The Artist Project

For five years now, The Artist Project has been featuring original work from independent Canadian contemporary artists. This exhibition, which runs from March 1-4th at the Queen Elizabeth building at Toronto’s Exhibition Place, offers a spectacular collection of wall art, installations and sculpture. I had a chance to peruse the space on opening night, which was bustling with artists, designers and creatives from coast to coast.

I first met Tony Koukos at 2012’s Interior Design Show. This photographer/world traveler transforms his stunning pictures into works of art. The canvases above feature Parisian graffiti.

Another favourite is our very own Ryan Louis‘ photography-based art pieces. Look up close and you’ll see that these “constructed realities” are in fact meticulous cutouts that were layered and photographed. Stunning.

Ian Busher’s abstract photography definitely caught my eye. Inspired by urban and industrial landscapes, this artist transforms rough textures into intriguing and colourful works of art. The high gloss finish definitely makes these pieces stand out.

There were plenty of phenomenal painted pieces at the show. Sketch artist Nissim Ben Aderet’s style was quite different. Created with a single line, his work is busy, eye-catching and filled with movement. I couldn’t look away.

These quirky (and dare I say creepy) bookends made me smile! What a conversation piece! Artist Ross Bonfanti’s booth was filled with ravaged stuffed animals that had seen better days and other pieces made of concrete and toy parts.

Artist Erin Vincent displays her beautifully intricate sculptures under lovely wood-base cloches.

One of my favourites was this simple yet perfectly dreamy horse painting by Erika Baempfer Deery. Wow.

Of course, there were too many amazing artists to feature in one short blog post, so if you’re in Toronto, I urge you to take some time this weekend to tour The Artist Project exhibition — you just might stumble upon that perfect piece you’ve been looking for.

Photo credits:
1-7. Jason Stickley