Painting Series Inspired By Our Underwater World

New Art ii by Deb Chaney (9” x 12”)

Painting Series Inspired By the Underwater World

I was looking back on this small series of paintings I did last year and came to the realization that they were inspired by a couple of things – and both have to do with our incredible oceans and the fascinating world beneath the surface. I experienced 2 ocean-related events in the last few months of 2021, which I’ll get to below.

The Incredible Power of Cold Water Swimming

I feel that my first source of inspiration can be attributed to my friend and fellow artist, Susan Grieg, who I mentioned in a recent blog post last month. She’s the founder of Braid St Studios – which is how we first met – but she’s since become a great friend.

Susan sent me a video of her friend and her cold water swimming during the winter. Real winter – as in November through January – not “almost spring” winter. And they weren’t simply doing a one-time Polar Bear Dip (which is a popular New Year's Day tradition in British Columbia). Susan and her friend go for an icy swim 1 to 3 times a week.

Curious and inspired, I hopped online to search for things like the benefits of cold-water swimming. And to my surprise (or not), I found out how good swimming in cold water is for your health. So, I said to myself – Okay, I’m going to go out and do it.

The next day, still committed to the task, I went for my morning walk and took my bathing suit with me. And I simply started. I was literally dunking myself in the ocean. And during the winter, it was cold(!) and it required a lot of courage to get in the water. But I did. And I would stay in the water, counting out loud, teeth chattering, for 60 long seconds.

But when I got out of the water, I would have this incredible, full-body buzz, and I felt so good afterwards. It was like all of my body heat was rushing to the surface of my skin, leaving me incredibly invigorated. I would feel so motivated and would have such a positive, productive day, that I just continued doing it.

These Little Gems were painted after I started the cold-water swimming, and I feel like this activity is reflected in their aesthetic. If you open your eyes while swimming underwater, these paintings are similar to what you might see.

Inspired By My Octopus Teacher

While octopuses are abundant in the waters off Gabriola and its surrounding islands, I did not encounter one during my cold water swims. The section heading is referring to My Octopus Teacher, a 2020 Netflix film that won the Oscar for Best Documentary last year, in addition to numerous other awards.

The film follows a man named Craig Foster as he begins a routine of cold water swimming every day off the coast of South Africa. Over time, he gets to know the local marine life and comes to develop a friendship – and bond – with a curious octopus. Watching the film, you can’t help but fall in love with the beauty and wonder of the underwater world.

I feel that this film and my own cold water swimming routine are the 2 main inspirations for this small series of paintings.

A Series Within a Series

These 5 paintings are part of my Little Gems Series of paintings, which I’ve mentioned in earlier posts (about other Gems, like Silent Sky and Rocky Mountain). They’re “practice pieces” that I use both as a way to explore new ideas and techniques as well as rehearse old ones. Each painting is unique in its own way and some of them grow beyond being practice pieces to become actual works of art.

Most of my Little Gems measure 9” x 12”, and all of the paintings in this “underwater” series follow that custom. There are 5 paintings in total, and four of them are acrylic on paper while one of them is ink on paper. All of the originals (and their prints) are available for purchase on Saatchi Art, which you can find at the following links:

• New Art i Painting

• New Art ii Painting

• New Art iii Painting

• New Art iv Painting

• New Art v Painting

Similar Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

In addition to the underwater series, you can browse through my collection on Saatchi Art’s online gallery.

Saatchi Art offers multiple options to suit your personal tastes or needs. Prints can be on paper or canvas and are usually available in 4 sizes – to better fit your room. So, even though the original New Art ii Painting is 9” x 12”, your print can be the same size as the original or bigger – at sizes of 15” x 20”, 24” x 32”, or 30” x 40”. You have the further option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image on Saatchi Art should give you an idea of its size and let you see what it looks like on a wall.

Original Painting "Silent Sky" Sold to a Local Artist

Silent Sky by Deb Chaney (9” x 12”)

Selling a painting is always an amazing feeling and I’m really grateful to each and every collector. But it’s the greatest honour when another artist purchases my artwork for their personal collection. It’s just on a whole other level when somebody who knows how to paint themselves chooses to become a collector. Therefore, I’d like to take this opportunity to give a big Thank You to my neighbour, friend, and fellow artist Waheeda Byron.

A Little Bit About the Collector

Waheeda Byron is a watercolour painter based on Gabriola Island. She paints with an informal local art group called Gabriola Palette People, which “was formed many years ago to provide an inclusive and creative art environment where members come together regularly to develop their artistic skills.” They meet once or twice a week, creating art with watercolours, acrylics, oil paints, or mixed media.

Aside from that, she’s currently in the process of painting a series of 20 watercolours for a book that she’s illustrating. The book is a collaboration with a school librarian who grew up in a Sikh family with six kids in East Vancouver. It’s a children’s book that she’s writing and Waheeda is doing the watercolour drawings that are reflecting back on “East Van” life in the 1970s, showing parts of her life and family life growing up.

While I was visiting and having tea with Waheeda, I had the privilege of seeing the progression of these incredible paintings that will be in the book. It’s truly wonderful to get to see this project she’s been working on for the better part of year (at least), while the woman writes the book.

I asked Waheeda why she chose Silent Sky and what she likes (or loves) about it, and she had a few things to say. First, was that she loves the simplicity of it. And then paired with that simplicity is the sense of drama observed in the landscape. She also said that it reminded her of where we live, here on Gabriola Island. She really loves the wet-on-wet technique and how the painting says so much, so simply, in just a few strokes.

About This Painting

Silent Sky is part of my Little Gems Series, which I’ve mentioned in previous posts (such as when a collector bought another one of my Little Gems called Rocky Mountain). I’ve been painting my Little Gems for years and they’re essentially a collection of small paintings I use to try new techniques and test my creativity. Not all of these artistic explorations become part of the collection, but a select few rise above to emerge as real works of art!

The painting is India ink on paper using a wet-on-wet technique, which – just as it sounds – involves using wet paint on top of a layer of wet paint or wet paper. It’s a quite austere black & white painting, which, as noted above, is partly what attracted Waheeda to it. And, like most of my Little Gems, it measures 9” x 12”. 

Similar Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

Silent Sky stands out in the Little Gems series as many of my paintings are acrylic or mixed media, but there are other ink paintings in the collection. Find the Red Dots and Something in the Air are both black India ink on paper, similar to Silent Sky, while Sun Scorched Earth and Roses in the Dust are orange and pink, respectively. You can also find more ink-on-paper paintings by browsing through the complete collection.

