Birches and Birds on Wires.

Birches, Birds, & Wires is a collection of my paintings hanging at Arts on Queen for the month of November. I worked right up until the last minute for this show and a few paintings were varnished and wired for hanging at the very last hour. It's so exciting to see them in the gallery, patiently waiting to be purchased and off to their new homes.

 Arts on Queen. 2198 Queen Street East. Toronto, On

416 699 6127

 In the window

 Pigeons and birds on wires in the gallery

 A selection of my abstracted birches.

 Canadian Beauty

30x40 acrylic on canvas

$2000.

 Urban Still Life

12x36 acrylic on canvas

$750.

 Standing Tall

36x60 acrylic on canvas

Sold. Thank you.

Upward Reaching

36x60 acrylic on canvas

$3000.

A Gorgeous Day

16" round acrylic on canvas

$350.

'A Gorgeous Day' is a 16 inch round, acrylic on canvas painting. It was inspired after I went to see the Alex Colville exhibit at the AGO. Shown here on my easel.

 Portrait No.1-6

6x6 acrylic on canvas/board

$175. each

Pigeons are about as urban a bird can get. You either love them or hate them. I've always been fascinated by them and thought they'd be fun to paint. Painted in acrylic on canvas and board. I custom framed them in black wood frames to keep with the urban feel. They can be purchased separately but would make a nice display with two or three grouped together.

 Urban Landscape No. 1

6x6 acrylic on board

$175. framed

Urban Landscape No. 2

6x6 acrylic on canvas/board

$175. framed

I also included a selection of  'birds on wires' that I've custom framed in distressed silver frames. I think the soft, silver distressed tones of the frames work well with the blues and grays in the painting.  

Arts on King Show Comes to an End.

June has been a great month (not only because it's my birthday month) but because I had my work featured at Arts on King. "Potpourri" comes to an end tomorrow.

I am very pleased that I decided to frame my series of pigeons and they've garnered alot of attention. They are more urban in subject matter-pigeons on concrete, yet they still keep the soft romantic feel that I like to create in my paintings.

It's always very thrilling for me to see a large body of my work together. It's a small moment in time when I see all the hard work in front of me and can feel satisfied that I am headed in the right direction. Personally, it's been a tough year but my art has seen me through it.

Not to worry if you missed it, you can see my work regularly at Arts on King and Arts on Queen.

Arts on King Presents "Potpourri"

My newest paintings are being featured at Art on King, June 1-30. Why "Potpourri" you ask? I chose "Potpourri" as a title because this showing is an ecclectic grouping of paintings of my favorite themes of late. Birches, blossoms, and birds.  As well as continuing with my birds on a wire series (with an urban twist) I've completed five paintings of pigeons. I watch the pigeons from my studio window on the sidewalk and the rooftops. I find them oddly comforting, and remember feeding them often as a child.

Potpourri-Artist Statement

I carry my camera with me at all times as I find inspiration anywhere and everywhere. I use the photos I've taken as inspiration and reference, but it is my personal interpretation of the subject that appears on the canvas rather than a replication of the photograph. I strive to make each painting a soft focus moment in time. A recent move to a new home/studio in downtown Toronto has ignited a passion to paint the things I see around me. But rather than capturing the noisy, ever changing movement and high energy that is the norm for most large cities, I paint the hidden quiet moments. My intent is to transport the viewer to a softer place where the hard edges of the world have been removed, replaced by romance, peace and innocence.

If you can, please join us for the opening reception at Arts on King. 165 King Street East. Toronto on Saturday June 4 from 1-4 pm. Hope to see you.

More event details here. Rita Vindedzis Fine Art on Facebook.

Figment, Flight and Fancy.

Supria Karmakar and myself at Supria's opening at Arts on King.

Pages created by Supria in my book Gifts From the Sea, part of the Inner Works collaborative.

This past Saturday I had the wonderful pleasure of finally meeting in person Supria Karmakar. Supria is a fabulous, very talented encaustic artist, and a beautiful soul. We've been online friends for a few years and I participated in a mixed media altered book round robin, which was Supria's creation.

Supria's show, titled Figment, Flight and Fancy opened last week at Arts on King in Toronto and is a must see. Encaustic painting involves using hot wax and pigment applied to a surface. Supria adds mixed media elements to create paintings that are highly textured, vibrant and translucent. Her work is layers upon layers of beautiful imagery that must be seen in person. Although it looks great on screen, a computer monitor really does not do her work justice. In looking closely at one of Supria's paintings elements appear to be floating in the luxurious colors and textures and the work has that wonderful smell of the wax-it all adds to the experience. You can see paintings from the show and more of Supria's encaustics on her blog and website. Figment, Flight and Fancy runs until April 30, 2011.

