A passionate, creative
experience… This describes my daily existence. I am Cassandra Russell, a
visual artist residing in Bradford. Originally a graphic designer, I combine my talent for
arrangement with my love of colour to create my artwork. I currently add watercolour,
acrylics, and collage to print making techniques to create mixed media
paintings. My work tells an imaginative story revealing my inspired intentions.
My life has been highlighted with
imaginative endeavors. Everything from art, crafts, creative writing, music, to
photography were at one time my obsession. In addition, I traveled to the art
galleries of
France, Italy, Switzerland, Trinidad & Tobago, The Dominican Republic, Cuba, The United States as well as Canada's Rockies and East Coast. In each place, I paid attention to how
differently art manifested. There seemed to be a similar underlying quality to
what moved each artist. This supports my belief that creativity is universal.
The turning point towards an
artistic existence occurred during my study of Philosophy at the
University of Guelph. My interest in creativity was ignited during a Sociology
lecture that linked the industrial revolution to our society’s frustration. “We
are like assembly line workers unable to see the end product of our work. I
challenge you to make something from start to end to satisfy your innate need
to create and complete!” the professor urged. My inner artist perked up at
these words. The suppressed need to invent began to shiver in my mind.
I began to encourage my buried artistic
needs and abilities. A self study of computer graphics and a 3 year position as
Publicity Coordinator for my Sorority became my outlets. This resulted in a
packed portfolio of marketing materials. This was my ticket to my first job
with at a design firm where my true skills were sharpened by several years of
professional work.
When I first moved to Bradford, I did not know anyone and spent much time going for walks
with the family’s dog. It was during this time that I really began to observe
the outdoor environment. Every artist must learn to look at and really see with
practiced eyes. I began to absorb Mother Nature’s tiniest embellishments
throughout the seasons. I really view this time as a preparation for my current
artistic work which usually incorporates natural undertones.
With new found inspiration, I
decided to take an art class to enhance my design skills. The instructor,
renowned artist Donnah Cameron II, impressed me with her dramatic teaching
style. As I viewed her flare for colour, I immediately knew that I had stumbled
upon something magical.
Six years later, my persistence
and self education has blossomed into a professional art career. I now
contribute to art shows across Ontario and galleries in Toronto. My artwork can be viewed at What’s In Store on Newmarket Main Street. I currently teach collage card workshops at Whatnot’s Craft
and Ceramic Studio also in Newmarket. In addition, I am active in the arts community and serve as the Publicity Coordinator
for the Society of York Region Artists. At home in Bradford, surrounded by treed landscapes, I find the area’s natural
features a vital part of my inspiration. With the eye of a designer and the
heart of a painter I have photographed the misty marsh, age old trees, and
whimsical flowers. I have learned to integrate my years of computer experience with my art
background. My photography
continues to focus on Bradford’s hidden treasures of scenery which compel me to pay
attention to the delicious details. It is these fine points that translate into
to the lively foundation of my paintings.
An enduring affection for
simplicity and colour has translated itself into my designs. I witness daily
how the components of my past have merged into my artwork’s present expression. I am energized by watching people take in my work. I create for the audience
who feels the same exhilaration as I do generating the images. My blog is
my personal creative megaphone to the world. I invite you to visit and
experience my world firsthand. -CR
(from my column in Era Banner - Bradford Living Newspaper April 2005)
