There are many Canadian painters that I love and I wanted to share some of them with you. It's hard to narrow down just a few, but I thought focusing on three to five at a time would be manageable. I don't proclaim to be an expert, I just have an emotional reaction to pieces and feel drawn in by the images. And lucky me, I get to pick pieces of art for the reveals of "Leave it to Bryan" on HGTV, which is one of my favourite parts of the process (sometimes I pretend I'm buying them for myself!) It's great to see how a beautiful painting or photograph can really pull a room together.

So, here is my first go at a list:

Connie Geerts (Image shown above is "Elusive")

Love her paintings and the feeling of something almost as though it's out of focus. My favourites are her bears and Canadian geese.

Brian Harvey (Image shown above is "Dundas & Keele")

I wish I could buy every last one of his paintings. My favourite thing about some of his work is that it is so familiar and urban. He has a great talent for making something that we look at every day, and possibly take for granted, look special and beautiful.

Mario Ricci (Image shown above is "Landscape 08")

It was Mario Ricci's work that I used in the reveal of "House of Bryan", Season 1. His landscapes are simple, yet have such impact. Especially the way they were grouped in the gallery style landing of Bryan and Sarah's house. I'm not sure if his landscapes are my favourite or the emotional and loving images of dogs he paints. It sounds like a cliche, but he truly captures their soul in his work.

Have a look at the artist's websites to see even more of their stunning work. Also, take a tour through the relaxed and inviting space that is Canvas Gallery on Dupont St. at Dovercourt - they have a great collection of local and Canadian artists.

It's easy to find a Canadian artist that you love - there are so many! Check back for more posts on my favourite ones.