Alysha Rocca at the Akin Vitrine Gallery
Alysha Rocca’s exhibition, An Extension of Myself at the Akin Vitrine
Read MoreMade In Toronto - Highlighting Local Artists and Makers: Michelle Lee and Heidi Keyes
The words “Made In Toronto: Highlighting Local Artists and Makers” on a black banner at bottom and two cropped details of the two artists work in this blog post.
Welcome to the final edition of Akin’s Winter Makers Highlight series! If you still have anyone left on your holiday shopping list, then look no further - we’ve got you covered. We’re excited to introduce you to Akin Dupont member Michelle Lee and Akin Yonge-St Clair member Heidi Keyes. They’ve got lots of exciting goodies available for purchase online and in person. Read on to find out more!
Michelle Lee
Michelle Lee is a Toronto-based visual artist creating works that are small and light enough to carry with you under any circumstance! Humorously, she conceptualized 'pocket works for the apocalypse', an ongoing series of paintings on hand built ceramics. The images she creates are dreamlike interpretations of places and people; each alludes to a bigger story, while exploring subtle moments of relation and transformation. The handheld size and wearable form offers a tangible connection to the body. Michelle’s studio practice is balanced by her work leading art and nature based programs at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. She received her BFA from OCAD University, and has exhibited in Ontario. Stay tuned for her participation in local art markets!
An image of Michelle Lee at a craft market. Michelle has brown hair with bangs, with a pink-blonde streak. She is wearing a pair of her handmade ceramic earrings. She wears a blue button down shirt and jeans. She’s standing, with one hand leaning on the table where her ceramics are displayed. There are small ceramic earrings, pendants and little blue pots.
“My current process has really grown out of the desire to work with my hands in a slow and contemplative way. I’m interested in creating work that can be held and touched; that can become a part of the person who owns it. I’ve found small-scale work can invite this level of intimacy. There’s a need to approach them closely, with intention and care to really get a sense of their story. By having the pieces wearable, my work aims to connect this concept even further, having the art move with you, wherever you may go :)
Each clay piece is hand built and intricately painted with underglazes using the tiniest brushes I can find. My go-to size for detail is ‘0000’, though I’m always on the lookout for a finer brush! All the pieces are then fired with a glossy clear glaze on top, and finished with either a chain to turn the work into a necklace or stainless steel hooks for a pair of earrings.
An image of a table, containing various vials of different coloured paint, and Michelle Lee’s hand holding a fine paintbrush. She’s working on two ceramic pendants, both identical, a blue, airy scene with the black outline of a person, with hair blowing in the wind, layered on top.
My inspiration for the imagery initially comes from places that I’ve visited; often while out walking in nature or exploring new locations. From there, I’ll take reference photos to revisit when I'm back at my desk. Through drawing, I begin to reimagine and “deconstruct” the scene captured. I’ll pull forward certain formal elements that have caught my eye and I want to emphasize, while playing with colour and abstraction to shift the feel and composition. I like to leave hints and traces of the original subject matter, yet ultimately depict a new space open to interpretation, and where others can find their own personal connection.”
Check out Michelle’s work on her online shop www.pocketworksfortheapocalypse.com or on instagram @mieve_lee
An image of Michelle Lee’s ceramic necklace called ‘Sisters” The pendant is crescent moon shaped with a chain attached on both ends. The pendant is painted with a series of lines reminiscent of a horison, with two shapes side by side, their shadows outlined with a dotted line.
Heidi Keyes
Heidi is a mixed media artist residing in Toronto. She is from the Kingston area of Ontario and is part Nordic. Her practice seeks to uncover spiritual truths, which will help in creating what she has called "The Earth Idyllic". One of her influences is Swedish artist Hilma af Klint. Heidi believes that by continuously focusing on intelligent insights, wisdom and solutions and positive thoughts that we can realize a successful transition to a new Earth Idyllic.
An image of two paintings mounted on a wall in a living room. The painting are by Heidi Keyes. They are abstract paintings, in pinks, blues and reds. The room holds a long blue velvet couch, a circular coffee table with a vase, and some large books on the floor.
“Most of my works are acrylic on canvas with various acrylic mediums. I do some works on paper. I am using a special pallet which resembles pastels and is intended to create a feeling of warmth and a frequency vibration of love. They are generated through layers of underpainting and a layering paint, the end result is a very glowy work. Spiritual truths arise during the painting process. Each piece deals with a separate aspect of human existence and provides some direction and guidance as to how we could improve.”
An image of an artwork on the wall of a home. The painting is done by Heidi Keyes, an abstract work in pinks, purples and blues. In the room is a modern style table, lamp, and stool.
You can see Heidi’s work in an upcoming exhibition at Mit-Far Cafe at 1098 Yonge Street, at Roxborough.The exhibition runs till January 20th, 2024. @mitfarcafe.
See more of Heidi’s work on her instagram @heidi.e.keyes
Thanks so much to Heidi and Michelle for their participation! And thank you to our beautiful community of art makers and art lovers, for your support of local artists! We encourage you to shop locally and support artists with your purchases all year long!
Looking for more ways to shop locally this winter? Check out Akin’s Winter Art Map, a virtual guide connecting shoppers with local artists, stores and craft markets happening this winter.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
#BringingTheArtsToLife @Canada.Council
Made In Toronto - Highlighting Local Artists and Makers: Janet Hinkle, Heather Stewart, and Shayla Bond
The words “Made In Toronto: Highlighting Local Artists and Makers” on a black banner at bottom and three cropped details of the thee artists work in this blog post.
As we continue to highlight some of Akin’s finest artists and makers this winter season, we’re excited to bring you some toasty warm talent! Akin studio members Janet Hinkle, Heather Stewart, and Shayla Bond have gorgeous original, handmade work available this season for purchase online or in person, read on for more details.
Janet Hinkle
Akin Yonge-St Clair member Janet Hinkle is an interdisciplinary artist with a practice rooted in both contemporary fine art and craft. With a fondness for mixing juxtaposing materials and a practice rooted in shared histories, she is driven to explore concepts involving identity. Pulling inspiration from both mid-century forms and futuristic design, her work manifests as installation, sculpture, gatherings, time-based media, and both human-food and human-flora interaction. She is also one third of studio.docx, a creative team that presents innovative contemporary art in public spaces to create unique community experiences. In addition to her creative practice, Janet Hinkle coordinates and curates art projects and artist capacity-building programs.
Needle Study. A photograph of a textile by Janet Hinkle, Needle Study, in a gallery. The textile is a series of cyanotype fabric with impressions of various leaves, branches and needles. These blue squares of fabric are woven together with a lighter blue-grey fabric, hung on the wall and drapes down onto the hardwood of the gallery’s hardwood floor. Photo: June Cheng
“This winter I am eager to explore the human-flora ecologies present in many major cities, both harmonious and dissonant. Being based in a location that is witness to dormant and dead plant life for half of the year, I am interested in working with local plants in their over-wintering forms to create new projects and programs.”
