto. It's another piece that is so close to completion.

I've noticed a trend where restaurants and bars retain some of the decor from their predecessors, adding a retro charm. I love this place for its interesting seating and vibrant atmosphere—not to mention the delicious food!

Restaurants and bars are the lifeblood of a city. Despite living in Toronto for 23 years, I've never been up the CN Tower. It's the small businesses that truly form the heartbeat of any urban center. I wish our governments would recognize the importance of small businesses and provide support for the issues they face. Sadly, I’ve lost three of my local hangouts just this past year.

In the past couple of years, my subject matter has shifted. I've found myself gravitating toward human-made places rather than natural landscapes—though I certainly plan to return to painting nature in the future. For an artist, a change in subject matter is completely normal. Before focusing on my nature landscapes, I painted abstract works.

Perhaps it’s because I once wanted to be an interior designer and still have a love for decor. I’m not sure, but the places we frequent are truly special. They embody the time, effort, and passion of their creators. These spaces foster connections, serving as venues where we bring friends or meet new ones.

I love painting colour and light, but when I depict these scenes, I’m also capturing memories—slices of history that may be here one day and gone the next. Through my art, I've come to appreciate how quickly life can change and how essential it is to cherish the moments we have.

As I continue this journey of exploration in my work, I’m excited about what lies ahead. I’d love to hear what places inspire your creativity in the comments! If any of my pieces resonate with you and you’re interested in collecting my art, consider subscribing for updates on new works and exhibitions. Thank you for being part of this journey!