Sandee Ewasiuk

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sandee Ewasiuk on the Johnny’s back patio off of Locke Street (very cool place). She is a local artist who has been here around 25 years; her art is expressionistic and whimsical. She was a delight to talk to. You can catch her on Instagram and Facebook by searching her name.

Why did you choose to come here?
Originally I’m from St. Catharines Then I went to Ontario College of Art so I was in Toronto. I met my husband while I was in art school and he is a millwright. So, when we decided to get a place together, Hamilton was a nice solution because he was working a lot in Dofasco. So, we came to Hamilton and I started working here. So, I graduated, spent a little bit of time in Toronto and then moved to Hamilton

How would you say your art has changed over the 25 years in Hamilton?
It’s changed a lot. When I look back at my art from 25 years ago, I just die because I think some people have that on their wall. I am definitely influenced by the city. So, a lot of stuff that’s going on in the city is my subject matter. I think it went from bar scenes, to kids to café scenes. You can see that difference as you go through my life. The other thing that has changed is that my style has become more refined. It changes as I learn.

Where can people currently find your artwork?
I have a studio in Dundas where I work, but it’s by appointment. I have work at the West- mount Gallery in Toronto and at Matilda Swanson in Thornbury.

What would you say is your favourite thing you’ve ever painted?
The thing that I love to paint is juxtaposition. My favourite series is a series of women, after spending some time in Newfoundland, fishing in big dresses, big hair and big make up. I love to paint those things because you don’t see them. So you’re allowed to do what you want when you turn it into a painting. I would love to do a series like that again, So it’s finding that difference again in things that we do. Things also that I like, so combining those things. When I think about my favourite thing, there’s lots but, that would be it.

What would you say is your greatest guilty pleasure?
Red wine.

That’s not a guilty pleasure, that’s an amazing pleasure!
Red wine and good coffee, which Hamilton is full of. So many great spots and great roasters.

What is your favourite outdoor space in Hamilton?
I love the Bruce trail. That would be the top. I do love the RBG (actually I teach yoga there).