Find more of Janet’s work on her instagram @_janethinkle_
Catch Janet’s work in these December and January events:
• Château d'Orquevaux Artists & Writers Residency
this December 2023
• Exhibition: Perennial Darkness, Auroral Cultural Centre,
December 2, 2023 - January 27, 2024
• Window Installation: Shifting Grounds, DesignTO Festival,
January 19-28, 2024
• Exhibition: Château, Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre
Corridor Galleries, January 27 - May 3, 2024
Storm Cloud. An installation inside a gallery of Janet Hinkle’s work. The white wall contains pinkish-brown foliage attached to the wall asymmetrically, surrounding an abstract image of pinks, yellows and whites. In front of the wall is a white table holding three small sculptures. Photo: June Cheng
Heather Stewart
Heather's artistic journey has been diverse, with studies at OCADU, NSCAD, The Academy for Realist Art, Avenue Road Art School, and a comprehensive three-year adult art program at Central Technical School.
Proficient in various mediums, including acrylic, printmaking, silk screen, and sculpture, Heather finds her artistic comfort zone in the simplicity of a pencil and the nuanced tones of watercolor. Her artwork aims to forge connections, ranging from the overt to the subtly nuanced, inviting viewers to explore the depth of emotion and expression.
A painting by Heather Stewart called Cottage Life. Rows of small cottage near the shoreline. The still blue water in the foreground reflect the cottages and sky, which is gray and blue.
Residing and working in Toronto, Heather is an active member of Akin and The Don Valley Art Club, enriching her work with diverse perspectives and inspiration.
Find Heather’s work on her Etsy page, ArtbyHeatherStewart
Also check out Heather’s work at an exhibition on now at the Women’s Art Association
“My work is often inspired by my travels. I guide kayak trips in Georgian Bay all summer and love traveling to out of the way places. When I return to the studio I use these images as inspiration to capture the vibrancy and beauty of the places that I have been.”
“I love creating paintings that vibrate with colour and create a feeling of space. I practice in watercolour and ink on paper as well as acrylic on canvas and wood panel. Most of my inspiration comes from my love of travel (and the fact that photos just can't capture the mood that I experience while traveling!)”
A painting by Heather Stewart called Long Drop, a small white house with a red roof sits on top of a tall cliff. The sky is a vibrant golden yellow-orange. On the bottom of the cliff is a beach with a white fence, surrounded by water.
Shayla Bond
Shayla Bond is a Toronto-based process artist recognized for her interesting use of sewn fabrics, quilting and weaving techniques. Her work explores themes of perfectionism, control, and obsession, communicated through colour, precision, and repetition.
A believer in the intimate tradition of crafting her own materials, she also experiments with oil mixing using natural pigments along with paper making. By presenting kindred compositions across diverse mediums, she invites viewers to explore the distinct qualities of each to deepen appreciation of craft.
At the heart of her practice lies a dedication to closing the gap between historic and contemporary making. The old crafts are preserved in her body of work where the echoes of the past harmonize with the cadence of the present.
Framework for feeling. An image of one of Shayla Bond’s textiles, mounted inside a thin wooden frame on a white wall, this fabric is filled with small squares of white interspersed with various coloured squares, mostly in reds, purples and oranges.
“Primarily textile based, I use fabric and thread to create intricately sewn panels based on computer-generated compositions. My aim with these pieces is to cross pollinate quilting with conventional stretched art, to move the quilt from the floor to wall while mastering precision and control over the materials.
I am also the proud owner of ESBE, an artisanal quilt brand where art meets utility through a modern perspective. Embracing traditional techniques, every quilt is meticulously handcrafted by myself, and is both flawlessly detailed and uniquely imperfect.”
Shaya’s work can be purchased on her Etsy store FurnAlleyGifts or through her artisanal quilt brand ESBE at esbestudio.com
Briar quilt fields. An image of one of Shayla Bond’s quilts, blue and white divided into four asymmetrical sections, placed in a field of trees and wildflowers. In the foreground are yellow goldenrod, and lush green foliage all around.
A huge thank you to Janet, Heather and Shayla for participating, we are your biggest fans! We’ll be bringing you more artist highlights in the coming days, so stay tuned!
Looking for more ways to shop locally this winter? Check out Akin’s Winter Art Map, a virtual guide connecting shoppers with local artists, stores and craft markets happening this winter.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
#BringingTheArtsToLife @Canada.Council
Made In Toronto - Highlighting Local Artists and Makers: Vera Ka-Bo Tse, Mark Buck, and Ellis Ricketts
The words “Made In Toronto: Highlighting Local Artists and Makers” on a black banner at bottom and three cropped details of the thee artists work in this blog post.
As winter approaches, it's the perfect time to celebrate the craftsmanship of Akin’s fantastic artists and makers. Whether you're on the lookout for unique gifts or something to bring warmth to your own home with one-of-a-kind pieces, we’re proud to bring you some of our studio Member's fantastic talents. Read on to find out more about the work artist Vera Ka-Bo Tse, painter Mark Buck, and illustrator Ellis Ricketts have available this season!
Vera Ka-Bo Tse
Akin Yonge-St Clair Member Vera Ka-Bo Tse is a Canadian artist who was born in Hong Kong whose work attempts to create an imaginary world which acts as a reminder of one’s origins and natural place of birth which poses questions about our existence and memory of where we came from. The objects represent a state of meditation to connect humans to their origins and earth with principles of wellness and sustainability to remind us that we all come from the same beginning and share commonality in birth, life and death like water flows. Vera Ka-Bo Tse creates work in a meditative state in which she recalls her birth origins in Hong Kong. Her memories are translated into a narrative mythology with iconography and shapes inspired by the Canadian landscape and my internal expression of a calm meditative shapes.
A close up of an arrangement of prints by Vera Ka-Bo Tse on a table with a white tablecloth. The prints are of abstract paintings printed and lined by white mattes arranged in three rows. On the right side, there’s a information poster, with the title “sustainable market art + design. At the edge of the arrangement are small prints with the S’MAD logo on them.
Vera Ka-Bo Tse’s work explores the intersection of art and contemporary design combining techniques of traditional craft using materials like ceramics and metal and paint which create a dialogue that challenges traditional notions of craft and design, beauty, materiality by juxtaposing different media which are like yin and yang to create tension of expression. She coined the artist manifesto Mosaicismal-ism. Mosaicism is the genetic act of combining two or more different genes that produce a mutation that is a hybrid of evolution. Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence involving small parts or fragments of genes that recombine to form new combinations with new functions. Design and Art can be sub-divided into sub-categories that are from various sub-divisions of training and education that can be combined into infinite combinations of mutations deriving from the original pure disciplines to create something new that could not have existed before.
Find more of Vera’s work on instagram @smad.artdesign and on her website www.mosaicismalism.com
Am image of Vera Ka-Bo Tse’s sculptures arranges on a table. Large blue-green sculptures are spread around the table with smaller gold sculptures. The table is covered with a blue tablecloth.
Vera Ka-Bo Tse’s work can be found at the S’mad Holiday Market held at Malvern Town Centre December 9th, 31 Tapscott Rd., Scarborough, from 11am to 5pm. Be sure to check out this event hosted by Councillor Jamaal Myers – City of Toronto, where Vera is organizing a Q & A with one of the original members of the Guild Inn History - Guild Inn Estate to discuss the history of art and craft in Scarborough and the connection to Cedar Ridge Creative Centre to connect the past to the future.