Saatchi Art offers multiple options to suit your personal tastes or needs. Prints can be on paper or canvas and are usually available in 4 sizes – to better fit your room. So while the original Silent Sky painting is 9” x 12”, your print can be the same size as the original or bigger – at sizes of 15” x 20”, 24” x 32”, or 30” x 40”. You have the further option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image on Saatchi Art should give you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

Springtime Pop-Up Art Show by Braid St Studios

Focus by Deb Chaney (24” x 24”)

As my current exhibit with Sarah Graeme is underway, it feels like a good time to mention an earlier exhibit from back in the spring. The Braid St Studios Pop Up Art Show took place in April at The Gallery at Queen’s Park in New Westminster. (For those not familiar with the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, “New West” is in the centre of the Greater Vancouver area).

A Resilient Co-Working Space for the Art Community

Before moving to Gabriola Island (and joining its incredible art community!) I was fortunate enough to be part of another wonderful art community. Braid St Studios was located in a 12,000-square-foot industrial heritage building in New Westminster. With a large gallery, event space, and over 70 artists working in 46 studios, it was the largest collaborative art studio outside of Vancouver. 

The founder, owner, and artist behind 100 Braid St Studios is a phenomenal woman named Susan Greig. Her vision for a supportive arts community where visitors could see (and be inspired by) working studio artists was realized in Braid St Studios, which she describes as “an incubator for artists in transition [and] established artists” focused on achieving major career goals.

However, as with almost everywhere, when the pandemic hit, everything shut down. Then on top of that, the developers who owned the warehouse decided to tear it down in order to pursue the Lower Mainland’s favourite pastime – condo development.

Fortunately, Susan didn’t let a global pandemic and the forces of gentrification stand in her way. She’s already established a small gallery in Port Coquitlam and has been creating an online platform to support artists while continuing to look for larger spaces where she can continue hosting art shows, open mic and poetry nights, and other events.

The studio hosts artists working in a wide range of diverse media, which has grown even more diverse since moving online. As Susan posted in June:

“In our original brick and mortar studio, we had resident artists who worked in: oil & acrylic painters, artists who worked in resin, all kinds of textiles, reclaimed wood, charcoal, mixed media, jewellery & metalsmithing, digital art and photography. There were puppet makers, sculptors, musicians, performance artists, writers, acapella singers, songwriters and more.”

In addition to providing studio space for artists, 100 Braid St Studios fosters creativity in numerous ways. These include mentorship, a lecture series on professional development, exposure for artists, social events, fine art classes, and more. For more info on all the ways in which they support artists and the local community at large, check out the studio’s About Us page.

The Braid St Studios Pop-Up Art Show

The Braid St Studios Pop Up Art Show was held April 22-24, 2022 at The Gallery at Queen’s Park, which is operated by The Arts Council of New Westminster. 

The show’s 3 featured artists were Susan, Michael King, and Iris Mes Low. Other artists included me, Melissa Burgher, Tony Durke, Steven Elford, Omanie Elias, Fran Friesen, Unky Kim, William Liao, Dizz McGruber, Monica Moscoso, and Judy Villett.

One of Susan’s Instagram posts from the event sums up not only the ethos behind Braid St Studios but also the importance of art and a sense of community:

“So many people have come in to visit and the support from the broader New West community has brought me to tears many times. There have been stories I’ve never heard before-about relationships and friendships that have developed because of our arts community and there have been stories of the many struggles we’ve all had thru COVID. I’ve been reminded time and again of the core purpose of Braid St since its inception-to help artists live lives of courage in harmony with their values…to chart their own unique path, to support them to grow, to provide a warm and nurturing space.”

My Artwork in the Pop-Up Art Show

Susan kindly featured one of my paintings at the show. The painting is called Focus and is conceptually about how important focus is to healing and mental wellness. 

It’s a 24” x 24” acrylic on canvas and the original is for sale through Van Dop Gallery. You can find this painting (and others) in the online gallery, then click the link at the bottom of the page to email the gallerist, Trudy Van Dop.

You can see Focus and many other pieces on display in photos from the exhibit in the slideshow below.

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Susan Grieg with Ch'ich'iyúy Elxwíkn The Sisters - The Lions at Night, acrylic on canvas 30” x 24”.

Braid St Studios Exhibit

West End (36” x 24”) by featured artist Iris Mes Low displayed prominently on its own wall.

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Braid St Studios Exhibit

Prints and Other Original Artwork for Sale

Prints of Focus as well as a much larger collection of my artwork – both originals and prints – are for sale online at Saatchi Art.

Saatchi Art has a range of options to fit your individual preferences and needs. You can choose to have your prints on paper or canvas, and most are available in 4 sizes to fit any room. There is also an option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

My Art Exhibit With Sarah Graeme: “Moving; Through, Towards, Within.”

Deb Chaney in Free Spirit Gallery

My art exhibit with Sarah Graeme, which I mentioned in this earlier post, is off to a wonderful start. We had our opening event at Gabriola Island’s Free Spirit Gallery on Friday evening.

The Power of Collaboration

It’s been really incredible to meet Sarah and collaborate with such a young artist – and yet she’s so accomplished. She’s so focused and has won grants and awards, and has come so far so quickly, so it’s been a truly incredible experience.

Sarah and I have taken quite different paths in our art careers. I didn’t go to art school (she did) and I’ve never won a grant (she has). While I’m still kind of figuring it out, her work is so cohesive and clear, and she knows what she’s creating and why.

To be honest, I’ve always felt kind of on the “outside” of the art world. So the feeling I get from collaborating and doing a show with Sarah has given me a sense of being “inside” the art world. And in addition to that feeling of inclusiveness, one of the greatest benefits of collaborations is that you get to up your game when you work with other artists, and I love that aspect of it.

A Special Appreciation for the Gallerist

My collaboration with Sarah was arranged by Catherine Hallam, the owner of Free Spirit Gallery, and I’d just like to say how grateful I am to her. She has gone above and beyond anyone that I’ve ever worked with in terms of collaboration. 

The opening was amazing. Everyone in attendance kept saying how beautiful it looked. One comment I heard repeatedly was that it felt like light — as though energy was emitting from the walls.

There was wine — and spritzers and cherries and cheese — and it was all so tastefully done. Every time someone arrived and I could catch a few words of Catherine talking about me, I just felt so appreciated and understood and supported. It was all done in such a professional, authentic, and grounded way. There was nothing pretentious about it or anyone in attendance, and it all felt just so genuine.

I also got to learn about Catherine’s journey as an artist and gallery owner, so it’s been wonderful getting to know her and having a deeper appreciation for who she is and what she’s doing.

Catherine’s assistant Lou was also there, and she was taking photos. She took an amazing shot of my parents and me (it was amazing having them there!), as well as a pic of me with my really good friend Denise, who I was thrilled to have there.

A lot of people stopped by that, up until that point, I’d only known over the internet and never met in person. One of the other great things about having an opening is that you get to meet people face-to-face and foster these real-life connections.

