A Conversation.... with J. Hanson, O N Y X M E D I A

Step into the studio of Todaschuk …… a personal story

MY FIRST QUESTION ……… WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
“I like to think I can explore this world and come away working in ethereal dimensions so to speak. For me spiritually, art brings the past and the present worlds together, and so, when I paint something that imparts strength and truth, I feel as though I have reinforced my self-worth on this earth. I believe we are all here to do something fruitful with our life. For me, painting is both soulful and transcending; and it must come from an honest place. I’m inspired by that kind of power. That’s just MY philosophy.”

SO HOW AND WHEN DID YOUR INTEREST IN OIL PAINTING DEVELOP?
“Everyone has a story to tell….. as a child I was exposed to a vast cultural milieu, and notably encouraged in a very creative environment by my parents. And unequivocally, without the celebrated effort it took for my parents to shower me with this kind of influence, I don’t think I would have it in me to truly share myself. Music was and is at the centre of my life. At 17 and 18, my sister Rosemarie and I headed for Toronto to cultivate our interests in the Faculty of Fine Arts. Rosemarie is a BFA Graduate of Music. Ballet and Modern Dance inspired me to pursue a Fine Arts Degree at York University (I later switched Majors). Theatre and Painting have always been my favourite indulgences. It was when I was studying European History and the Renaissance Period, that I knew I had somehow belonged to this world. I consider Renaissance Nobility to be this ‘timeless beauty’ day or night, because the nobility helped to broaden this artful, typically opulent way of life decorating themselves with elegant satins, lush velvets and exquisite brocades – clothes were such a distinguished and important treasure. Culture was an accomplishment…. The Renaissance aristocrat learns everything well; Education, politics, fashion, writing, theatre, music, painting, how to dance, and how to be festive were all very important attributes. The artistic revival and movement of this time is awe-inspiring and so I decided upon classical instruction at La Galerie Bohémiarte in Old Montreal.”

HOW INTERESTING …….
CAN YOU TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR TRAINING AT LA GALERIE BOHÉMIARTE ?
“I feel it is a privilege to study under the watchful eye of Irena Korosec and Lucie Larose, and I couldn’t possibly say enough about them. They have wisdom beyond their years – creating incredible works of art, teaching and inspiring others to do the same….. a sort of window into their soul. As a contemporary artist studying Classical Realism, I am inspired by the techniques of the Old Master’s throughout history. In harvesting this knowledge and experience, I am prompted to create my own style.”

DO YOU PLAN TO STUDY ABROAD?
“Well, that was the plan for this past year, but due to unforeseen circumstances those plans are postponed for a later date. I am embarking on other ideas right now, that what matter’s most to me is seeing things through to fruition.”

DO YOU PAINT TO MUSIC BECAUSE IT ALLOWS YOU TO PAINT BETTER?
“Absolutely. Every brush stroke has its dance to the tune of Por Una Cabeza!!! You have to do what it takes to awaken the senses. It’s an electrifying tango piece and it makes me come alive! It’s so important to believe what your eyes tell you, and painting to music helps me breathe life into my creation. It was Maya Angelou who said; ‘Everything in the universe has rhythm. Everything dances.’ ”

WHEN I LOOK AT YOUR PAINTINGS, I WANT TO KNOW HOW MUCH FUN YOU’RE HAVING.
“You know - that’s an important state of mind. Things can go terribly wrong or incredibly right depending on how one romances the idea of a playful diversion. If you think too much or try to hard, it feels and looks all too laboured. Just trust what you see; tell the truth and enjoy yourself in the process. Think like a painter. The world brims with interesting people and I’ve been fortunate to have been surrounded by some fascinating and dynamic individuals. Observe, listen, take notes, capture every nuance and collaborate with creative and interesting people – ultimately, your true self ends up on the canvas.”

IS THERE ANYONE LOOKING OVER YOUR SHOULDER?
“You bet. Everyone’s a critic in the house! And that’s a good thing… I think?! (laughing). To be honest, I don’t mind onlookers. I practically encourage it. Any offering of concrete criticism really challenges you to raise the bar. And because oil painting is a forgiving medium, I will rework the painting until I am able create that somewhat haunting mood on the canvas…. it’s that magical moment when deep shadows and areas of contrast that grabs your attention. Et voilà!!! Proportions are crucial at every stage. But to be sure, I use the reflection in the mirror to be my guide… it never fails me… that, and painter’s intuition. Deliberately, I will experiment with colour mixing and tonal values just so I can improve and make myself aware of many possibilites.”

I HEAR YOU HAVE A SWEET STORY ABOUT SOME OF YOUR PAINT BRUSHES.
“I do. At the time I was taking Byzantine Icon writing classes under the teaching of Russian-born master iconographer Dimitri Andreyev from St. Petersberg, Sister Rosette (who happened to be living on the premises) and I happened to engage in conversation. Further into our conversation we found out that we both shared a common interest - oil painting. She brought me to her residence where her oil paintings were proudly displayed. Her artwork was incredibly beautiful and I was so very touched by her wisdom …. She actually gave me some of her favourite brushes. In fact, I dipped the tips in gold and branded them my special brushes, using them as my finishing brushes near the end of every painting….. I like to think it’s the ‘stroke of gold’ and a reminder of what a special person she is. Amazingly, she is 98 years young!”