Monday August 30-Already??

Good Monday morning!!! It's great to be back here at my little blog. It seems like I've been away for ever and here it is almost the end of summer. The past few weeks have been busy busy taking care of personal things, enjoying the HOT summer, still unpacking, making time for painting, a gallery show, and all things art related.

My newest series of cityscapes is well underway. Moving downtown and setting up studio space in our new condo has filled me with lots of new creative energy. I've gotten tons of inspiration walking the streets with my camera and taking shots of all the buildings and I've thoroughly enjoyed getting to know my Toronto.

You may remember I mentioned a surprise before I took a break, well now that all the details have been finalized I can spill the beans. I was contacted by an art curator and after meeting with him I'm happy to announce that I will have 30 of my paintings hanging in the offices of Odgers Berndston from January to April 2011. It's exciting and a little overwhelming when I think of it. So far I have 15 that I know for sure will be included in the collection, but I'll have to adhere to a strict painting schedule in the fall to meet the criteria of 30. These are large works too, 36x48 40x40 48x48 and 48x60 .I'm also working on 2 commissions in the coming month. Time to put on a large pot of coffee and get started.

Whatever you're up to today, have a great one!!!

Work of Art : The Next Great Artist.

While channel flipping last weekend I found this show on Bravo. Work of Art : the Next Great Artist. I'm not a big fan of reality television but because this show is about art I stopped and watched for a few minutes and ended up watching the whole episode. Actually, I really enjoyed it and will continue to watch to it's end. Now I have to see who wins the competition. So here's the premise of the show. Each week a group of contestants (all are working artists) are given a challenge of creating a unique piece of art in a variety of mediums such as painting, sculpture, collage, industrial design, photography etc. After the deadline, the creations are shown in a gallery setting and the judges choose the worst piece of art and that contestant must leave the group and the competition. You can read the show description here at Bravo.ca and here at Bravo.com Fun to see how each artist handles the challenge and the thinking and creativity that goes into it. The episode that I saw was a tame one as I found out reading about the show on the U.S. site. There are some pretty racy and shocking artworks created in some of the challenges. Those episodes might be challenging for me to watch as I'm really not partial to avant guard or shock art.

Thoughts for a Monday.

Thanks to all that made it out to my opening at Arts on Queen on Saturday. It was great to see you and chat about my work. Here are a few shots I took before it got too busy. For those those that couldn't join me, my paintings will be up until July 31st.

So here we are, another Monday upon us. The unpacking of boxes is taking much longer than I expected and has me frustrated. Don't get me wrong, I'm very grateful for the fact that we were able to purchase this beautiful "dream" condo. I'm very fortunate for sure, but the moving and all that comes with it really did a number on my head. All kinds of emotions have been popping up from out of no where it seems. I guess that's why those reality television shows are so popular. You know the ones where people are forced to part with their mountains of stuff and clean and organize their lives. The cameras follow them through the process and you can watch them cry and scream in frustration, issues and emotions buried years before coming to the surface. For me it's more of that feeling you got as a child the day after Christmas. The toys have all been unwrapped and played with and there's an emptiness in the pit of your stomach. Now What???

I feel like that. I've been concentrating on two major events for the last few months and now they're over. The move is over. My show is hung, reception over. Now what??? I suppose I feel like every other "creative" out there and I'll be spending the next little while figuring out what's next with my painting. A new series, the next show, pimping my poor neglegted shop. Embarking on a new adventure is exciting and a little stressful too. For now I'll just continue to unpack. I'm just about done setting up the studio although I'm not sure if I'm ready to share a photo just yet. Soon, I promise.

Birds on a Wire.

Follow Me On Twitter 18x18 Acrylic on Canvas

Contact Arts on Queen to Purchase

I've always liked looking at birds on wires and have been photographing them since I can remember. In the country, along the highways and in the city. I've just always found it a very pleasing and soothing image. And so my "birds on a wire" series of paintings began.

I was thrilled when I noticed on the second day after our move, sitting out on the balcony, that wires run right across my view at our level. The little birds land on the wires regularly. They have nests in the building next to us and I can hear them chirping away. It's a nice addition to the sounds of the street car and city life. Now I just have to step out on my balcony for inspiration. I think I'll be painting many more urban landscapes in the months to come.