For more information visit @smad.artdesign
An image of Vera Ka-Bo Tse’s table at an outdoor art fair in summer. A table displayed with prints of abstract painting in oranges, greens and blues, and an arrangement of ceramics, yellow and green sculptures.
Ellis Ricketts
Akin Dupont Member Ellis Ricketts is a painter, illustrator, and mixed media artist who lives and works in Toronto as a concept and graphic artist in the film industry. He's a graduate of Humber College for 3D Animation and sometimes uses 3D arts in creating creative environments and textures. Every chance he has, he puts towards creating art for work and entertainment.
An image of Ellis Rickett’s standing beside his painting with this hands folded together. He wears a black and white printed baseball cap, wears circular rimmed glasses and a black, white and red printed shirt. His painting, propped on a table, is a lush, psychedelic looking gardenscape, primarily in green with flowers in purple, red and orange.
Ellis Rickett’s painting Legacy Warrior, two antique war helmets reminiscent of the Trojan era, well worn and slashed, sit amidst a background of red, blue and yellow abstraction.
Ellis Ricketts' main media is traditional pen and ink, or digital illustration but is pursuing a career in painting larger scale pieces. Currently, he is dabbling with acrylics on canvas and wood but is still experimenting with different materials like metals and plastics.
View Ellis’ work on his Instagram @paperscarifications and his work can be purchased on his website: www.ellisricketts.com/shop
Ellis Rickett’s ink drawing on natural textured paper of an army tank with heads of cars, guns and army equipment piled on top of it.
Mark Buck
Akin Dupont Member Mark Buck is a Toronto born artist who has been involved in the art business for over 40 years. After managing two Toronto art galleries he taught secondary high school students visual art, Photoshop, and photography for 19 years. Mark has been a member of Akin Dupont since 2016. His premiere exhibition was held at Youngplace Artscape from June 4- 16 2018. Mark's multilayered 3D kinetic acrylic paintings called "Mondragams" were featured at the 61st Toronto Outdoor Art Fair from July 10-17 2022. Mark’s acrylic paintings, Mondragams and Mixed Media
Mondragam #4. An image of Mark Buck’s work, Mondragam #4 Colour Wave #1. A bright work with 3D squares of various depths arranged in a symmetrical way. The squares are primarily red, yellow, green, brown and blue
Lost Ankh. Mark Buck’s work, Lost Ankh. A collage of texture and shape, including letters, mountains, an eye, and various textures and prints arranged in squares to appear woven together
Paperworks are being offered at 50% OFF during his annual Winter Sale (until December 31 2023). Studio visits are by appointment only. No obligation in-home or business visits within the Toronto (GTA) area are welcome.
Mark's ARTALOG (Art Catalog) pays homage to his/Canada's first digital art gallery. His artwork is three-dimension. It is sculptural. Mark combines his love of art, culture and teaching by featuring the Bauhaus Colour and Shape Design in his artwork. Mark's acrylic paintings sometimes represent his favourite artists such as : Agam, Haring, Lichtenstein, Mondrian, and Picasso.
Mark’s work can be purchased on his website www.markbuck.art
Check out Mark’s BLOG on “How To Buy Artwork”
Hey! Who Ya Lookin’ At? An image of artist Mark Buck’s collage, Hey! Who Ya Lookin’ At? Three collaged figures are in the image, on the left hand side, a the figure has blonde hair, one eye and lips. In the middle, a figure wears a hair, and a button down shirt, suit jacket and tie. The third figure, on the right side of the picture has voluptuous blonde hair and white and blue spotted skin. A speech bubble above their head reads “Hey! Who Ya Lookin’ At?”
A huge thank you to Vera, Ellis and Mark for participation. Stay tuned for more maker highlights coming to you throughout the month.
Looking for more ways to shop locally this winter? Check out Akin’s Winter Art Map, a virtual guide connecting shoppers with local artists, stores and craft markets happening this winter.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
#BringingTheArtsToLife @Canada.Council
Akin 15th Anniversary celebration: Former Akin Members, Where Are They Now?
Clockwise from top left: Stephanie Avery, Natalie Waddell, Michael Vickers, Miles Tsang and Shanna Van Maurik and the Akin log with the words “Former Members Highlight!”
Akin studios have played a part in the creative journeys of hundreds of artists in Toronto. For fifteen years, makers across the creative spectrum have gathered in Akin studios to work alongside one another, to use these spaces to grow and nourish and grow their practices.
As Akin’s 15th Anniversary celebrations continue, we reached out to some of Akin’s former members, artists who have once called Akin Studios their home, to see what they’re up to now, and to hear how Akin Studios influenced their creative journeys.
Stephanie Avery
Former Akin Studios: Akin Studio Program at Auto BLDG (formerly “The Akin Studio Program at MOCA" and Akin Ossington
Stephanie Avery’s CV is packed with murals and exhibitions and creative projects internationally, Find more of Stephanie’s work through her website www.stephanieavery.com and instagram @stephvonawesome
“I am a Toronto-based multidisciplinary artist who explores and subverts our collective relationships to public space. Even though I went to school for art and have never stopped practicing, being at Akin MOCA was the first time I fully dedicated myself to my art and considered it as a viable full-time job. Now, five years later, I'm a full-time artist.”
Steph Avery lays across a white workbench inside the light therapy room inside the Museum of Contemporary Art. Steph wears a white coat, red print tights and blue printed socks. Beyond the bench is a white table with a laptop open, in a room with white walls and windows.
“I was with the first group of artists at Akin MOCA, when it was a one year studio residency, and we really bonded as a group. It's hard to choose just one memory because we made so many. But I'm going with the light therapy room. The winter we were there, MOCA had a light therapy room installed on the same floor as our studio, so we had access to it at any time. All through the season, after gallery hours, we would gather there to relax, converse, goof around and soak up as much light as we could.”
Miles Tsang
Former Member at: Akin Ossington
Miles Tsang illustrates for major clients in the music industry such as Metallica, Dave Matthews Band, and the Avett Brothers Find more work on Miles’ website www.milestsang.com and instagram @milestsang
“I currently operate out of a shared office studio where I produce intricate commercial illustrations for screen printing applications, mostly in the music industry. Recently I've begun to prioritize personal work and intend to create a curated body of it for release sometime in the future.”
Miles Tsang stands in his studio, working at a silkscreen press. He is wearing a gray shirt and black pants, and wears a black mask. The studio is filled with shelves and drying racks.
“I have many pleasant memories that all blend together consisting of long nights cleaning, setting up and printing large runs of posters. It’s hard to be specific as I often lost myself in the process and basically loved the entirety of my time there.”
Michael Vickers
Former Member at: Akin Dufferin, and Lansdowne. Former Akin Staff member serving as Studio Manager, and then Co-Director for Akin Projects.
