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.
Paul
Kohoko
Born in the beaches of Toronto, Ontario, Paul Kohoko is a self-taught artist from the Algonquin First Nation of Pikwakanagan, Golden Lake and of the Thunderbird Clan. He has worked in multiple mediums through the years including acrylics, pen and ink. In accordance with Anishinaabe tradition, self-taught artist Paul Kohoko naturally adopted the woodland or/ legend or medicine painting. He has since done a great volume of works throughout the years in Toronto and surrounding areas through private commission. Paul now makes his home with his wife at Six Nations of the Grand River territory where he continues to pursue his passion of art.
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...
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.