To see my newest paintings in the "Birds on a Wire" series be sure to check out my show "Fresh" at Arts on Queen. 2198 Queen St. E. in the Beaches, Toronto. July 3-31. Opening reception Saturday July 3, 1-4 pm.

"Fresh" Sneak Peek.

Twittering 18x18 Acrylic on Canvas

Contact Arts on Queen to Purchase

Sophisticated 30x30 Acrylic on Canvas

Contact Arts on Queen to Purchase

Spring Birch Forest 36x36 Acrylic on Canvas

Contact Arts on Queen to Purchase

This Saturday my solo show "Fresh" opens at Arts on Queen in the Beaches, Toronto. New paintings of birches, blossoms and birds. The opening reception is from 1-4 pm. Please stop in if you can, it would be great to see you.

ARTS ON QUEEN

July 3, 2010 - July 31, 2010
Reception: July 3, 2010, 1-4 PM
Fresh - Rita Vindedzis.
Toronto artist Rita Vindedzis takes a fresh approach to her new collection of paintings featuring birches, blossoms and birds. Inspired by the colours and textures of the season, Vindedzis shows diversity in her art and has taken a step away from the landscapes she is best known for. Her "birds on a wire" series hints at whimsy while her decorative blossoms and birches present a current perspective of nature. Her abstracted birches have graced the pages of magazines such as Style at Home.

2198 Queen St. E., Toronto, ON
M4E 1E7, T: 416-699-6127
Mon-Wed 11-6:30, Thurs-Fri 11-7:30, Sat 9-6:30, Sun 11-6

"Fresh" at Arts on Queen, Toronto.

Sunny Day 36x36 Acrylic on Canvas $2100.

Here is the official write up for my show that opens at Arts on Queen next month. I'm really looking forward to it. It's a really great little gallery in the Beach, in Toronto-very trendy area. The reception is always fun as I get to meet and chat with the public. It will also be relaxing as I get to chill with the gallery staff after all the commotion of moving into our new condo. If you're in the area please do drop by. Sorry Kim, you won't be in town for the opening but please contact me before your trip. I'd love to get together and have a face to face with you.

"Fresh" New Paintings in Acrylic by Rita Vindedzis

July 1 2010 - July 31 2010

Reception: July 3, 1-4 pm Artist will be present

Toronto artist Rita Vindedzis takes a fresh approach to her newest paintings of birches, blossoms and birds. Inspired by the colours and textures of the season, Vindedzis shows diversity in her art and has taken a step away from the landscapes she is best known for. Her "birds on a wire" series hints at whimsy while her decorative blossoms and birches are a popular choice with interior designers, snatching them up for their clientele. Rita's decorative abstracted birches have graced the pages of Style at Home Magazine, the 2008 Benjamin Moore Colour brochure and the 2010 Style at Home Collection Colour brochure. Arts on Queen 2198 Queen St. East, Toronto, ON, M4E 1E7. 416-699-6127, Open 7 days a week.

Sunday Bits.

Aren't these poppies gorgeous? I saw them while walking and just had to stop and take some photos of them. They really say summer to me, although we're still a few days away from the summer solstice. Life here has been hectic to say the least, but I'm happy to say that I've finished all the new paintings for my upcoming show at Arts on Queen. I'll be showing you a sneak peek soon so please stay tuned. I have just 3 more new paintings that will need to be varnished and then all have to be photographed and documented. Then I'll pack up my studio. Moving day is coming quickly. We picked up an assortment of moving crates and boxes from the movers we will be using so this week I'll get started on some serious packing. Today I'm trying to squeeze in a couple of hours to relax and do nothing, but I'm sure I'll find something that needs cleaning or sorting instead. What have you got planned for your day? I hope it's something enjoyable.

Checking In.

I sat down here with my laptop while waiting for paint to dry so I can continue and paint another layer on top. As I sit here catching my breath and thinking of what to write, I realize that I have nothing really to say. It's been a crazy few days and I've been running on full speed. We were in Montreal over the weekend tying up ends and attending a funeral. Chatting with friends and family that we don't see often and wrapping and boxing items. It was rather surreal and sad at the same time. I know it's the cycle of life and death and we all move on, so I put my memories close to my heart and carry on as close to normal as possible.