Michael Vickers, the former co-director of Akin, has continued on with a fantastic career both as an artist, and with the Brampton Arts Organization. Find more of Michael’s work on his website www.michaelvickers.org and on instagram @michaeljohnvickers
An image taken from a high angle of Michael Vickers and Oliver Pauk in the Akin Dufferin Studio in 2017. Michael, on the left, wears a black jacket, black pants and brown boots, he has brown hair. Oliver Pauk wears a checkered shirt, grey pants and a green toque. Around them are the work tables and white divider walls which separate each studio, which are filled with art supplies. One person in the background sits at one of the desks with a laptop open, and another walks down the hall. Photo Credit: Vince Talotta / Toronto Star
Michael Vickers is a community activator, cultural leader and practicing artist focused on providing meaningful advocacy, support and growth for the arts sector at the local level and across Canada. He is currently the Senior Program Lead for Brampton Arts Organization and was previously Co-Director of Akin, having also held roles with the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto and Ottawa Art Gallery. Vickers holds an MA in Art History from the University of Toronto and an Honours BA in Visual Arts & Communications. His work has been exhibited locally and internationally, including presentations at Volta Basel, Mercer Union, Dutch Design Week, Art Toronto and Design TO and has been supported by the Toronto Arts Council, Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts.
“I was involved with every Akin studio from 2011 to 2021! A decade of different spaces.”
An image of Michael Vickers leading a gallery crawl event. He stands in a gallery with white walls and a concrete floor, art on the walls, facing a crowd of about thirty people, who are standing or sitting, facing him in a circle and listening to him speak.
“There are so many special memories from my time with Akin- from walking into Akin Dufferin and meeting Oliver as I looked for a studio space in a new City to the excitement of new locations opening or securing opportunities for the folks we served. What has always stood out is the immense sense of community Akin can cultivate. In moments of doubt or difficulty (studio evictions, various worries) it was the encouragement of our collective group- a collaborative spirit that propelled us forward. No artist stands alone. Our organization grew from a small space with a few friends to hundreds of creatives and my time as Co-Director will always be one of the most meaningful and special eras of my career (and life as an artist). Akin is testament to the transformative power of the arts—a sanctuary where creativity thrives and people can be themselves in a safe, artistic way.”
Natalie Waddell
Former member at: Akin Dufferin, Akin King
Natalie Waddell will be a judge of a new CBC television series, Canadian Pottery Show! Find more of Natalie’s work on her website www.ClayGirl.ca and instagram @claygirlceramics
Natalie Waddell working on clay on a pottery wheel. Natalie is wearing a blue shirt, has dark brown hair pulled into a bun with blonde highlights. Behind her, a shelf holds a vast amount of art supplies.
“I create unique and precious ceramic objects handcrafted to enhance your life and environment. With emphasis on functional forms I love to know the pieces I make can be used in regular day to day life. Each item I make is designed and decorated to connect function and art. I believe using handmade objects in our daily lives brings a sense of connection, grounding and appreciation for work, art and nature.”
Natalie Waddell’s studio, with her sign “Clay Girl” hanging on a wall above a work table. Shelves mounted to the brick wall and work table hold stacks of pottery.
“The impact of practicing my art and growing creatively within the Akin spaces was transformative to my ceramic career. Forming connections and relationships with artists across multiple mediums is some of my best take away from that time.”
Shanna Van Maurik
Former member at: Akin Dupont
Shanna Van Murik continues to create breathtaking work, with an ever growing online following, Find more of Shanna’s work on her website shannavanmaurik.com and instagram @nogobed
Shanna Van Maurik stands inside her studio at Akin Dupont. Shanna has shoulder length pink hair, and wears a colorful, tie dye shirt and black boots. Colorful portraits are mounted against white walls. A large window in the foreground is surrounded by bright green plants, and a pink work table holds notebooks. Photo Credit: Spencer Robertson
“Looking back, the little moments at Akin DuPont mean the most to me, talking with friends made there and building a community. There was a great sense of openness and sharing among members that created a great energy. Not to mention, the sunsets in my space were really special!”
An image of Shanna Van Maurik’s studio at Akin Dupont. A yellow-green velvet chair sits against a white wall, behind which stands a tall shelf filled with art supplies. Beside the shelf is a large window showing a vibrant sunset of pinks and purples.
A huge thank you to these talented artists for their participation, we’re so proud of them, and we can’t wait to see what they’ll do next!
Want to celebrate in-person?
Akin will be hosting a 15th Anniversary drop-in celebration at Akin’s Remote Gallery on December 5 from 4-8pm for an evening filled with Akin memorabilia and nostalgia.
You can help Akin Projects continue to support arts in Toronto for another fifteen years! You can donate to Akin Projects here. Your contributions directly impact artists in ways that are meaningful to arts and culture in our city, as well as to the communities in which we work. We can’t thank you enough for your support.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
#BringingTheArtsToLife @Canada.Council
Akin Member Highlight: Suzanne Dennis and Andrea Bailey
An image of Andrea Bailey’s artwork, Collage #2, a colourful collage of layered prints in blues, reds, whites and pinks, with a painting of a blue haired figure over top
We’re back with another highlight of some of Akin’s long-term members.
Andrea Bailey has been an Akin studio member since 2012, and Suzanne Dennis since 2014. We’re so proud to have provided a creative home for these fantastic artists, so, to celebrate Akin’s 15th Anniversary, we reached out to them to learn more about their work and their Akin journey.
Suzanne Dennis
Suzanne Dennis is a Toronto artist who paints abstract and nonobjective images on canvas and paper using acrylic paint and mediums.
The inspiration for much of her work has come from details found in nature and man made objects. A favourite source is ancient and modern stone surfaces and architecture. These provide not only interesting compositions, textures and colours but are silent elements present in the places where we live our lives, and where history is made.
Suzanne records images in photos and sketches using them as a roadmap to create the compositions and then lets her intuition and joy of painting take over. Suzanne invites the viewer to enjoy the interpretation she presents and to share the story of its creation. Suzanne has been painting for 25 years and exhibits and sells her work in Toronto at shows, galleries, commercial venues and clubs.
You can find more of Suzanne’s work on her website, www.suzannedennis.ca or on her instagram, @Suzannedennis01
Suzanne Dennis3: Suzanne Dennis stands in front of an easel in her studio. On the easel, and on the wall behind her, are abstract paintings of green, blue and red. Suzanne is holding up a piece of cloth covered in multicoloured paint, she’s holding it up to her face, her eyes peeking over it.
What brought you to Akin?
I moved to a condo leaving a home where I had a basement studio space. With nowhere to paint I started the process of looking for studio space in Toronto. I was at the Apple store, learning how to organise photos, and the instructor noticed all the images of my work.
He asked me where I painted and I said I had no space any longer. It was really my lucky day. He was a member of the Akin Collective.
He gave me the contact information for Oliver Pauk. I called Oliver and met him that week and secured studio space on Wade Avenue. I always consider this one of the luckiest things that has happened in my art career!
Can you give us a timeline of your Akin Journey? Where did it start? Which studios have you been a member at?
I met Oliver in September of 2014 and secured my first studio space on the ground floor at Wade Avenue. A number of years later the ground floor studios were “Reno-evicted” by the landlord. Jen Pilles quickly secured a space for me at the Dupont Studios (room 204).
