What could be more appropriate for Canada Day than the symbolic art of realist Brandy Saturley, whose works explore the Canadian consciousness.
For five years in the lead-up to Canada’s 150th anniversary on July 1, Saturley sussed out the icons and settings that make us Canadian. Her works are on exhibition in Canadianisms, at Okotoks Gallery near Calgary through Sept. 2. (Top of post: Under a Borealis Sky)
Saturley is also the force behind the heralded People of Canada portrait project. It’s a crowdsourcing initiative that calls on couples to take selfies, which Saturley turns into acrylic paintings. (Above: Not for Sale)
Let your backbone Rise – Contemplating those Lawren Harris Rocky Mountains
Saturley started out focused on traditional national symbols (the hockey mask, the beaver, a Tim Horton’s coffee cup and maple syrup) but soon moved into broader settings. She was inspired by people sitting on docks, exploring the wilderness, or guiding sled dogs in the north.
Saturley, born in Victoria, B.C., is a prolific painter, travelling photographer, and multiple award-winning artist. “I don’t paint landscapes, portraits or still-life,” she says in her artist statement. “Rather I am telling stories using iconic figures, landscapes, and compositions. I am an explorer, and I am currently exploring the Canadian consciousness.”
Brandy Saturley’s website, here.
On Instagram (@icconiccanuk) here.
This is #30 in the series 150 Artists.
Categories: 150 Artists, Culture, Painting-Canadian
Canadian Art Junkie 
Though their styles are very different, her work makes me remember Doug Coupland’s “Secret Handshake” exhibit in Toronto a year or two ago… Also icons, alluded to; things only Canadians would be able to ‘read’ below the surface level.
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Thanks for that reference. Wasn’t aware of Secret Handshake. And that comment about reading below the surface. So true. And appropriate for this weekend.
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Yes, very Canadian! I like this a lot. Happy Canada Day!
(So I’m doing the 150 “O” kisses gown.)
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Excellent! 150 O kisses is iconic!! (Meanwhile, have to catch up with your posts, been away!)
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Happy Canada Day!
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And to you Kitty! (Edited a couple of hours later: whoops, just remembered where you live, not Canada, but no reason not to wish you best of the day anyway!)
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Beautiful artwork. GLAD you are back! Was just thinking that I had not seen a post from you in a while. You came back strong. Love that first picture with the person wrapped in Canadian flag.
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Yes, the series is still going. Had to take a hiatus. But full steam ahead again. Thank you!
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