Monday, September 27, 2010

Take pART Fundraising Benefit & Some New Portraits

I have really been a bad blogger lately.  It's been crazy getting back into the routine of daily life with kids and all their 6000 activies.  I myself have embarked on a ridiculous new fitness regime which has almost killed me so far.  Whatever ever doesn't kill you...


There are a couple of things I thought I'd write about today.  On Thursday, September 30, 2010 I will be taking part in a large fundraiser put on by the alumnae of Branksome Hall entitled, "Take pART".  The show will be held at Arta Gallery in the Distillery District of Toronto from 6-9pm.  It's a pretty cool premise.  A whole bunch of different artists were asked to create a 10" square gallery canvas in any style/subject they desired.  The paintings were delivered unsigned (signed on the back only) and will hang for the one night in the gallery and will be sold for $100 each.  All proceeds go towards sending kids to Branksome that would not normally be able to afford it.  I am looking forward to the event.  Anyone who knows my work will be able to spot my piece effortlessly.

I have had the privilege of working with an incredible gallerist, Alison Goodwin of The Village Gallery and Art Beyond Walls for the past 1 1/2 years.  Alison has been instrumental in getting lots of media exposure for my paintings (Fashion Television commerical; segment on Breakfast Television; spot on Rogers Daytime TV to name a few).  Ali had the summer of her life this year, getting married to her true love David in Italy over the summer.   I had the amazing opportunity to paint a portrait of the two of them that Ali gave to David for a wedding gift.  Here is that portrait:

Alison & David, July 22, 2010
acrylic on canvas
36" x 30"
commissioned by Alison Goodwin
2010

Not only did Ali and David go to Italy with all of their best friends and family, but they brought their beautiful 3 month old (at the time) Hudson Sophia Hedon with them!  I painted a small portrait of little Hudson for Alison for her birthday this year.

Hudson Sophia Hudson
acrylic on canvas
16" square
2010
gift from artist

I'm starting to feel like I have lots more to say again...if I didn't have the personality of a potato today due to my cold.  Back again soon.  Thanks for reading.

xx
Justine