The studio turned out to be too small and after a few months I moved within the same room to a larger space which I have enjoyed for a few years. Due to some family personal issues I was unable to get to my studio very often in the last year so I have moved again to a smaller space by the window. And I absolutely love it, and think it is the perfect spot for me. A total of four moves in 10 years!
Do you have any special memories associated with your time at Akin?
A favourite memory is my participation in “The Art of Healing” arranged by the Akin Collective in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities. I participated in 2015 and again in 2016. I was invited by Michael Vickers to participate as one of the 23 artists to craft a piece of art with a child staying at the House. The work produced with the children was exhibited and auctioned to raise funds and the joy it brought the kids and the artists, it’s one of my favourite memories.
Suzanne Dennis poses with two kids during Akin’s Art of Healing event in collaboration with Ronald McDonald House. The child to the right of Suzanne wears a red baseball cap, a striped shirt, and wears a nasogastric tube. The child on the left wears a blue shirt and a green lanyard. They stand beside a bright red abstract painting, accented with forest greens. The painting sits on an easel.
What was your favourite Akin studio to work out of, and why?
My favourite studio was the first one on the ground floor at Wade Avenue. The space there was very large and open. The ceiling was high and I was surrounded by artists of all kinds, costume designers, book illustrators, jewellery makers, and I felt a sense of real community and creativity. I would see Oliver, Michael and Jen frequently and always enjoyed the interaction.
Do you have a routine for art making at the studio? Any special rituals to get your creativity flowing?
I’d like to take a large piece of paper and scribble all over it and take out a brush and make marks just to get myself loose.
You've been creating art for a long time! What do you think is the key to keeping the practice going, long term?
Not everyone has the opportunity to keep creating art throughout their life, whether that is because of the expenses associated with it, or the time that it deserves. For me, it always sits in my mind as a destination I’ve got to make my way to. It is my source of pure joy, and I won’t sacrifice that.
Andrea Bailey
Andrea is a self taught abstract artist working in acrylic and ink, and most recently, collage. She is known for her use of colour; bold and confident, but also subtle and complex. Born with challenges which never defined her, she works from a home studio and the Akin Logan studio.
You can find more of Andrea Bailey’s work at her website, www.yummyarty.com and on her instagram @yummyartyab
Andrea Bailey stands inside of her Akin River Studio. The white walls have prints of her world arranged in a pattern. There’s a black foldout chair against the wall and a grey table with a painting in progress on it, alongside large containers of paint brushes.
What Brought you to Akin, originally?
A desire to be in a creative space with other creative people and to learn and develop along with them.
Can you give us a timeline of your Akin Journey? Where did it start? Which studios have you been a member at?
I joined in 2012. I have had studio space at Lansdowne (one upstairs and one downstairs), River Street and now at Logan Avenue.
Andrea Bailey painting inside her Akin Logan Studio. She is wearing a purple shirt, black pants and winter boots. She’s painting an abstract painting filled with lines which lays on a table. Another painting sits beside it. Behind her is a shelf filled with paint tubes.
Do you have any special memories associated from your time at Akin?
I always thought Oliver was the greatest. At an early art sale from the Landsdowne main floor studio, I gave Oliver one of my favourite paintings. He gave me a photograph of my plastic paint table covering that turned a mess into an abstract work of art. It is framed in my home to this day
What was your favorite Akin studio to work out of?
Lansdowne, main floor
An image of artist Andrea Bailey in her Akin Lansdowne studio, Andrea stands in front of a white wall lines with canvases, she’s wearing black pants and a grey jacket, she has brown, shoulder length hair. In the foreground is a large abstract painting, of circles, lines and dots in reds, purples, greens, blues and pinks.
Do you have a routine for art making at the studio? Any special rituals to get your creativity flowing?
It is just something I have to do every day.
You've been creating art for a long time! What do you think is the key to keeping the practice going, long term?
Don't be afraid to try new things and remember that not everything will work.
Thanks to Suzanne and Andrea for your participation, and for your beautiful work! We’re so thankful to have you both as such strong, vital members of our community. As we continue to celebrate our 15th Anniversary, later this month we’ll be highlighting some of Akin’s former members: where are they now? So stay tuned!
Want to celebrate in-person?
Akin will be hosting a 15th Anniversary drop-in celebration at Akin’s Remote Gallery on December 5 from 4-8pm for an evening filled with Akin memorabilia and nostalgia.
You can help Akin Projects continue to support arts in Toronto for another fifteen years! You can donate to Akin Projects here. Your contributions directly impact artists in ways that are meaningful to arts and culture in our city, as well as to the communities in which we work. We can’t thank you enough for your support.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
#BringingTheArtsToLife @Canada.Council
Akin Member Highlight: Liliana Botero Rey
Liliana working in her studio at Akin St Clair. She is wearing headphones, glasses, and an apron over her blue shirt. Her dog, a miniature schnauzer, sits on her lap and leans her head on an open drawer.
What is Akin without our fantastic artists? There’s no other way we’d rather celebrate our 15th anniversary than by showing off our amazing members.
We’ve reached out to some of our longest-serving members to hear their Akin stories, starting with Liliana Botero Rey who has been an Akin member as well as a member of the Akin Team for ten years.
Since 2013, Liliana has been a big part of our studios. She’s made a lasting impact on our community, and has created some beautiful work during her time at Akin!
Liliana Botero Rey
Liliana Botero is a glass artist who studied and trained in Colombia, the United States and Canada, to specialise in different techniques to expand her knowledge in glass handling such as: stained glass, fused glass, mosaic, lampwork jewellery, and and more techniques. At the same time she studied Graphic Design. She owned and operated a glass art studio in Bogota-Colombia for 12 years before she moved to Canada in 2011 where she opened a glass studio in 2013.
Liliana has been enjoying working with glass since she was a student when she wished to become a professional glass artist and work with it all her life. Glass is her passion!
She feels satisfaction when she creates, but more when the people are attracted to the pieces she makes and pays to keep them. She loves living the life of an artist, working with her hands, creating through inspiration.
You can find more of Lili’s work on Etsy or on her instagram, @destellosglassart and keep reading below for our interview with Liliana to learn more about her long history with Akin and her creative work.
What brought you to Akin?
At the end of 2013, almost newly arrived in Canada, I came across this fabulous idea: Akin Collective, an affordable shared and dedicated spaces, as the home of my small business. After tirelessly searching in Toronto, for where I could land my ideas as a glass artist.
Can you give us a timeline of your Akin Journey? Where did it start? Which studios have you been a member at?
My first studio in 2013 was super small. I asked for the space they offered me to be partitioned because it was out of my budget. This was in the Lansdowne location, where I shared beautiful moments and made my first friends in this beautiful country, Canada. One of the coolest things is the exchange of ideas and techniques that you can share and at the same time receive from my studio mates.
Currently, the studio where I work is Akin St.Clair, my space is larger and more comfortable, "My Happy Place" where I work with all the equipment and tools that I have acquired over these 10 years, expanding the techniques with which I work with Destellos-Glass Art, my business.
Do you have any special memories associated with your time at Akin?
The programs and events that I have participated in with Akin have helped to promote and give recognition to my brand and at the same time promote the products that I make in this wonderful place.
