Joan Mackay

Paintings/Prints/Photography

Artistic Background:

I have been apprenticing at the studio of an internationally known Armenian artist, Sirak Melkonian, for the past nine years. Under his guidance I have been learning to combine old European methods with modern techniques and ideas. I finished an Art History degree by taking my final medieval requirements in Italy, at the University of Siena. Prior to moving to Prince Edward County I showed my work in Toronto, primarily at Gallery 401 and had several one artist shows as well as exhibiting at several group shows. I continue to study with Sirak and am always exploring new subjects and techniques. I have been creating and drawing most of my life.

Now, out here in Prince Edward County, painting and creating has become all of my life. In addition to my own studio work, I have begun teaching classes of beginner’s oil painting and find that I learn as much from my students’ energy and enthusiasm as I am able to impart to them.

Personal:

I was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and lived most of my growing up years in Winnipeg Manitoba. I have a lifetime background in music and taught for many years and I still play for my own enjoyment. My husband and I moved to Ottawa in 1984 and Toronto in 1993. In 1994, after 20 years working for the federal government, I retired and began to pursue a career in art. We purchased our property on Northport Road in 1996 with the idea of retiring here and have been living full time in the County since we built our home during the winter of 2001-2002. Having designed our house, I then took a short construction course and did the general contracting and site management of our project and, working with local contractors, found the entire experience an absolute joy.

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