Introduction by Trudi Griffin:
Leslie Stadnichuk has been painting for more than three decades. Working mostly in oils and acrylics, Leslie has painted a variety of subjects, but one look at her portfolio will tell you that it’s the floral subjects that she relishes.
Many of her paintings are composed of one or two blossoms that capture light, line and hue Leslie creates work in a variety of sizes, from smaller accents to bold statement pieces.
Interview with Leslie Stadnichuk
Stadnichuk Art
Website: stadnichukart.com
Instagram: @lesliestadnichuk
Facebook: Leslie Stadnichuk Art
What kind of artwork do you create?
I paint realistic flowers in oils using both bold and subtle colors to depict the drama and the delicacy of these tough and tender beauties, allowing us to bring our summer treasures indoors year round.
What first drew you to your medium?
I find that the colors of flowers draw me in and give me a feeling of excitement and well being.
Where did you learn your craft?
I have taken many workshops and classes along the way:
- folk art classes
- pastels with Dianna Ponting
- watercolors with Larissa Cembaliuk Cheladin
- several USCAD classes
- Oil painting with Degan Lindner at Hues art supply
What is the inspiration behind your work?
I want to share the beauty found in creation that gives me both peace and wonder.
I love to see the flower come to life as it emerges on the canvas.
What do you hope people will gain from interacting with your work?
My hope in creating my florals is that people will not only enjoy summers bounty all year round but find the solace in them that I do.
How do you get through artist’s block?
To get through an artist’s block I look through previously painted pieces and saved reference photos for ideas. Often it will inspire me to go on and try something new.
Who are your mentors?
My mentors are all the fellow members of The Artists’ Workshop.
We have made it our goal to learn from each other through critiques and learning opportunities.
Tell us a story about a particular piece:
Celebration is a 36 x 60″ oil painting that now resides in a private collection in Humboldt, SK.
I took the photo of the Stargazer Lily in a local greenhouse 5 years before I worked up the courage to paint it. I knew I wanted to paint it large and in 2019 I took a large piece of canvas with me on vacation to Hawaii and started the painting in acrylics. When I got home I kept looking at it and just wasn’t happy with the blending in it. Finally I decided to paint over it with oils and was much happier with the result. It has been a favorite of mine for a long time.
How has your art/craft practice changed over time?
I started painting in pastels because I loved the instant burst of color I could achieve with them but I wanted to paint large pieces and found that it was difficult to find large substrate for them. It took me a few years to work up the courage to try oils but I have found the transition to be a good one for me, not only for the use of the medium but for the ease of transporting the paintings. I love how I am able to blend the oils for smooth color transitions.
Who are your art heroes or current influences?
I love the work of Australian artist Jenny Fusca. Even though she paints in a different medium (acrylic) I look closely at her work and think about how she brings the flowers to life on the canvas.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on a series of paintings called Forever the Humboldt & District Gallery for a show in January 2024.
What is your typical studio day routine?
There is no typical studio day here!