Also, I can bring my furry baby Lara every day, she is my partner in crime.
Liliana is sitting in her studio at Akin St Clair. She is wearing a blue baseball cap, an apron, and her dog, a miniature schnauzer, is sitting on her lap. The walls of her studio are lined with work tables filled with a wide array of tools, beads, lighting equipment, and brushes. A framed photo of another schnauzer is mounted on the wall. A dream catcher is hanging from the ceiling.
A couple of years ago, my husband thought about leaving our condo and moving into a house. Where I would get "The whole basement" for my studio. The truth is, I'm not interested in staying isolated at home, I change having my workplace surrounded by the artistic environment, sharing with other artists and being able to expand my network? No way!!
What was your favorite Akin studio to work out of, and why?
I miss Lansdowne studios, it was a cozy and warm place with a lot of friends I could connect with during my first years with Akin, from there I made my first friends in Canada.
I like my current studio at St. Clair West. It is more comfortable. From here I also expanded my business.
An image of Liliana’s former studio in 2014. A table with a white tablecloth holds an elaborate display of her colourful glass work: picture frames, coasters, sculptures, jewellery. Necklaces and earrings are mounted to the wall in frames. In the corner is a desk with a rolling chair.
Do you have a routine for art making at the studio? Any special rituals to get your creativity flowing?
The earlier, the better. For me, it is so important to take advantage of the momentum that your body lets you bring. The best time is from morning till afternoon, sometimes late at night too, depending on the inspiration and/or the orders you can extend the work hours. Sometimes 8, 10, 12 or when I get crazy (in a good way) 14 work hours.
You've been creating art for a long time! What do you think is the key to keeping the practice going, long term?
Consistency and belief in what you make with love. People get attracted by them. It is all the emotions and energy you input into your work that makes the pieces so special and people feel this and pay for it.
A picture of Liliana Botero, Oliver Pauk, and Michael Vickers at Akin’s 10th Anniversary party in 2018. Behind them are large golden balloons which spell “Akin”. Oliver and Michael are wearing button up shirts and shorts, Liliana wears a pink dress with a jean jacket.
A huge thank you to Liliana for taking the time for this interview. We also thank you for your hard work in the studios every single week for the last 10 years keeping our spaces beautiful and safe for our members - and thank you for being a part of this community for ten years! We will be highlighting more Akin members this month as we continue to celebrate our 15 year anniversary!
Stay tuned throughout the month of November as we celebrate our anniversary on the Akin blog with more member highlights!
Want to celebrate in-person?
Akin will be hosting a 15th Anniversary drop-in celebration at Akin’s Remote Gallery on December 5 from 4-8pm for an evening filled with Akin memorabilia and nostalgia.
You can help Akin Projects continue to support arts in Toronto for another fifteen years! You can donate to Akin Projects here. Your contributions directly impact artists in ways that are meaningful to arts and culture in our city, as well as to the communities in which we work. We can’t thank you enough for your support.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts
#BringingTheArtsToLife @Canada.Council
Akin turns 15! An Interview with Founder & Director, Oliver Pauk
Fifteen years ago, on November 1st, 2008, Akin opened its first studio for artists in Toronto. Since then, we’ve grown to support hundreds of artists all across the city, becoming the largest provider of shared studio spaces in Toronto.
We’re launching this celebration with an interview with our Director and Co-Founder, Oliver Pauk, who’s been building Akin since the very first day.
Tell us a bit about yourself! You're an artist yourself?
Oliver: “I've been active in music and visual art since I was young. I've played in a few bands over the years and I started with photography the moment my dad gave me his old 35mm camera. I studied economics in school (which has been helpful in my work with Akin) but began really focusing on my creative interests right after graduating from university. Over the years my practice has evolved from photography to 3D printing, CNC milling and video. Lately, I've been carving wood and stone and am really enjoying the deepened, hands-on relationship that I'm building with my pieces.”
Learn more about Oliver’s art practice at www.oliverpauk.com
Image Description: Oliver Pauk stands against a white curtain background. He is wearing a white T-shirt and a colourful hat and smiling.
Take us back to the beginning, how did Akin start?
Oliver: “A group of friends and I had all been working on our creative pursuits separately from our homes but really wanted a place to work together and inspire one another. Friends of mine were moving out of their old loft space in West Queen West and one of them, Mike Dellios (who went on to serve a term as our Board Chair) and I decided to turn the loft into a workspace that the 12 of us could afford to work in. We set up storage racks, built worktables to share. On the weekends we'd often host art exhibitions, film screenings and other art events. This was all that Akin was intended to be. Pretty quickly we realized that we weren't the only artists in Toronto in need of space like this. After three months we moved around the corner onto Dufferin St, in a space that was four times larger. Fast forward 15 years, we're still essentially doing the same thing: working as an artist-run team to find spaces that we can afford, setting them up with an aim of reducing financial barriers to creative space for folks from the community, and bringing people together around the arts.”
Which of our many past studios was your favourite? Why?
Oliver: “I have a soft spot for Akin Lansdowne at 87 Wade Avenue. This was the second studio that Akin set up. At the time I was doing most of the work myself, but was starting to get more support from my friend Michael Vickers (who was Akin’s Co-Director for many years). We had as many as five units at one time in this building and they were beauties; bright, raw spaces with high ceilings, close to the subway, with tons of awesome neighbours and about 100 Akin members! We ended up hosting regular gatherings (both organized and spontaneous) and people got to know one another really well. This is still something that happens in our studios, but it was really cool (at least for me) to see the future potential of Akin through what happened in that building. It made me want to take Akin further in order to involve more artists in the city. ”
What have been some of your proudest moments, working for Akin?
Oliver: “Akin has been full of surprises from day one. It feels a little bit like another child in a sense (I do have a 5yr old human son). Helping build Akin has felt like a separate creative process of its own and I'm proud that we've made it to 15 years (because it hasn’t been easy). We’ve created this new sentient entity that Akin's team and I are able to collaborate with (which is how we view it). That brings me to something else that I'm proud of... our team. When I say team I mean our staff, our board, AREA (our real estate advisory), and our various other advisors. I feel so lucky to have met all of these people, let alone engage on this interesting mission with them. I'm proud of how much we all care about Akin, about the arts, about artists and I know that it shows in the work that we do.”
15 Years of Akin in 15 Images:
Explore Akin’s history in 15 images, one taken from each year in
Akin's journey since 2008. Enjoy!
What are the biggest challenges Akin has faced, as an organization?
Oliver: “Where to begin :) There have been many. What we're doing with Akin is not a regular thing. It's different, it's special, it's innovative... Many hurdles have needed to be jumped. In many ways Akin still exists because of trial and error. There's no handbook for what we do. We've had to figure it out by failing and learning. A major part of our role today is to facilitate an amicable and mutually beneficial relationship between the arts and real estate. These two industries, and the people who make them up, have historically had a tumultuous relationship and it hasn't gone well in the vast majority of instances, internationally. We believe that we have figured out ways to create a win-win for both groups but there are challenges on both sides. Finding our way in the real estate industry has been challenging. Thankfully we're building a growing network of property owners who understand why we do what we do and why it's important to both communities and to them.