Selling That First Painting

Of course, one of the purposes of an exhibit is to find a home for the artist’s work. And selling that first painting is always really exciting, and a special feeling that makes me feel truly supported.

My painting The Gold Is Deep Within was my first piece to be sold at the show. It was purchased by a collector who’s been such a support to me and my career, and I’ll write up a full blog post about her and her selection in the near future.

A Guestbook of Affirmations

Catherine put out a book for people to sign and write comments. It is full of so many kind comments about my artwork and what they felt when viewing it and what they saw in each painting. It’s fascinating to hear people’s interpretations and how deeply they understood my work — so much so, that I feel I’m on the right track. It’s such an affirmation to me as an artist and it encourages me to continue.

Exhibit Catalogue, Photos, and Video

To see all the pieces I’ve got on display in the digital catalogue. Just click the big button below to download the PDF.

For some photos from the exhibit, scroll through the slideshow below. And beneath that is a short walkthrough video of my section of the the exhibit.

Here is a short video moving; through, towards, within.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

Prints of some of the pieces in the show are available in my online gallery at Saatchi Art.

Saatchi Art has a range of options to fit your individual preferences and needs. You can choose to have your prints on paper or canvas, and most are available in 4 sizes to fit any room. There is also an option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

My Interview on "Conversations Worth Having" with Adrian Starks and Michelle Falcone

Deb Chaney at work in her studio

I was interviewed by Adrian Starks and Michelle Falcone back in May, for their show Conversations Worth Having. It took place on Facebook Live and a recording of the video is available on their Facebook page.

Who are Adrian Starks and Michelle Falcone?

My art is inspired by my own healing and personal journey, and both Adrian and Michelle share this passion for personal growth.

Adrian Starks is a motivational speaker, author, and personal growth trainer based in Seattle. He founded Champion Up with the goal of helping people recognize and realize their own power and courage for personal change. He focuses on managing mental health and encouraging positive growth and success and he certainly has the testimonials to back him up.

“I love seeing people simply become better and happier human beings by creating fulfilling realities from their ideas or visions.”

— Adrian Starks

Michelle Falcone is a Vancouver-based entrepreneur and certified life coach who is committed to “helping those she works with to obtain a life full of passion and peace.” She offers coaching services, speaking engagements, and programs & retreats – including an enthralling-looking small group retreat called Sailboat Coaching.   

In addition to being incredibly passionate about mental health, Michelle is an extraordinary supporter of the arts and artists. She is currently working with another artist and musician on developing a program that supports youth and their mental health. Michelle’s testimonials speak for themselves as well.

Source: Conversations Worth Having

The Honour of Being a Conversation Worth Having

It’s certainly a compliment and honour to be considered the focal point of a “conversation worth having”, and I’d like to extend my thanks and appreciation to Adrian and Michelle for their time and interest.

Early in the interview, I reflect on the first series I painted 20 years ago. It consisted of 16 paintings – and a lot of red. I recalled a good friend of mine looking at the paintings and saying how angry they looked. And I look back now with my gained wisdom and realize how great it was that I could move from depression to anxiety to anger. I wasn’t conscious of it then, but I knew I was frustrated and had all this emotion, and I could turn it into creation. And that was really the beginning of art being a key component to my healing journey as well as my own transformational journey.

The main focus of the interview turns to the Drishti Paintings Series that I’m currently working on – but haven’t revealed too much about. I’ve been hunkered down in my creative cave, focused on creating these large, very layered and meaningful works of art, and that was the crux of what we discussed. We talk about the 3 concepts guiding my creation of these paintings – how they are the inspiration behind the Drishti Paintings as well as the inspiration for my own personal journey to find mental wellness.

I’ve alluded to the Drishti Series online, but the artwork will be fully revealed during Gabriola Island’s (incredible) Thanksgiving Studio Tour, which takes place on October 8-10th.

Check out the Conversations Worth Having Facebook page for past episodes and more about the program and its inspiring hosts.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

This section usually has links to where you can buy the original or prints of the painting mentioned in the post. But in this case, as mentioned above, the Drishti Paintings Series is still in process and won’t be revealed until the island’s studio tour in October.

However, you can browse through my collection at Saatchi Art’s online gallery. 

Saatchi Art offers multiple options to suit your personal tastes or needs. Prints can be on paper or canvas and are typically available in 4 sizes to best fit your room. You can also choose to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall. But take it one step further with the “View in My Room” tool that lets you see what it looks like on your wall.

Behind the scenes in the studio - the process of creating DP # 1

Drishti Painting # 1
36" x 48" x 1.5" Mixed Media on Canvas

The word drishti comes from the Sanskrit word and denotes a focal point. In yoga class when you are holding a challenging pose, to help you balance, your instructor will guide you to find a drishti: a place to hold your gaze that will in turn help you to hold steady.

The paintings in this new series are visual creations uniquely and specifically for you to remind of the strength and balance that always exists within yourself.

DP #1 can be found at the AV Museum in Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada until the end of September 2022.⁠

and online at Saatchi Online Gallery:
https://www.saatchiart.com/art/Painting-Drishti-Painting-1/499285/9464433/view

I learned a lot from creating this first painting in the series, and I have to say that I'll be switching directions with the next paintings and exploring these ideas from different angles.⁠
⁠
Stay tuned... the painting journey continues :-) ⁠

My Upcoming Art Exhibit with Sarah Graeme

I am thrilled to announce my collaborative art exhibit with Sarah Graeme. Based across the way on Vancouver Island, Sarah is a ceramic artist who uses weaving and basketry techniques to combine plant fibers with ceramic forms. I’m a huge fan of her work and who she is as a person, so I’m very excited about our upcoming show.

The exhibit is being held at the Free Spirit Gallery here on Gabriola Island, and it runs from August 16 through to September 5. The official opening night event is Friday, August 19 from 6 to 8 PM.

An “Interview” with the Gallerist

Free Spirit Gallery Studio & Shop was established last fall by Catherine Hallam. It’s an incredible addition to the island’s art community, encouraging and enabling local artists and artisans to showcase their work. You can see its exhibition schedule for the year on the gallery’s website.

A full year of exhibits is certainly a testament to Catherine’s passion for and commitment to the arts — not to mention her organizational skills! Here are some of the insightful questions that Catherine asked me about the artwork I’m exhibiting in this show.

What ideas, concepts, and experiences does the body of work communicate?

This body of work communicates a visual footprint of my spiritual and healing journey over the past 10 years. The journey of creating each painting here on display taught me something important that has helped me to re-connect and align with my authentic self. Often the painting’s title reveals the message I received and what I learned in its creation. The work imbues a healing frequency, each painting emanating the energetic stamp of the learnings and healing I received from its creation.

What inspirations or traditions guided or influence this body of work?

