Hello, I’m Helen

I’m so happy that you’re here!

From here you can explore my colourful and detailed paintings and follow along with my journey as an artist.

When I am not in my home studio in Quispamsis painting I can be found in various locations either painting Plein Air or out and about with my camera capturing reference photos or both.

Over the years, I have developed a distinctive approach to painting, combining careful observation with a strong appreciation for colour, detail and texture. I often describe my process as “sculpting with paint,” building layers of colour and brushwork to give my paintings a sense of depth and presence. Whether working in my studio or outdoors, I’m drawn to those fleeting moments and everyday details that make a place or subject memorable.

I alway approach my art with enthusiasm and energy. I paint subjects that capture my attention—from birds and flowers to coastal landscapes, shells and the changing light of the seasons.

My Plein Air Adventures

Plein Air painting is a passion of mine. It is a wonderful process to paint an experience rather than capture a moment in time. I find that I actually imprint the the experience which is so valuable when you create a studio piece based on the field study. You have a deeper emotional connection to the subject.

If time were not a factor, I like to engage all my senses, the smells, sounds, birdsong, sun on my back or in my eyes. I hope the energy and experience will resonate with you the way it does me.

And a crucial part of Plein Air painting is selection. When faced with all that visual information, it can be daunting to nail down what is to be kept and what is to be ignored. Scope creep is real. So I study the scene for composition and all the primary questions of line, darkest dark, lightest line, temperature of the light, focal point…And if I am diligent, I create thumbnails to see what changes I can make.

Typically I like holding onto my plein air pieces for a few reasons – they feel like a personal journal to me and when I look at the pieces the day comes back to me vividly. I like that. They are quietly offered for sale here

Please feel free to explore my website. And if you like, please sign up to follow my blog and occasional newsletter.  

My journey into the art world began at a young age, inspired by the natural beauty of Cape Breton that enveloped daily life. I felt myself falling in love with colours at a very young age. Have you ever seen the colour of wild blue flax? It’s embedded in my mind since I learned to walk!