Bringing together a large number of people to share working space comes with a lot of challenges. We try our best to create safe, comfortable and inspiring spaces for everyone who is part of Akin and it's truly upsetting if we let people down. That motivates us to continue learning and improving every day.
2020 and 2021 were very tough years for us and for many of the artists we work with, for obvious reasons relating to COVID. It took lots of perseverance from our whole team as well as open communication with Akin's members and our real estate partners. Thankfully we made it through, albeit as a tinier version of the organization, and this is in large part due to the extreme resilience of the artists in Toronto. Much of this year has been rough as well, for our team and for me in my role, as we've undergone a number of organizational shifts. Thankfully, these challenges, along with the progress that we're making in other areas have enabled Akin to find itself in what I would consider to be its best position yet. We're set to open a number of new studios in order to provide work space for many artists and designers in Toronto who are in need. There will be many more challenges to come but I know that Akin's perseverance and spirit are strong and that we will continue to find creative solutions to move forward in ways that are true to what we believe in.”
How has Akin changed over the years? What has stayed the same?
Oliver: “There are some really important things that have stayed the same. We're still artist-run, still trying to break down financial barriers to creative space and we still care deeply about Toronto's community of artists. We have hopes to continue having a valuable impact on our city.
And yes, Akin has changed too. When Akin was young, I would never have guessed that it could have the impact it has today. I'm happy about most major changes, but simultaneously I miss aspects of the old, simpler days. I knew everyone who was a member at Akin which is sadly not the case today. There was less riding on our team's decisions than there is now and that burden can feel heavy sometimes.”
What have you learned about the artist community, and about Toronto, through your 15 years building Akin?
Oliver: “I've learned about the vitality of artists. Artists genuinely think in ways that allow society to grow and heal and evolve. They're brave and interesting and, of course, inspiring. I've seen and learned of many challenges being created in Toronto for creatives. The precarity for artists to live in the city is high, forcing them to either give up their practices or move further out of the city. The vast majority of people living in the city say that they care about art and it's easy to understand how important it is for our society, economy, and health, but it seems like they don't realize that art is made by artists. This disconnect needs to be explored. I feel that there needs to be more effort put towards growing the public valuation of artists.”
Where is Akin headed?
Oliver: “We're sticking to what's important to us. We're building on what we do and what we as artists need and we're doing it in the ways that we know best. We've done a ton of work this year to ensure that Akin is around long into the future and a major part of this will be the opening of new studios in 2024. Thankfully we have a number of spaces that are being lined up and we know that they're needed by our community of artists. I intend for us to remain open-minded and open-hearted, to learn from the people we surround ourselves with and to continue exploring the current boundaries of our role in ways that are genuinely important.”
Akin would like to thank Oliver Pauk for the interview and for all his hard work for Akin over the years. We also want to thank all of our amazing members (past, present and future), our board members, consultants, supporters and community members! Stay tuned throughout the month of November as we celebrate our anniversary on the Akin blog with more member highlights!
Want to celebrate
in-person?
Akin will be hosting a 15th Anniversary drop-in celebration at Akin’s Remote Gallery on December 4 from 4-8pm for an evening filled with Akin memorabilia and nostalgia.
You can help Akin Projects continue to support arts in Toronto for another fifteen years! You can donate to Akin Projects here. Your contributions directly impact artists in ways that are meaningful to arts and culture in our city, as well as to the communities in which we work. We can’t thank you enough for your support.
Akin Studio Program Member Highlights Blog #3: Jason Bomers, Yani Gellman & Tiana Robinson
In the grand finale of our blog series highlighting members of the Akin Studio Program at Auto BLDG, we’re thrilled to introduce three more talented artists who have been busy creating and exploring in the studio during this culminating year. Learn more about their creative work, inspiration, process and more below!
As we say goodbye to this transformative Studio Program, we extend a warm invitation for you to join us in the studio on Floor 4 of the Auto BLDG, 158 Sterling Road, on October 14th, from 12-4pm, for a captivating Open Studio Day. Join us as we swing open the doors to the public, celebrating the remarkable journey of our talented artists.
Read MoreAkin Studio Program Member Highlights Blog #2: Mel Hayes & Erin McCluskey
This year’s cohort of Akin Auto BLDG studio program is packed with talent! We caught up with a couple of them to ask them some questions about their practise and inspirations, in advance of the Open Studio Day at Akin Auto BLDG, 158 Sterling Road, where we’ll be opening the doors for a public walkthrough October 14th, 12-4pm.
Read MoreAkin Studio Program Member Highlights Blog #1: Linds Miyo, Amada Estabillo & Kate Gorman
This month, we’re going to be sharing with you some exclusive interviews with the talented artists from Akin Studio Program at Auto BLDG! Learn about their work here, and then head out to the Open Studio event to meet them in person on October 14th, 12-4pm at 158 Sterling Road, Floor 4.
Read MoreAkin Waterfront Member Highlights - Meet the artists: Marcia, Vicky & Niki!
As spring approaches we want to take the time to highlight the creative work and community spirit of some of our Akin Waterfront Members. Introducing Marcia Bianchi, Vicky Vyas, and Niki Nazhand! Click “READ MORE” below to continue reading and learn more about these artists, their art practices, and why they love working in an Akin studio!
Read MoreAkin St Clair Member Highlights - Meet the artists: Natalie and Rumi! (part two)
We continue today with our final post highlighting the creative work and Akin spirit of five artists from our beloved St. Clair Studio! Introducing Natalie Plociennik and Rumi! Continue reading to learn more about these artists, their art practices, and why they love working in an Akin studio! Click here to visit part one of this blog post where we met three other Akin St Clair artists.
Read MoreAkin St Clair Member Highlights - Meet the artists: Liliana, Tam & Rose!
As the year comes to a close, we would like to highlight the creative work and Akin spirit of five artists from our beloved St. Clair Studio! Today we are introducing Liliana Botero, Tam Phan, and Rose Sevhan Kaynar. Continue reading to learn more about these artists, their art practices, and why they love working in an Akin studio! And stay tuned tomorrow for Part Two!
Read More
Collision Artist Spotlight: Maren Boedeker
This month we checked in with some of the resident artists in our studios at Collision Gallery to see what they have been working on over the last few months.
This week we caught a glimpse of new work in progress by Maren Boedeker.
Maren Boedeker studied visual arts and art education at the Academy of Fine Arts in Münster, Germany.
Her abstract, large-scale canvases have been shown in galleries in Germany, Belgium and Canada. She received the artist-in-residency-grant Liguria, Italy and was awarded first place in the exhibition "Art for Europe", curated by the European Community in Brussels, Belgium.
Besides her artistic practice, she has continuously been working with children, teens and adults as an art teacher and instructor.
Since 2013 she lives and works in Toronto. She was selected for the AKIN Studio Program 2018/19, first year, having her studio at the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (MOCA).
Video by Maren Boedeker. Filmed in Toronto, ON.
To learn more about this artist and her practice visit www.marenboedeker.com/ or via instagram at @marenboedeker.artist
Collision Artist Spotlight: Maria Kim
This month we checked in with some of the resident artists in our studios at Collision Gallery to see what they have been working on over the last few months.
