April Mansilla

I believe in the need to create. The need for spirit, joy, madness, fear, sensuality, hate, hope and countless other emotions living and breathing within the paint. I believe in keeping my eyes open to indulge every moment in life, so I can capture those moments with the desire and movement of a well-told story. I believe, that when I paint, there must be an emotional connection with a subject so the viewer can feel what I am trying to portray. The vision of truth must be living within these works.

I had my first connection when I saw a book of Michelangelo’s paintings. It was at this time that I first felt the ability and responsibility an artist has to reach their viewers. Although his work is perfect when it comes to his mastery it was his ability to create emotion that allured me, not only within his works but also within myself. This emotion is what I too strive to capture like Michelangelo and countless other artists who have inspired me along the road in my continuing artistic journey. It was this emotional connection that would push me towards my artistic pursuits, teaching me to always be honest with my work and let the canvases speak for themselves.

As of now, I primary create with oil, calligraphy ink, and o...

self taught

Publications/Awards
2011-Touched by Fire –Awarded Best Emerging Artist
2011-The Hamilton Spectator –Paint it Black an article about my Art and Award
2009-Book-The Spirituality of Sex published my image Solace
2010-Prism Magazine Jan/Feb. issue published two images my Broken Heart and Amazing Grace

Shows
Upcoming –October Mental Health Awareness and Art -St Joseph Mental Health Care
On Going –James St North General Store
On Going-St .Joseph Mental Health Care (Mountain Site)
On Going –Art In The Work Place -Hamilton
Recovery Breakfast St Joseph Mental Health –Hamilton Convention Centre -2015
Supercrawal-Hamilton-2015
Touched By Fire-Toronto 2014
Touched By Fire-Toronto 2013
Touched By Fire –Coopers Fine Art Gallery Toronto2012
Touched by Fire –Coopers Fine Art Gallery Toronto-2011
Art Gallery of Hamilton –on going display since 2005
Homewood Healthcare Centre Guelph -Jan-March 2010
Guelph Art on the street-July 2010
Dundas Art Auction -2010-2015
Art Gallery of Hamilton Spring show and Sale-2009
Vineland Artfest -2009
September-Guelph Art weekends-2009
August-Oakville Art in the park-2009
August-Dundas Art in the alley-2009
July-Guelph Art on the street-2009
June-Waterloo Art Festival -2009
June-C...