I'm attempting to get in to the studio as often as I can these days but the interruptions continue. The landlord has to show our apartment and so I'm forced to stop and tidy up at the worst times (like I've just mixed up all this paint and about to get it on the canvas and the phone rings). So I stop, tidy as fast as I can and the phone rings again, appointment cancelled. Back to painting and then in a while the phone rings again and I'm back to tidying. Smiling and trying not to freak out too much.

29 days until we take possession of our new condo. 35 days until I need all the paintings finished and varnished. 44 days until we move. 44 days until I have to deliver paintings to the gallery. 47 days until the opening reception. Yikes!! It's back to work for me!!

Hello March.

Magnolia Buds 12x24 Acrylic on Canvas
Sold

So here we are, its Monday and the first day of March. I'm thinking spring. Longer warmer days, flowers breaking through the last traces of snow. The promise of spring so beautiful. It's just around the corner. Really.

And it can't come soon enough for me. January and February were tough months this year. There were personal issues to deal with and work through and the long quiet hours I spend in my studio (which I usually revel in) left me feeling alone and isolated. We also experienced a death in the family with the passing of my husband's mother. Zina was a kind and caring woman and as far as mother in laws go, she was the absolute best.

So this first day of March is a new beginning of sorts and I'm jumping right in with optimism. Carpe Diem. I've got some serious studio time scheduled as it's time to get new work into my galleries. I also have a couple of exciting meetings planned and of course my weekly coffee date with my sister.

My good friend artist Lynn Kelly is exhibiting at the Artist Project this week and I'll be helping her with some booth sitting this Friday. You may remember a post I wrote about her art installation here. There are wonderful artists doing this show so if you're in Toronto you should really check it out.

My Friend Lynn Kelly's Art Installation.

I had the pleasure recently of seeing my friend Lynn Kelly's exhibit at the Red Head Gallery in Toronto. The Red Dot Show is a group show of the Red Head Gallery members and incorporates paintings, photography, sculpture, video and sound work. Curated by Anastasia Hare.

Lynn Kelly maintains a philosophical and spiritual narrative in her painting and sculpture. She conveys an interest in emotional and psychological effects of transient lifestyles in our rapidly shrinking world. By painting one square at a time, Kelly maintains control over what she can do. As images emerge from the viewed canvas they form uncontrollable and inevitable conclusions. The square canvas provides a neutral format that has no direction, and is automatically balanced and symmetrical. The colours reference moments of joy and times of intense emotion: cities at night, water reflections, and ice crystals.

My photographs do not do Lynn's installation justice as you can't see all the details in the paintings. You can see more of Lynn's work on her website. Lynn will also be exhibiting at the Artists Project in Toronto in March 2010.

Pictured above is Chelsea Series 2,3,4,5,7,9, City Series 1-2 No Title 2009 oil on linen and Mobile Sculptural Component, mixed media & electric motor, variable heights 2009

edited at 5:41 pm. I forgot to mention that the show closes this Saturday, December 19.

Bits of My World Right Now.

Painting time in the studio is almost zero these days leading up to Christmas although there have been art related events, discussions and meetings happening. A special thank you to Jackie of Paula White Diamond Gallery as I now have selected landscapes on view in the head offices of Open Text in Waterloo Ontario.


There's lots of prep going on for exciting news I will share with you in the new year. I've been gathering supplies for new mixed media paintings and have been inspired by the sights of the season. Metallics and shiny things like tinsel and sparkly lights. Shades of blue and grey and white. Natural elements. I'll also be painting new landscapes for upcoming gallery shows.



Time has been on my mind because it seems to be flying by faster than usual lately. Is that even possible? Erik turns 18 this New Year's Eve. How did that happen?


Looking forward to our Christmas visit with family and friends in Montreal. If it's anything like the last couple of Christmas visits, we are guaranteed plenty of snow.


Remembering to slow down and really enjoying those special moments.

Art Interiors 16th Annual Festival of Smalls

Mini Birches 3x5 $50.
Sold Thank You

Treeline 6x12 $250
available at Art Interiors.

Birds on a Wire 4x4 $50.
available at Art Interiors.

It's that time of year again. ART INTERIORS 16th ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF SMALLS begins this Saturday, November 14th. You can purchase original artworks in gift sizes from $55. to $250. by Art Interior's wonderful roster of artists. This year, there's even an advanced preview available online November 13th, here. Don't miss out. This is THE hottest event at Art Interiors.