Helen Shideler CSPWC, SCA

Award Winning Canadian Artist

Hello, I’m Helen

I’m so happy that you’re here!

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

For me, painting is a celebration of light, texture and colour. I constantly strive to hold myself to the highest standards. Usually painting in series, I like to explore my subjects often in various mediums – focusing on intimate detail and saturated colour. I like to imagine that I am sculpting with paint. Over the years, this approach has allowed me to developed my distinctive style.

I alway approach my art with enthusiasm and energy. My preferred subjects are from the natural world, in particular flowers, animals and birds and sea & landscapes and sometimes people.

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.

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.

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!