In June of 2024, I found myself moving into a place that already felt like home—a beautiful property along the Winnipeg River, in Keewatin Ontario, where I live, work, and play. Surrounded by nature that I hold dear, with calming waters and wildlife at my doorstep, I feel both tucked in and free. Being close to friends and family only adds to the sense of belonging. Here, I am revived, inspired, and ready to paint. This is my new studio, where I plan to create for the rest of my days.
A studio is more than just a physical space—it’s a sanctuary. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a grand, light-filled building or a small nook tucked under the stairs. What makes a studio special is that it’s your space—a place where your creative energy can flow freely.
When I began my journey as an artist, it started in the corner of my bedroom. As a teenager, oil painting became my refuge, and soon that small corner expanded into taking over the kitchen table. As my creativity grew, so did my space. Without that creative drive pushing me forward, I don’t think my space would have evolved the way it did. After moving to a few different houses, I eventually found myself painting in a basement. But as my work began to grow, so did my need for space, and I moved into the garage. With a bigger space, my output grew—both in size and quantity. The more room I had, the more my creative spirit soared.
Now, I find myself in a place that feels just right for the work I’m doing. This heated workshop, overlooking the Winnipeg River in Keewatin, Ontario, is just steps from my house and has all the space I need. Most importantly, it’s all mine—a place where I can get messy, lose track of time, and fully immerse myself in my art… and the more I create, the easier it becomes to create. That’s why I like my studio close to home, so it is a part of my life. It’s separate and sacred for the creation of art, yet on my property, walking distance to my house, and a regular stop in for friends close by.
I encourage you to carve out a space for yourself—a sanctuary for your own creative spirit to flourish. Like a goldfish in a larger tank, your creativity will be free to roam, grow, and guide you in ways you never imagined.