Before I begin painting, my inspiration and tradition are in my healing practice to go within via meditation, silent time in nature, and journal writing. When I begin to work, I am guided by my intuition and let the painting guide and lead me as I add and take away layers. Knowing that the process and journey of creation is the greatest gift of being an artist. Trusting the finished piece will reveal herself.

How are the methods or techniques you use important to this body of work? Tell us how, or what, the choice of medium or process contributes to this work.

There are a lot of layers in these paintings and also the unique aspect of sand added as texture. I think I use a lot of thick mediums and mixed media because it's just simply so darn fun playing around with the colours and textures. When I look back on this work I also think these paintings are a lot like each of us in the world, that is, we come in as a baby pure innocent naturally happy, and excited about life. 

Then things happen, beliefs are formed, and occurrences and incidences happen and shape us. We grow, evolve, and learn while trying to figure out this thing called Life. For those of us on a conscious healing journey, I feel part of that process and journey of re-claiming our authenticity is taking off some of the layers we never really wanted, and getting back to our real selves. This is what I’ve been up to for the past couple of decades and that is what I see when I look at my work. As for the sand elements, well, I’m always going back to nature to re-calibrate and nourish myself… I just can’t help myself but to add it into these pieces!

Exhibit Statement for Moving; Through, Towards, Within

The title of Sarah’s and my collaborative art exhibit is Moving; Through, Towards, Within. Our exhibit statement encapsulates our individual approaches to – and what we aim to achieve with – our artwork. It follows below:

When faced with uncertainty we can either become fixed, paralyzed by the unknown, or move; through, towards, within.

Through Deb Chaney’s abstract, ethereal paintings, she explores the narratives of her own personal healing journey. Through the process and ongoing practice of painting, Deb Chaney explores themes of authenticity, truth, and connection.

Gathered on plinths, Sarah Graeme’s woven ceramic vessels emanate a sense of delicate balance. In her work, Sarah combines daylily fibers from her garden and smoke-fired ceramic vessels to create work that navigates the uncertainty and precarity she feels in our current environmental and social climate.

Both artists’ work use the process of creating to work through and into the unknown, uncertain, and ambiguous expanse in an attempt to navigate questions without definitive answers.

How do we be in a better relationship with ourselves, each other, and the world around us?

Moving into the expanse of discomfort, through, towards, within.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

Original paintings on display at the show can be purchased through Free Spirit Gallery. Contact the gallery owner Catherine Hallam via email or phone at (250) 247-0197. Or, if you’re fortunate enough to be on Gabriola Island, stop by the gallery at 590 North Road.

Prints of some of the pieces in the show are available in my online gallery at Saatchi Art.

Saatchi Art has a range of options to fit your individual preferences and needs. You can choose to have your prints on paper or canvas, and most are available in 4 sizes to fit any room. There is also an option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

Donating Art for Gabriola Island's Annual Salmon BBQ Auction

Gabriola Island by Deb Chaney (9” x 12”)

I’ve donated a painting to the indispensable Gabriola Island Community Hall to be auctioned off at its annual fundraiser. The painting is called Gabriola Island and I and some other island artists were mentioned in our local paper, the Gabriola Sounder.

The 67th Annual Gabriola Community Hall Salmon BBQ

Our local community centre – the Gabriola Island Community Hall – is holding its 67th Annual Salmon BBQ on Saturday, August 13. The festivities include the salmon BBQ, as well as a raffle, live music, activities for kids, and the silent auction. There’s a beer & cider garden for the adults and play area for the kiddos.

The event starts at 4pm on Saturday and goes until 8pm. Tickets are just $20 for a salmon dinner with homemade salads, buns, watermelon, and more. They’re available at Colleen’s (our local home and fashion store), the Community Hall’s website, and at the event.

Source: Gabriola Island Community Hall

Gabriola Artists and Performers Contributing to the Event

Gabriola Island’s community is an incredible supporter of its artists and artisans. And as a way of giving back and supporting the seat of this small, close-knit populace, local artists, artisans, and businesses have donated their goods or services to the fundraiser’s raffle and silent auction.

The painting I’ve donated is called Gabriola Island. It’s a 9” x 12” x 1.5” original mixed media piece on wood panel. I painted it years ago when I’d come to Gabriola Island on a retreat. Whenever I go away on a personal retreat, I have my beloved old leather satchel full of the art supplies needed to create small paintings. And this is one of the paintings to come from that. The ground layer of this painting is an old nautical map of the Gulf Islands surrounding the Salish Sea, with the text for Gabriola Island visible.

In addition to myself, other artists featured at the auction include Tammy Hugeon and Carolyn Bell.

Tammy Hugeon is a painter and glass artist “creating wild & soulful work” on the island. She’s a self-taught artist and was the BC Glass Art Award winner – twice! Her colourful, nature-inspired work includes mixed media paintings and large-scale sculptures of glass, steel, and wood. You can visit Tammy’s website to learn more about her and her work.

Carolyn Bell is a painter, writer, musician – and more! – based on the island. Her body of work includes a “heroic women” series of abstract paintings of Margaret Artwood, Julia Child, Ruth Bader Ginsburg styled as religious icons. You can see some of Carolyn’s work on her Facebook page, although the most recent update is from 2018.

The live music stage is set to include performances by Paul Gellman, Brooke Gray Harris, Sarah Osborne, Tom MacLachlan, Cursing Cousins, John Gresham and Friends, and Snake Island Railroad.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

This section usually has links to where you can buy the original or prints of the painting mentioned in the post. But seeing as my painting Gabriola Island is up for auction in 2 weeks, the original is only available to the highest bidder.

However, you can order prints of Gabriola Island on Saatchi Art or find another original painting in my collection on Saatchi Art’s online gallery. 

Saatchi Art offers multiple options to suit your personal tastes or needs. Prints can be on paper or canvas and are typically available in 4 sizes to best fit your room. You can also choose to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall. But take it one step further with the “View in My Room” tool that lets you see what it looks like on your wall.

Living the Artist Life on Gabriola Island

I am very fortunate to live on a small island called Gabriola located on the west coast near Vancouver, BC, Canada that is incredibly supportive and focussed on the arts.

There are musicians, theatre people and painters galore as well as an incredible artist council organization offering exhibit space, small supportive grants, and so much more.

Being my first year living here I have experienced so many magical moments of support and creative joy, I just had to share a few!

I remember...

In the fall walking down the street and my neighbours Gary & Donna, playwrights and actors, checking on with me about the Canada Art Council grant I was writing. Thank you for cheering me on!

Being connect with another abstract painter in my neighbour via the arts council whereby she kindly leant me her canvas stretcher. Elsa's show goes up this Friday at Free Spirit - I had a sneak peak and her work is PHENOMENAL.