This week we caught a glimpse of new work in progress by Maria Kim.
"During the past three years, I have been given opportunities to participate and work with international artist residencies for six months each in Paris, Barcelona, Seville and a full year in Leipzig. After returning to Toronto last September to participate as a Resident Artist at the Mississauga Living Arts Centre (MLAC), I had to decide to lengthen my stay to be with family through the events of the pandemic, and have now joined AKIN X Collision residency for the rest of the year.
Current conditions have opened my mind in redefining blurred boundaries of interior and exterior spaces, public and private realms, the lucidity of time, and notions of progress and regress. Personally, I have always been heavily informed by histories, individual and collective experiences, distorted and manipulated memories, altered perceptions of the world through the intergernerational transferring of beliefs, values and stories, and notions of truth. These interests were born initially from being a Korean-Canadian, as I long searched the tangible stories of Korean diaspora left in lands without citizenship throughout Asia during WWII and the Korean War. Through constant research and exploration of transgenerational trauma and how it affects individuals in present situations, I paint the figures using the face and body as the place which holds the traces of human experience.
This exhibition titled: "Singled Out" reveals some of these expressions, and blurred lines of memory with reality, painted during my time away and upon returning home." - Maria Kim
Video by Maria Kim. Filmed in Toronto, ON.
To learn more about this artist and her practice visit www.mihyunmariakim.com/ or via instagram at @singmariamaria
Collision Artist Spotlight: Lindsay Chambers
This month we checked in with some of the resident artists in our studios at Collision Gallery to see what they have been working on over the last few months.
This week we caught a glimpse of an ongoing series of painted photographs by Lindsay Chambers.
This month we checked in with some of the resident artists in our studios at Collision Gallery to see what they have been working on over the last few months. This week we caught a glimpse of new work in progress by Lindsay Chambers.
"Hello, my name is Lindsay Chambers and I am an artist at Akin's Collision Studio''. “Paper, by virtue of its intended function, has a relationship with the human need to communicate with others. With or without obvious markings upon its surface, crumpled and discarded or particularly arranged, there is an under-standing that a piece of paper has been created and influenced in content, form and gesture by its previous handler. Paper is made to capture a piece of ourselves, and my work explores this relationship.”
Lindsay Chambers is a Canadian artist currently practicing in Toronto, Ontario. Her work explores the delicacies of the human condition through paintings based on crumpled paper sculptures. All reference material, including any pattern or text, is carefully executed by the hand of the Artist. Chambers’ painting objective is always to explore materials, to manipulate paint and maintain the visibility of layers. The subject matter, as it explores our relationship with paper, is at times representational while at other times aims to find a space between realism and abstraction.
Chambers has an Honours BA from the University of Waterloo in Fine Arts and Psychology, a certificate in 3D for Broadcast Animation and Design from Humber College and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Windsor. Her work belongs to collections across Canada, as well as in the United States, UK, Dubai, New Zealand, Australia and Japan. View the full video via the link in our bio. Video by Lindsay Chambers. Filmed in Toronto, ON.
To learn more about this artist and her practice visit www.lindsaychambers.ca or via facebook/instagram at @lindsaychamberspainting.
Stay tuned for updates on Lindsay Chambers’ upcoming programming onsite at Collision Gallery this Fall!
Collision Artist Spotlight: Janne Reuss
This month we checked in with some of the resident artists in our studios at Collision Gallery to see what they have been working on over the last few months.
This week we caught a glimpse of an ongoing series of painted photographs by Janne Reuss.
Janne Reuss is a multidisciplinary and conceptually-driven artist. In her recent series Rewriting the Story, she combines photography and painting, creating ambiguous spaces that evoke imaginary and spiritual landscapes. A constant theme in her work is the exploration of the human condition of freedom and confinement. The process of liberation and transformation of false narratives and identities.
She studied Fine Arts at the Academy of Art & Design in Stuttgart, Germany, and History of Art in Mexico City, where she was born and raised. Her work is held in private as well as public collections: The Donovan Art Collection at St. Michael’s College, Toronto, Canada (2013), and the Municipal Gallery Ostfildern, Germany (2008).
Video by Janne Reuss. Filmed in Toronto, ON.
To learn more about this artist and her practice visit www.artjanne.com or https://www.instagram.com/jannereuss.
Interested in viewing Janne's work in person? Visit Remote Gallery (568B Richmond Street West) September 14-23, 2020 for 'Selfreflections3'.
Join the virtual opening on September 14th at 7pm. RSVP to join via selfreflections3@gmail.com.
Collision Artist Spotlight: Antonio Pendones
This month we checked in with some of the resident artists in our studios at Collision Gallery to see what they have been working on over the last few months.
This week we caught a glimpse of an ongoing series of mixed media sculptures by Antonio Pendones.
Antonio Pendones works with a variety of media including digital canvasses through the use of mobile devices such as the iPhone and iPad. Harnessing the skills and knowledge earned after years of working as a designer, Antonio’s art is bold and colourful, intricate and complex, refined and elegant, and, as he says, “wondrous and surprising”.
Since 2004, Antonio has lived and worked in Toronto, both as an artist, as well as an Art Director. His work has been featured in galleries, venues and events throughout Toronto, such as Moniker Gallery, Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition, the Pan-American Food Festival and Koyman Galleries in Ottawa. In 2014, Antonio exhibited at Spectrum Miami Art Fair during Art Basel.
Born in Guananico, The Dominican Republic, Antonio moved to New York City at the age of 20 to pursue his passion for design. He earned an Associate’s Degree from Bronx Community College. He then went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design degree from the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in 1999. After completing his degree, Antonio began his design career at the prestigious The New Yorker magazine, where he held the position of Senior Designer.
At the core of each of his pieces is a story Antonio is driven to tell. Moments and experiences from his life are woven into each of his pieces, whether directly influencing the subjects he chooses, or reflected in the overall look and feel of his works. The vibrant colours characteristic of much of Antonio’s work, are inspired from his Dominican upbringing. Not easily categorized or defined, Antonio’s work continues to evolve alongside the digital technology from which it originates.
Featured Story from the Toronto Arts Council: "Akin Collective responds to local artists’ need for affordable studio space"
Many thanks to our friends at the Toronto Arts Council for profiling Akin in their October 2019 “Featured Story”. Here is an excerpt from the article :
“Entirely artist-run, Akin is overseen by a small team of 11 artists and now offers studio space at nine locations across the city, gradually adding locations over the years as demand for affordable workspace continued to rise.
This past March, Akin partnered with TAC to open REMOTE Gallery, a dedicated programming and exhibition space at 568 Richmond St. W. that provides low-cost space for artists and the public for exhibits and artistic programming. In partnership with Toronto Arts Foundation’s Neighbourhood Arts Network, Akin also offers opportunities for newcomer artists to grow their art practice and professional network through the RBC Space Award….
Given the current economic realities in the city that has seen live-work spaces and other vital venues close, Akin’s team is dedicated to finding ways for artists to continue their practice in a sustainable way.”
You can read more articles about Akin on our Press Page.