Artist Statement:

This collection is the manifestation of self, which emerges out of the articulated lines and layers of introspection and instinct. Each piece begins intuitively, with a slow and rhythmic application of penciled line or brush of colour, thus initiating the conversation within. And in this space, I confront the existential questions that we individually and collectively face: who, what, why am I? And, who, what, why are we? During my metaphysical musing, strokes and brushes are added or subtracted – each line and layer, informed by the previous one and influencing the next – until the image finds its form. Rising to the surface, the portrait of a female, with her wistful countenance, is born. And although the she who appears is not Me, I exist inside of her – perplexed by the unanswered questions on what it means to be.

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The Name is Guglielmina Vancardo. Yes, Guglielmina is a mouthful. She was named after her Italian grandfather (Guglielmo), nonetheless, she has always been called Mina.

When Mina started University, she knew only that she wanted to be a teacher. In her first year she took a basic painting course and a beginner art history course and loved it ever since. Mina graduated with a BA in Art and Art History from the University of Toronto and Sheridan College. Immediately following her degree, she completed her Bachelor of Education and have been teaching Visual Arts to teens ever since. Mina finds great pleasure in helping students find the artist within, especially the student who doesn't believe they have a little artist inside.

Mina likes to do a little bit of everything, sculpt, print, draw, make her own pigments, sew, but she always returns to painting and feels most comfortable with a brush in her hand. As an artist, she always allows her emotional/romantic side to dominate when painting. She enjoys beginning with an idea and allowing it to evolve organically.

What being featured means to Mina:

“Having my art featured (or asking to be featured) is a big step for artists. It means you are ready to share with others what you have created. It may come with criticism or with praise but it is an essential next step. As a visual arts teacher, I encourage my students to not be afraid, and share their work - I must practice what I teach.”.

You can see more of her wonderful work on her instagram profile @mina_vancardo and on her website/online store store.minavancardo.com

Freak, out!

The Contemplative Self - Mina Vancardo

Tones of blue - Letizia Firmani

Samantha Connell-Tombs