The Artistry of Christine Turcot

 

Christine manifests her unique art utilizing the pen and ink medium to create raw and impulsive pieces. Her intricate designs of brightly colored shapes and forms often hide images within the image which are often discovered upon meditation, the images crystallize metaphorical symbolism and subconscious-deep vistas that may be used to encapsulate the essence of personal inner strengths and observational abilities.

Typically viewed as "artistic doodles", Christine transforms crude lines into imagery that draws in the observer into a labyrinthine of exquisite shapes that co-mingle to enhance the visual experience through colourful "Mandalas", stylized "Suns" and vibratory illustrations.

All Christine's artwork is generated through insights that achieve expression with each stroke, connecting the elaborate colour scheme with the psyche of the observer.

Truly inspirational in every detail, Christine's designs are an eye opener for any art lover, especially those who seek ideas for product development in the areas of tapestries, fashion and home accessories, posters and greeting cards, noting that all featured artwork are available for licensing.

Christine encourages everyone to view her collection of Abstract Allegories and provide feedback on personal discoveries.

In a recent interview with Christine, we uncover her true self as a benevolent individual and an active volunteer.

Why did you get involved with charity work?

It's in my nature to help people and I thought it would be fun and rewarding, through my art work. It's sharing my creativity with others and letting them add to the artwork. I love running workshops with teens, kids and adults. The best part is watching everyone enjoy themselves through artistic expression.

What compelled you to start volunteering?

When I realized that my black and white drawings could be utilized as a tool for art therapy. It was at a time when I faced some personal difficulties and found great comfort focusing on volunteering via my art.

Is there one particular area to which you feel more drawn to, in terms of helping others?

Yes. Youth at risk: especially homeless teenagers - In a lot of ways, they're our future and I would like to at the very least instill some semblance of hope and encouragement in their healing process.

When did you first realize you were an artist?

In the past, I struggled and hesitated to call myself an artist due to the fact that I did not formally study art or have any type of formal training in it and also for the fact that I don't paint. I draw.

I've been doing this since I was a teenager and through the years, I perfected the "doodle" so to speak…turned it into my own type of artform. Around 1995, I started to take my art seriously, and when I sold my first piece, I sensed that I was now inside looking out. With a positive sense of belonging to an artists' community and recently social media networks, I'm finding the support to excel.

Why this type of art?

It's the only art I can do. I'm a one genre artist. It's my specialty. It's also a truth session with myself.

What does "It's also a truth session with myself" mean?

I meditate and release through my drawings.

Did your background growing up in Quebec have anything to do with your inspiration?

I was blessed in that my parents were adventurous, spontaneous and genuine. They also liked to travel a lot and I got to tag along, mostly to European and Caribbean countries. The history and culture embedded in the architecture encouraged me to connect with my surroundings and I believe it's reflected in my art. Because I grew up in a multi-cultural city, teeming with artists and visionaries of all persuasions, I found mryself more and more engrossed with all that but as the years went by, I found myself immersed in fascination with tribal art; the Aboriginal, African and East Indian. All were and still are very fascinating subjects for me.

There's a vibrancy in your art. Where does that come from within yourself?

I love vibrant colors! A friend once wrote me a note that said:

"I'm looking at the one you gave me at the art store when we first met. It always makes me feel good. You create with love and you feel that when looking at your work. Like when someone cooks a meal with TLC… same thing…"

How does the artwork represent who you are?

I've been described as having a very animated personality and I think that my work represents this statement.. I have a very busy mind and am grateful that I can release through my artwork. I consider it to be a form of meditation for me.