And now this summer, Free Spirit, our local art gallery very generously offering me a spot in a two person collaborative exhibit (Aug 16- Sept 6) with a phenomenal potter Sarah Graeme whom I got to meet last week when she came to visit my home. Writing our joint artist statement together was a magical experience I will treasure always.

I feel inspired, a deep sense of belonging, and profound gratitude for completely following my heart and moving here with no idea what The Universe had in store for me ! ! !
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you !

Artist Residencies on Gabriola Island: https://akimbo.ca/.../kasahara-gabriola-trust-artist.../
Free Spirit Gallery on Gabriola Island: https://freespiritstudio.ca/
Tourist website for where I live: https://hellogabriola.ca/tourist-directory/arts/

(video was taken at Drumbeg Park, Gabriola Island, BC, Canada)

My “68 Secrets” Illustrated Card Deck is Available in 3 Brick & Mortar Stores

68 Secrets of an Illuminated Artist on display at Page’s L’IL Market in Silva Bay

Last year I wrote and self-published a card deck of affirmations called The 68 Secrets of an Illuminated Artist: How to Stay Inspired Despite Any Obstacle. The cards were initially available through a wonderful print-on-demand website called The Game Crafter, but they are now for sale in 3 brick & mortar stores.

The Inspiration for Creating Affirmation Cards

The creation of this affirmation card deck was a 10-year project in that it is the culmination of a decade of introspective journaling. Over the course of those 10 years, I’d written notes in my journals reflecting on how – despite raising my daughter on my own and enduring my own periods of mental unwellness – I was able to keep painting art, teaching workshops, and exhibiting my artwork. 

I was able to continue working toward my goals as an artist even though there were so many challenges and obstacles along the way.

Wanting to share what I’d learned and realized, I went back through my journals and picked out the 68 most prevalent inspirations, ideas, and lessons that I felt really supported me in staying creative.

With those 68 insights in hand, I collaborated with a retired English teacher in Oregon and she helped me edit and organize them into these wonderful succinct cards with the main caption and a descriptor below it.

For the second phase of the project, this past year I went through the process of selecting 68 original abstract art pieces to go behind the captions. Each piece of artwork was very consciously chosen to correspond to the captions and the message each card imparts. There are some incredible stories and connections, and it’s really fun to see how the art is supporting the words.

It’s been a long-term project and is something I’m so proud of and I’m very excited to see it go out into the world. So, seeing it move from online-only into tangible, real-world stores is quite the thrill.

Where to Buy The 68 Secrets of an Illuminated Artist

The first store is Iron Oxide Art Supplies, which is just a quick ferry ride away in Nanaimo, British Columbia. They’re located in the gorgeous historic Old Firehall Building and carry a fantastic selection of art supplies, from paints to canvas to clays, and everything in between.

The second store is Li’l Market at Page’s Resort and Marina, here on Gabriola Island. It’s located in the serene Silva Bay, at the southeast end of the island. what began as a fish camp and store in the 1940s evolved into a full-service resort. They are steadfast supporters of the island’s creative community, boasting over 400 titles written, illustrated, or published by Gabriolans.

The third store is the shop in Free Spirit Gallery Studio & Shop, also on Gabriola Island, which I mentioned in a blog post earlier this month. They opened just near the end of last year and are a wonderful addition to the community, showcasing both established and emerging artists from the island.

If you don’t live in the area, you can also find the cards online at The Game Crafter. They are a Wisconsin-based company that makes board games and card decks on-demand, with an online store and an active online community of creatives.

Source: Page’s Resort

What Others Have to Say About My Illustrated Affirmations

Hearing from people about what they like or appreciate about a piece of work is always satisfying and encouraging for an artist – or anyone, for that matter. So reading the positive comments about The 68 Secrets of an Illuminated Artist on The Game Crafter’s online shop was truly touching and I’m thrilled to share some of them here. 

“Reading a card is a lovely, thought-provoking way to start the day.”

— Brindle

“A wonderful way to keep going when feeling stuck.”

— Kamila

“Well-crafted words of wisdom for your cosmic heart and creative soul.”

— Laterina S.

“I relate to every card in this deck and love the transformative power they hold.”

— Tonya T.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

Most of the artwork I chose for the cards in The 68 Secrets of an Illuminated Artist are available for purchase – either the original artwork, or a print, or both – online at Saatchi Art.

Saatchi Art has a range of options to fit your individual preferences and needs. You can choose to have your prints on paper or canvas, and most are available in 4 sizes to fit any room. There is also an option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

Gabriola Arts Council’s Featured Art for June Included My ‘Fragments of Life’ Painting

Fragments of Life #19 by Deb Chaney (23” x 30”)

A couple of months ago I received a pleasant surprise in my inbox. It was an email from the Gabriola Arts Council letting me know that another artist had selected my artwork for June’s Featured Art section on their website. They chose one of my paintings that’s posted on the GAC’s website — a mixed media painting called Fragments of Life #19.

Monthly Featured Artwork Curated by Artists

Each month the Gabriola Arts Council asks one of their member artists to help them curate artwork from the 26 categories in their online art catalogue. The six selected works — they could be paintings, pottery, clothing, anything — are then displayed prominently on the front page of the GAC website under the Featured Art banner.

For the month of June 2022, my painting was selected along with 5 other beautiful pieces that represent the diverse range of styles, mediums, and art forms found on Gabriola Island. To give you an idea of this diversity, the other works included a hand-knit sweater by Susan Hudson, a stunning stained glass panel by Jane Ferland, a stoneware vase by Graham Sheehan, and a pine needles basket by Marylyn Beaubien. The only other painting was the gorgeous Tea Stained Humpback 2 by Jade Krupa.

Some of the other works can be purchased directly through the GAC website, while some require you to contact the artist directly about pricing.

Source: The Arts on Gabriola (GAC)

A Special Appreciation to the Artist

The artist who chose my painting for June’s Featured Art is Zulis Yalte. She’s a multimedia and cross-disciplinary artist who works in stone, wood, clay, mixed media sculpture, painting, photography, and more. 

When Zulis presented her selections to the GAC, she had this to say about my artwork:

“Deb illustrates the paradox of the light/dark, strength/fragility, and all in between in life with her intuitive use of mark-making, form, and colour.”

— Zulis Yalte

I was touched by how well Zulis captured the essence of my artwork. And I want to thank her for putting such care and thought into choosing to include my painting. It’s always appreciated when somebody lets an artist know which piece they like – and why they like it. But I feel that Zulis’ write-up even goes beyond that as she really digs what I’m doing from a creative standpoint.

You can learn more about Zulis and see more of her artwork on the GAC website or on her website.

