Local Artists Gallery

Boloebi Charles Okah 

Mike Kasongo

The Artist Valentina

Andre Walker

Halina Stopyra

Lisa Armstrong

Abiola Idowu

Atlas Ink

Laith Hakeem

Paul Glyn-Williams
"Sumartist"

Philemon Campbell

Toussaint McIntosh

Artists Bios

Boloebi Charles Okah

A multidisciplinary artist working in most mediums of art, currently living between Toronto, Canada and Nigeria. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, his colorful paintings pay homage to his homeland.

His distinctive personal style emanates joy, peace and expresses a free spirit infused with the atmosphere of the Nigerian culture. Vibrant landscapes, tropical birds, flowers and women in colorful head wraps are all brought to life with contrasting yet harmonious colors and bold compositions. His works are linked by recurring themes of pattern and design rendered with a variety of materials and processes.

Mike Kasongo

A self-taught artist born in Kinshasa, D.R. Congo, and currently based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. He harmoniously blends the rich cultural tapestry of African heritage with the timeless elegance of European Renaissance art. Through masterful creations, he invites viewers on a journey that transcends borders.

Starting with charcoal and graphite, Mike taught himself shading techniques by observing human expression and emotions. Transitioning to oil painting in 2017, he has since embarked on a continuous exploration of ideas and techniques, delving deeper into his own psyche and cultural roots.

Passion and dedication shine through each piece as Mike aims to evoke emotion, inspire thought, and provoke meaningful reflections on the human condition through an unyielding pursuit of growth from the perspective of a modern African man.

The Artist
Valentina

A multifaceted artist Valentina has achieved international success while living and working in North America, Australia and Europe. Valentina designed costumes, stage sets, directed theatre productions, pitched and produced performing arts shows. She has been vigorously and fully immersed in the art of creativity for decades. 

Creating visual art magic on a smaller scale suitable for art gallery settings and private spaces is a very recent and most wondrous revelation for Valentina. The art of improvisation was a daily part of her practice as an arts educator, imparting laughter, intrigue and delight. In her current process she aspires to continue to share joy, beauty and entertainment through her art pieces.

Andre Walker

Andre Walker is a Canadian visual artist born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. His passion for art ignited at a young age and was fueled by his love for cartoons, comic books, and anime. Over time, Andre had developed a deeper interest in realism and portraiture, focusing on the intricate expressions and emotions conveyed through color. His preferred medium is coloured pencils, which he uses to create vibrant, realistic portraits. As an artist, Andre aims to inspire others to follow their dreams and pursue what they love.

Abiola Idowu

My world is my canvas, and I paint it with passion every day. With vibrant brushstrokes of love, kindness, and empathy, I strive to create a masterpiece of beauty and compassion. Each day, I add new colors and textures, weaving a tapestry of warmth and connection. As I paint, envision a world where every moment is a work of art, filled with the beauty of human connection and the vibrant hues of kindness.

Halina Stopyra

As a self-taught artist I realize that I learn to paint intuitively observing world around me, feeling a desire in my heart to contribute in the Collective, feeling love for beauty of Nature and living in reverence of diversity of humanity

Atlas Ink

Atlas Ink Toronto is a cutting-edge Tattoo Shop that provides a unique experience of the artistry, creativity, and cultural expression associated with this artform. Their artists have a creative body of work that comprises realism, nature, objects and symbolism. The Tattoo Artist utilizes the product of the skilled application of materials, with consideration given to placement, aesthetics, and style to create expressive artwork on skin.

If the creator or receiver of a tattoo sees it as art, then that's what it is. Tattoos have gone through movements and trends. Art in Motion is just another expression of this artform.

Laith Hakeem

Multitalented Artist & Atlas Ink Tattoo artist...

Philemon Campbell

Self-taught artist Philemon Campbell began to pain in 183 and immediately attracted the attention of local art lovers as well as visitors in his native Jamaica. Since immigrating to Canada in 1988, his landscapes, seascapes and images of Jamaican life and culture have been exhibited in galleries across Ontario.

Philemon’s work has also been featured at the Royal Bank of Canada, the Jamaican Diaspora Canada Foundation, the Toronto Transit Commission and Arts and Culture Jamaica.

Lisa Armstrong

Inspired by her mother’s creative legacy, Lisa Leslie’s art merges the vibrant colours and spirit of her Trinidadian roots with her lived experiences set against the backdrop of Toronto. From flowers to musicians to the human body in its nude state, Lisa trades in light, how it obscures and reveals, and no subject is left unexplored. Honest. Warm. Forthright. Lisa refracts emotions in hues that call to mind the Caribbean sky at sunset and the cool greys and blues of the downtown core in February’s frosty grip. Her works are explorations of feelings – at times pushing, prodding and coaxing but never overwhelming. In Lisa’s art you are sure to find a moment of recognition. You will find, if not a promise of resolution, at least a hope. The beauty of Lisa’s work is that it leaves you to decide which is better.

Paul Glyn-Williams

SumArtist, also known as Paul Glyn-Williams, is a contemporary artist who skillfully blends various mediums such as painting, digital graphics, graffiti, airbrushing, sculpture, and fabrication. His versatility and creative exploration define his work, allowing him to bring diverse concepts to life through a unique and cohesive artistic experience.

SumArtist’s commitment to innovation is evident in his commission-based projects, which have earned a place in private collections of prominent figures like Matt Barnes and Sal Slaiby. His work has been exhibited at venues such as Toronto’s UpART festival and the Gladstone Hotel, and one of his career highlights includes a 60-foot mural celebrating José Bautista’s iconic “Bat Flip” for the Toronto Blue Jays. Through his fearless blending of styles and dedication to exploring new ideas, SumArtist has become a dynamic figure in the contemporary art world.

Toussaint McIntosh

As a laser engraver and graphic designer, I transform wood into living canvases. Each piece I create is a fusion of natural beauty and technological precision, where iconic images are etched onto the warm, organic surface of carefully selected woods. My work brings a creative and unique, laser-engraved piece that you'll treasure for years to come.

As an artist, I find joy in the ability to create on demand, translating clients visions into tangible works of art. This aspect of my practice keeps me engaged and inspired, ensuring that every piece I produce is infused with creativity and passion.