Sophie Spiridonoff the Artist
Mesmerized by shapes and the colours of nature, and passionate for painting, I use oil colours because of their vibrancy.
I am excited to be showing my work in Canada, though I have had my paintings and illustrations in the biannual, the contemporary art gallery, competitions, prints and books. After establishing myself in Canada, I am finally getting to do what I love, and it is painting, playing with colours and experiencing the magic of colour happening on the pallet and interlacing with brush strokes on canvas.
I come from a family of artistic talents, and my first inspiration was my grand uncle Yevgeny. When I was 4 years old, I often saw him try out his brushes and oil colours on a variety of paintings which he created during his life time. Later Van Gogh’s work was my inspiration and I continue to love impressionistic paintings.
I go beyond the meaning of shapes. Having to see abstract ideas and make new meanings from shades and shapes, is my aim. I can wander for hours and discover new meanings long after a painting is done.
It is important to me to use proper techniques and high quality materials to ensure long lasting artwork.
Community Portrait Project
Culture Crawl 2026
If you’re visiting my studio at the Arts Factory during the East Side Culture Crawl 2026, I invite you to become part of my ongoing portrait project. This project began last year as a community portrait study and received an incredible response, 86 faces captured and counting. I am deeply grateful to everyone who volunteered their time, shared their stories, and trusted me with creating their portraits. Your participation helped bring this collection to life.
For the 2026 Culture Crawl, I will continue photographing interested visitors in my studio and transforming these moments into painted portraits. This year marks a new chapter for the project: connecting portraiture, community, and giving back. Portrait commissions will be available, and 100% of portrait fees collected will be donated to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) (MSF) to support their humanitarian medical work around the world.
Thank you for being part of this evolving project, whether by participating, supporting, or simply stopping by. Every portrait helps continue this story and contributes to a meaningful cause. If you are interested in participating, I invite you to visit my studio during the Culture Crawl to learn more and take part, if you wish.
About me