A Truly Incredible Art Organization

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Gabriola Arts Council. What they are and do is far beyond any art organization I’ve encountered in my 20 years of being a professional artist. They are highly organized and professional and offer such an amazing level of support. With so many unique tools and programs in place, they are a truly special operation.

A fantastic feature on the GAC’s website is the creative directory, which allows people to “meet the artists of this unique and beautiful island.” With 90+ artists to choose from, I highly recommend clicking around and taking a digital stroll through the directory.

About My Painting ‘Fragments of Life #19’

This piece is part of my Fragments of Life series – which I discussed in a bit more detail in this post a couple of weeks ago – so it represents another lesson from my spiritual journey.

Fragments of Life #19 measures 23” x 30” x 1.5”. The artwork is an acrylic mixed media painting on 300 lb Arches Coldpress Watercolour Paper. It is mounted on a custom-made wood panel, wired, varnished, and ready to hang.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

The original artwork can be purchased through the Gabriola Arts Council’s website.

You can also buy prints of Fragments of Life #19 online at Saatchi Art. 

Saatchi Art has a range of options to fit everyone’s individual preferences. You can choose to have your prints on paper or canvas, and most are available in 4 sizes to fit any room. There is also an option to have it framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

CONTRACT POSITION AVAILABLE - Art rental and licensing marketing and sales manager

Seeking motivated individual who would love to connect with set decorators, directors, TV & film art department heads, interior designers and art consultants on behalf of a working abstract artist.

You ideally already have, or are ready and willing to create connections in the film and art industry. It would be a strong advantage for your to understand & be connected with interior designers and art consultants and understand how they work.

For Example, If you live in “Hollywood North" the Vancouver, BC,Canada region, you will be familiar with AIETSE, BCCFU and Creative BC and have the know-how to access the right people in TV/Film production that are currently filming and may be looking for art. This could be expanded to LA and Bollywood.

Your job will be to establish meaningful connections with the right people who rent original abstract artwork and/or license digital artwork images for their purposes. You’ll share samples of work available for their purposes. You will follow up systematically. You’ll keep organized records of your work. Your end goal is to create sound long term working relationships with the right people and to initiate the creation of a fiscal contract between the licensor and the artist. You would together at first with the artist to create a replicable system for these tasks so your progress could be seen and understood easily, the independently with agreed upon touch base and updates.

You work is a success when the artist is offered a contract for art rental or digital image art licensing.

Your personable nature, professionalism and discretion is of the utmost importance as in all your dealings, you will be representing the artist, her work and reputation. As well, you must truly appreciate and at least like (love would be better!) the artwork being offered. This is more important that what you know (experience) or who you know, as those things can be developed, taught and learned with the right attitude, desire and time. Uplifting, inspiring and positive people will be at the top of the list for this position as good energy goes far.

This is a contract job with two payout options for you: Option One is that you work for an agreed upon percentage of the contract achieved by your efforts. Option two is you work for an agreed upon hourly wage for a set number of hours each week or month.

I am a contemporary abstract artist with over 20 years experience creating, exhibiting, selling and licensing my work. I currently have over 600 high resolution images of my abstract work available for licensing and also a large inventory of small, medium and large format original works available and ready to rent. I've licensed to Rainmaker films and recently to a Hulu film and a Netflix TV series.

You can view samples of my portfolio here:

Samples of Artwork for Rent - https://www.canva.com/design/DAE9DGUy1s8/_wtSKKvPoSU_51PsROGF4Q/view?utm_content=DAE9DGUy1s8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=homepage_design_menu

Samples of Artwork to License - https://www.canva.com/design/DAE9DIjwmc0/GJP6VtQrAFRqgM6Wpuf47Q/view?utm_content=DAE9DIjwmc0&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=homepage_design_menu

Applications please email info@debchaney.com

Tell me why you want to do this work, why you’d be great at it, and anything else that would be relevant

In putting your name at the top of the list. Thank you!

Original Painting ‘Clearing Fear’ Featured in the Upcoming Netflix Series The Imperfects

Clearing Fear by Deb Chaney

As I mentioned in a post back in March, Hulu rented 5 of my original paintings for their new horror movie Fresh, starring Daisy Edgar Jones and Sebastian Stan. My mixed media painting Subtle Shift was the first of my pieces to be featured on the show, and I’ll share the others as they appear. 

However, this is not an update on Fresh – but it’s the result of my artwork being in the show. Hulu renting my artwork for its TV series led directly to my abstract paintings being featured on Netflix’s new show, The Imperfects.

The sci-fi drama stars Canadian actress Italia Ricci as Dr. Sydney Burke and Vancouver native Rhianna Jagpal as Abbi Singh. It was mainly filmed in Vancouver, which you may know is often referred to as “Hollywood North” due to all the movies and shows filmed there.

The synopsis reads:

After an experimental gene therapy turns them into monsters, three twenty-somethings band together to hunt down the scientist responsible and force him to make them human again.

Here’s the official Netflix teaser. But be warned, it’s not for the faint of heart – the trailer has profanity and a fair amount of blood and violence. Netflix has given it a TV-MA rating for language, violence, and gore, so it’s not really my taste.

How My Artwork Went From Hulu to Netflix

Source: Netflix

One of the art directors working on Fresh was a wonderful woman named Sarah. She enjoyed working with me and complimented me on my professionalism and how I replied to them quickly and got them what they needed without delay. 

The film and TV industry has a really quick turnaround, with people often needing things “yesterday”. Fortunately, I was aware of this beforehand as my daughter had done some extra work when she was younger, so I’d been on film sets and had a sense of how things worked a little bit. The experience helped me work with the industry and understand what its incredibly hard-working people are coping with.

After Fresh wrapped filming, Sarah moved onto another production. Soon afterward, she gave me a call to say that she’d enjoyed working with me and that she was excited about my art. In fact, she’d printed out most of my portfolio from Saatchi Online Gallery so everyone working on the art set of The Imperfects could choose their favourite paintings.

I was so flattered and excited and grateful for the callback.

Instead of renting my original work – as was done for the Hulu movie – Netflix licensed high-resolution digital images of my paintings. (I think they licensed somewhere between 20 to 30 paintings.) They then printed them onto canvas with a special giclée printer on set.

It’s a good thing they didn’t use my original artwork, because there’s a scene where one of the lead characters punches through one of my paintings. The scene went through multiple retakes, so they kept printing out my painting over and over again. I’m fairly certain the painting in question is New Laylines To Heal The Earth. The original is available for purchase – just promise you won’t put your fist through it. :)

About the Artwork in The Imperfects

Source: Netflix

Even though The Imperfects first season hasn’t been released by Netflix yet, one of my paintings already appears in the trailer! You can see it 40 seconds into the trailer hanging above the fireplace. (It’s mounted sideways – but it’s still wonderful to see it there!) :)

The painting is called Clearing Fear and was painted in 2019. It is acrylic mixed media on canvas and measures 91.4 x 122 cm (36”x48”) and is currently available to rent or purchase via the Surrey Art Gallery Sales and Rentals program.

