I'm excited to share that my recent Art Studio Open House was a lot of fun! In May 2025, I welcomed guests into my creative space for the first time since moving into the studio. The weekend was filled with inspiration, connection, and community. Wychwood Barns art studios were buzzing with art lovers discovering original paintings, fine art prints, and other unique creations by local artists.

🧑🎨 A Vibrant Gathering of Art Lovers

It was such a joy to see visitors exploring the studio and engaging with the artwork. Whether guests were seasoned collectors or first-time buyers, the event offered a wide variety of original pieces, especially paintings that reflected a range of styles, techniques, and stories.

The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with people connecting over their shared appreciation for creativity and expression.

🖼️ Original Paintings Sold & Artist Spotlights

I'm proud to share that original artworks were sold during the event — including several original paintings that found new homes.

One of the most exciting recent sales was my large diptych painting titled Experimental Blues (2021). This 3' x 4' acrylic on canvas features bold, gestural marks and a vibrant palette of blue, teal, green, peach, purple, yellow, black, and white. Created over multiple sessions, this work involved layered washes, palette knife textures, and paint squeezed straight from the tube. I worked to manipulate colour saturation and spatial depth, pushing the abstraction and emotional energy of the piece. I'm thrilled that this dynamic painting now lives in a private collection and is shown here in its new home! 

I was also happy to see paintings from my Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train and Italy Series series find new homes. The Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting collection explores the raw, intense, and often chaotic experience of early motherhood. With expressive brushwork, abstract forms, and emotional depth, these paintings resonated deeply with several visitors. Knowing that these personal works connected so strongly with others — and are now part of their homes — means so much to me.

Supporting local painters and visual artists is one of the most meaningful parts of hosting these events. I'm deeply grateful for everyone who supported the work on view. London Living Room, an oil on canvas original painting created in 2024, also sold in May. Shown below, this painting measures 30" x 20" and captures a woman inside her English home. 

 

🛍️ Pop-Up Gallery & Art Studio Shop

The pop-up shop was a popular stop for visitors, offering:

• Original paintings from several ongoing series
• Fine art prints 
• Art cards, art scarves, and other creative goods that make great original gifts

I was glad that fine fine art prints and art cards from my Italy Series were among the bestsellers. Inspired by my travels in Italy, this series captures moments of colour, architecture, and atmosphere in cities like Venice, Florence, and Rome. The response to these pieces — both the vibrant prints and thoughtfully designed cards — was overwhelmingly positive, and I'm so grateful to everyone who brought a piece of Italy home with them.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to explore, ask questions, and invest in local art.

🎶 Great Vibes & Community Energy

With conversations flowing all weekend, the studio had an incredible energy. I loved hearing stories, answering questions, and sharing the creative process with so many curious, supportive visitors.

🙏 Thank You for Being Part of This Toronto Art Event

To everyone who came out, supported local art, and made this day such a success — thank you. The community's support means the world to me, and I’m already planning the next open studio for July.

To be first to hear about upcoming events, new artwork, and behind-the-scenes updates, be sure to join my mailing list or follow along on social media.

📍 Visit My Studio

📍 Where: 601 Christie St Studio #162, Toronto, ON M6G 2H6. 

Across from the playground in Wychwood Barns.

Contact me if you'd like to make an appointment for a private art consultation. 

📱 @RachaelGradArt

Art lives here — and I’m so glad you were part of it.