ArtBeat

Julie Moon’s journey into ceramics unfolds with captivating depth. From an early curiosity for materials to an unexpected shift from textiles to clay, her story reveals a process led by intuition and a love for experimentation. Julie’s vibrant use of ornamentation, patterns, and striking colours, paired with her unique take on human forms, offers a fresh perspective that challenges traditional views in the world of ceramics. In this conversation, she discusses her inspirations, particularly her fascination with natural elements like fruits, flowers, and other everyday objects, which bring new layers of symbolism to her practice. As for upcoming exhibits, Julie is currently part of the group show “Elaborate” at Harbourfront Centre, which runs until December 29th. In the new year, she will be featured in a two-person show with Kate O'Connor at Hunt Gallery and will also have a solo show titled “Fruits” in one of the gallery spaces at the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery. You can find Julie’s work at Patel Brown Gallery and glimpse her artistic process on Instagram @juliemoooon, or explore her portfolio at juliemoon.com. Remember to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and leave a rating on your preferred platform.

In this conversation, we’re welcomed into Olga Abeleva’s world as she steps into a new chapter of artistic exploration. She shares glimpses of her journey, reaching back to a childhood filled with creative discovery, influenced deeply by her mother’s inventive spirit. Olga’s work today forms a vivid tapestry of inspiration—from Eastern European literature to the unpolished charm of pop culture, with threads drawn from the suspense and allure of horror and film noir. Her characters emerge as multi-layered figures, hinting at lives that extend far beyond the canvas. Inspired by the theatricality of 80s horror and the surreal mood of analog cinema, Olga’s storytelling gains a dreamlike quality, as her imagery interlaces hidden connections. Her spaces are at once familiar and slightly unsteady, evoking fragmented memories and architectural traces that invite a second glance.  Now, with a renewed focus, Olga ventures into uncharted creative paths. To explore her work further, visit olgaabeleva.ca, view her portfolio with Patel Brown Gallery, and follow her on Instagram at @whatsunderthemattress. Remember to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and leave a rating on your preferred platform.

A creative world shaped by family legacy, spirituality, and the power of colour—this is where Janna Watson draws you in during this episode of ArtBeat. With roots planted in an artistically rich upbringing, Janna shares stories from her childhood, filled with lessons from her painter grandfather and furniture designer grandmother, both of whom deeply influenced her creative spirit. Her latest series, Speaking in Tongues, captivates with its use of colour, form, and space, designed to evoke emotion before interpretation. Janna also shares how tarot and spirituality shape her artistic lens, offering a fascinating perspective on the balance of light and dark, both in life and in her work. From the disciplined rhythms of her studio practice to her reflections on how space—whether city or countryside—shapes her process, this episode offers an inside look at Janna’s evolving relationship with her art. But beneath it all lies something deeper: a story of personal growth, reclaiming spirituality, and transforming her studio into a sacred space of self-discovery. Discover Janna’s work on Instagram at @jannawww and visit her website at jannawatson.com. You can experience her latest exhibition, Speaking in Tongues, at Laura Rathe Fine Art in Houston until November 21, 2024, with another solo show to follow at Sugar Lift in New York in Spring 2025. Janna’s work will also be included in a group exhibition presented by Bau-Xi Gallery at Art Toronto from October 25-27, 2024 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.  Remember to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and leave a rating on your preferred platform.

In this episode of ArtBeat, we’re joined by Mia Nielsen, Director of Art Toronto, who shares her fascinating journey into the world of art and her role in shaping the country’s most prominent art fair. Growing up between Ontario and Denmark, Mia’s early experiences with creativity—from her musical roots to her love for museums—laid the groundwork for her curatorial career. Her 12 years at the Drake Hotel saw her curate bold, experimental projects and foster collaborations with leading cultural institutions, experiences that have informed her approach to running Art Toronto. Mia reflects on her time so far at Art Toronto, and how the fair continues to hold a vital place in the international art fair circuit, showcasing a distinctively Canadian perspective with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, particularly through the work of Indigenous artists. She offers insight into this year’s programming, highlighting its public installations and immersive experiences designed to captivate audiences. As Art Toronto celebrates its 25th anniversary, Mia considers how the art world has evolved, especially in a digital age, and what it means to encounter art in person. We also discuss the importance of collectors in sustaining the Canadian art market and how the fair creates meaningful connections between artists, galleries, curators, and collectors. Join us as Mia offers a rich exploration of curating an art fair that engages audiences and nurtures the Canadian art ecosystem. You can follow Mia on Instagram at @seekthesublime, Art Toronto at @art_toronto, or visit arttoronto.ca for more details.  The fair runs from October 24-27 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, with a special opening night on Thursday benefiting the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.  Get your tickets here and don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of contemporary art! Remember to follow ArtBeat on Instagram, subscribe to our podcast, and leave a rating on your preferred platform.