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

The original painting of Clearing Fear is available to purchase or rent from the Surrey Art Gallery Sales and Rentals program.

Prints of Clearing Fear are also available on Saatchi Art. You can choose the size, material, and framing to suit your personal taste. Prints come in 4 sizes, on paper or canvas, and you add a frame of white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image places the artwork on a wall to give you a sense of its size and how it looks in a room.

New Laylines To Heal The Earth – the original or print – is also available for purchase on Saatchi Art.

My Painting ‘Keep it Real’ is Featured at Free Spirit Art Gallery on Gabriola Island

Keep it Real by Deb Chaney

I am thrilled to announce that my artwork is now featured in the Free Spirit Art Gallery here on beautiful Gabriola Island, British Columbia, Canada. It’s truly an honour and pleasure to be part of this gallery and artist community. I’d like to take this opportunity to share a bit more about Free Spirit Gallery, the woman behind it, and my first piece of artwork featured there.

The Importance of Art Galleries and the Free Spirit Gallery on Gabriola Island

A gallery is more than just a shop with art on its walls. Beyond displaying artwork, it is a place for people to interact – to inquire, collaborate, and get inspired. And everyone I’ve talked with is excited to have a genuine and professional brick & mortar gallery on the island. 

The Free Spirit Studio Gallery & Shop was established last November by a phenomenal woman named Catherine Hallam. She has 20+ years of experience teaching art & design and has been on the island for nearly 10 years. By showcasing the work of emerging and established local artists and artisans, Catherine aims to provide a mutually beneficial platform to bring artists and collectors together.

The Free Spirit Shop is a retail space for local artisans to display and sell their handmade works. The Free Spirit Studio section – launched a couple of months ago – is a space where artists can conduct small workshops and classes for kids and adults. She’s got 2 printmaking workshops scheduled for July, but visit the studio’s webpage for up-to-date information.

By rotating solo exhibits, Catherine features one or two artists each month on the back wall – which I think is a wonderful idea. Having your work featured is an empowering experience for an artist. You can see the exhibition schedule for the whole year on the website.

There are so many amazing Gabriola artists to be represented. The gallery is a special, beautiful place, and it’s a privilege and pleasure to be a part of it specifically, and the community as a whole.

About My Painting ‘Keep it Real’ on Display at Free Spirit Art Gallery

The painting I have on display is called Keep it Real, and it’s part of my Fragments of Life series.

The Fragments of Life series is about how we often morph and fragment ourselves to survive the challenges and trauma we experience growing up. We become people we are not – and do what we have to – in order to meet our needs. And the series is a healing journey about reclaiming those lost parts of ourselves, our fragments.

Each painting in the series represents a lesson from my spiritual journey. The painting process always helps me stay in the present moment – keeping with what’s real – and embracing, accepting, and loving it. We do this with the knowledge that we have the power and capacity to transform into the next version of ourselves.

The painting is an acrylic mixed media collage on 300-pound cold press watercolour paper mounted on wood panel, and it measures 58.4 x 76.2 x 2.5 cm (23 x 30 x 1.5 inches).

Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

The original painting of Keep it Real is currently available for purchase from Free Spirit Gallery Please email info@freespiritstudio.ca or phone the gallery at (250) 247-0197 to secure the original for your collection. 

You can also purchase giclee and fine art prints from Saatchi Art.

When it comes to prints, Saatchi Art offers multiple options to suit your personal tastes or needs. Prints can be on paper or canvas and are usually available in 4 sizes – to better fit your room. You can also choose to have your unique art piece framed in white, black, or natural wood.

The “View In A Room” image gives you an idea of its size and lets you see what it looks like on a wall.

Original Painting “Rocky Mountain” Sold and Shipped to Seattle

Rocky Mountain by Deb Chaney (11” x 15”)

My original painting, Rocky Mountain, recently sold in April, and I would like to extend a deeply appreciative thank you to K. Robertson in Seattle for buying this original “little gem” mixed media work. It truly is a unique piece in my collection and I hope it is a welcome and treasured addition to yours.

The Power of Buying (and Selling) Art

When a patron buys original artwork, it has a profound impact on my career as an artist that goes far beyond the monetary. First and foremost, knowing that my art is connecting with someone, fuels my creativity and fosters inspiration. So your support means the world to me.

I remember the day I became an art collector. It was a Wednesday in December of 2007, and the painting was an Untitled piece by Houston-based artist Michelle Y. Williams. I was thrilled. So thrilled that I wrote about it here while reflecting on why people buy art.

I listed off a number of reasons for why I bought the painting, including everything from the satisfaction of supporting an artist achieve their dreams to the obvious aesthetic reason of adding beauty to my home. Just as (or more) importantly, it cultivated a deeper feeling of connection to both the artist and the gallery.

And what I wrote 15 years ago, still stands today. I would LOVE to hear from art collectors about why you chose a certain piece of artwork or what buying art means to you.

About This Artwork

Rocky Mountain is an essential part of my Little Gems Series, which is a collection of small, one-of-a-kind mixed media abstract paintings. I’ve been doing the series for years, using it as an avenue for technique exploration and a means of testing my creativity. Beginning as demos or projects in one of my workshops, a chosen few emerge to become real paintings!

At 11” x 15”, Rocky Mountain is a couple of inches longer and wider than most works in the series, which are typically 9” x 12”. The painting is a mixed media collage on paper.

Similar Original Artwork and Prints for Sale

I usually like to suggest a similar original artwork to look at, but Rocky Mountain is such a unique piece, that search proved to be a challenge. However, you can purchase a high-quality print of the painting here at Saatchi Art. 

You can choose to have the print on paper or canvas and even have it sent to you already framed. And one of the great things about prints is that you have a choice of sizes–meaning you can get Rocky Mountain all the way up to 30” x 40”.

You can look at more paintings in the Little Gems Series on Saatchi Art. There are many original paintings available for purchase to add to your art collection. They’ve even got a “View in My Room” tool that lets you see how each piece of artwork will fit into your home.

Vancouver Sun Saturday Edition Newspaper Art Installation Write Up & Feature

Thank you so much for my friend and art collector Leigh Hodges who kindly mailed me this newspaper copy of the Vancouver Sun article by Rebecca Keillor featuring my West Coast Abstracts public art installation in North Vancouver May7,2022. It was a pleasure to read and understand further one of the key reasons Rocky Seith, CEO of Adera Developments chose my proposal: A positive attitude! Thank you for acknowledging this, I really appreciate being seen and feel acknowledged and respect. This means a lot to me, thank you.

