Darlene Winfield

I am an emotional painter who is very attached to impressionistic painting. The way it is possible to immerse myself in the buttery strokes is just a joy for me. At times I will use a brush, knife or my hands if I feel it will produce the message I wish to share with the world.

It has always been a goal to become a full-time artist and despite a long and winding road to becoming a full-time artist, it happened. I believe I was around five years old sitting at the kitchen table when I realized people were artists for a career, and I thought 'I will do that some day'.

As far as my education goes, I used the world as my classroom. I have always loved art and have taken classes throughout my high school and college years as electives. An art history class came complete with a tour of Greece and Italy. Later, I returned to Europe many times and from there around the world. I spent extended times in England, Indonesia and Mexico. Visiting the museums, galleries and historical sites was invaluable. In my opinion, immersing one's self in art around the world is an education in itself.

Painting large allows me to enter the world of the painting on the easel and is a joy like no other.

I believe intuitive painting is the first step to creating abstract work. It is the challenge I find myself completely absorbed with. The outcome of a painting done like this presents itself without being designed by real life photos or anything but where the paint leads you as an artist is so attractive to me.

My palette is connected to my emotions. My approach to a series is always attached to something that is going on in the world or my own world. I always use blue and white somewhere in my paintings. These two colors are symbolic for me. White is full of hope and open to anything. Space and dreams live in white. Blue is a colour that I love. It encompasses all types of feelings and can visually change the mood of a painting for me.

I have been juried into many exhibitions and art shows such as The Artist Project and The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair. Currently, showing in several galleries.

It is my mission to share art with people to give them an escape from reality if for but a brief moment. To enter a world where you feel lighter and more hopeful.

I have taken course at Humber College, Ryerson College and several private tutorials when overseas.

I consider myself 'self taught'.

ATIM TOP 60 CONTEMPORARY ARTIST 2016

Toronto Outdoor Art Fair
The Artist Project
Rosedale Art in the Square
Riverdale

complete list on my website

I love the Impressionism movement. With the paint not only representing the subject but actually feeling the subject. Monet, Manet and Renoir were just so expressive that you can stare at their paintings and feel as though you are entering their world.

seascape, floral, ponds, fine art, impressionism, ocean, water, flowers, oil paint, waves