Take it Away XIII Painting (c) Deb Chaney Original Painting, collage on Paper Size: 15 W x 11 H x 0.1 D in

The four original paintings for this installation were inspired by the ephemeral beauty of walking along the river through Lynn Valley in North Vancouver ‘Take it Away I, II, III & IV’ and were gifted to developers to be featured in their head office. That said, for the photo shoot and process of putting together the final documentation of the project I painted several more paintings to show the layers and process behind the mixed media works. Several of these paintings are available for your collection and can be purchased via Saatchi Online Gallery. You can click the Saatchi gallery link here or contact the artist directly info@debchaney.com to acquire one of these beautiful original mixed media paintings for your collection.

Finishing Touches Now In Place for 'West Coast Abstracts' Tile Installation

I’d like to thank my friend and art collector of my work, Joe Hunt, for stopping by the 'West Coast Abstracts' Tile Installation this month and taking these updated photos showing the landscaping that is now in place since we completed the installation last June 2021. As well, the adjoining plaque is now up and beautifully mounted in the front of the installation on the sidewalk for easy ready accessibility to all who stop by.

It reads: “These contemporary abstract paintings rendered in hand-painted Portuguese tile, use a play of colour, movement, and texture to capture the ephemeral feeling of a walking through the local rainforest.  They serve as a reminder of the power of being in creative process. Connecting with our imagination can be both healing and self-empowering and is available to us all.”

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank each person who helped to bring this public artwork to fruition:

Rocky Sethi - COO, Adera Development Corporation - For overseeing the project and approving the choice of this public artwork for Crest Adera Developments. Thank you. Sarah Bingham – Director of Development - Project selection and initial project management. Thank you. Emma Cartwright - Development Manager, Adera Development Corporation - Art installation project management . Thank you. Helga Godinho - Managing Director of InfraBiz - Support of project proposal and on going project management. Thank you. Mario Rosado - Managing Director of InfraBiz - Support of project finances and deliverables. Thank you. Miguel Almeida Mendes – Commercial Manger at Viuva Lamego - In charge of fabrication and painting of tile artwork. Ana Sofia Tavares - Commercial Office Manager at Viuva Lamego - In charge of tile shipment. Thank you. Viuva Lamego Fabrication and Painting Team: Maria de Fátima Mota – Responsible of the Painting Department. Thank you. José Maria Salgado - Responsible for Project R&D. Thank you. Fernando Humberto Duarte – Painter of the Panels. Thank you. Tile installation Team: Bruce Walther - Lead Tile Installer. Thank you. Richard Finch - Tile installer. Thank you. Yule Ken Lum - Tile installer. Thank you. Lori Phillips - North Vancouver Public Art Commissioner - Overall project support. Thank you. Kari Hundt - Corporate Public Art Consultant - Project selection and initial project management. Thank you. Dennis Rithaler – Site Superintendent, Adera Development Corporation - Supporting the installation team on the ground for the installation process. Thank you. Katerina Stuparyk – Marketing Manager - Adera Development Corporation. Thank you. Dennis Rithaler – Site Superintendent, Adera Development Corporation - Supporting the installation team on the ground for the installation process. Thank you. Dougal Muir - Documentation - Script writing, editing, photos, video. Thank you. Mitchell Sayers - Bokuria Creative - Provided photos and video clips of Crest construction, final grand opening celebration, and final installation. Thank you. . Tim Sullivan - Photographer & Videographer - Project in process documentation. Thank you. Leigh Hodges - Corporate Consultant - Support on project proposals and reports. Thank you. Susan Greig - Artist Mentor - Support during secondary and tertiary project proposals. Thank you.

"If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together." - African Proverb

'Subtle Shift' Original Painting Featured in FRESH Hulu TV Series

In the spring of 2021 I was approached by the art director working on the production of FRESH

FRESH is a new Hulu series TV show starring Daisy Edgar Jones, as Noa and Sebastian Stan, as Steve ‘ Fresh’ is about the horrors of modern dating seen through one young woman's defiant battle to survive her new boyfriend's unusual appetites. It’s considered a horror show and rated R so please be forewarned if you endeavour to watch it.

Here is the preview for your possible enjoyment - or not. I got to speak with the art directors about the plot and story and what happens… and I am for sure NOT watching it, but you can make your own decision.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKk5VAK1GZQ&ab_channel=Hulu

The show releases March 4, 2022 and there are four other original paintings of mine that were rented and featured on the set that I will be sharing with you here on my blog moving forward. I am excited to keep an eye out for the paintings !

The original painting ‘Subtle Shift’ 60” x 40” x 1.5” mixed media on canvas is available to purchase for your collection online here at Saatchi Online Gallery:
https://www.saatchiart.com/art/Painting-Subtle-Shift/499285/1938371/view

DP1 Painting Featured at the AV Museum Exhibit 'Emergence' Opening this Thursday May 5th

Drishti Painting #1, Mixed Media on Canvas, 36” x 48” x 1.5” (c) Deb Chaney 2022

Deb Chaney will be featuring the first painting DP1 at the juried group exhibit at the AV Museum in Port Alberni, on Vancouver Island British Columbia. The show is entitled: Emergence: New Work, New Beginnings.

Opening reception will be held Thursday, May 5th at 7 PM at the AV Museum, 4255 Wallace Street in Port Alberni. 

The art show will be running from May 5 to Sept 3rd , 2022 and open to the public from 11 am - 4 pm Tuesday - Saturday during the duration of the exhibit.

This featured painting, DP1, began after moving to a new home, beginning a new series - this is the first painting in it - and with a new approach. Three concepts are embodied in the paintings of this new "Drishti Series": Space, focus and connection. In this series I am using sacred geometry patterns to represent connection. The desired goal with the painting is to offer a visual journey to the viewer into a focal point, a place to hold steady, and to ultimately find themselves. 

This original painting DP1 (Drishti Painting #1), Mixed Media on Canvas, 36” x 48” x 1.5” is available for your collection and purchase can be made with the museum during the exhibit dates , for purchase please contact avmuseumshow2022@gmail.com Phone: (250) 720-2863.

A Prelude of What's to Come...

‘ A Prelude of What’s to Come’ 9” x 12” Mixed Media on Loose Canvas.

This painting, part of my Little Gems Series , is indicative of what is going on in the studio these days...

That is, I am playing around and figuring out a new larger format series which involved repeating patters such as sacred geometry that are created with interwoven layers of paint colour, polymer mediums and textured mediums.

This painting is a study helping me figure out what I am doing and getting me ready to take it to big size paintings!

‘A Prelude of What's to Come’ is available for your art collection and can be purchased via Saatchi Online Gallery. Click here to order the painting today: https://www.saatchiart.com/art/Painting-A-Prelude-of-what-s-to-come/499285/9084707/view