Owner Spotlight: Vargas Reis
I’m Carolina Vargas Reis, a Canadian contemporary artist.
I look forward to sharing my story. I hope that you will enjoy getting to know me better.
I began painting when I was really young. I remember having a small “handmade cards” business when I was in second grade. In high school, I won several juried contests for artworks involving the human figure. I was also fortunate enough to have a talent for mathematics, and so I went to university to pursue an Engineering Degree and then one in Finance. Throughout the course of my formal education, I continued painting and photographing on the side. But, after working for several years on Bay Street as an investment banker, I finally decided it was time to return to my true passion for art. And since then, I have been painting non-stop.
I became a professional artist about six years ago, and have produced numerous creations that are a compilation of emotions and life experiences based on a contemporary perspective. As a self-taught artist, my technique is anything but conventional. My canvases are often a combination of drawing, painting, waxing, and collaging. Through my art, I explore my own experience with social, political, and emotional issues in the form of paintings or photographs. It allows me to express myself and lure others into a world of wonder and emotions as well.
Over the years, I have gained substantial recognition and have been able to exhibit my work in Canada, the U.S.A, and South America. My work currently sells all over the planet, and that gives me great joy.
However, my most satisfying work was when I exhibited my piece “Children of War” in Toronto. The work was so powerful that people cried as they read the story behind it. I knew I had made a difference with it, and I was proud of myself.
When making art, I absolutely love getting into the creative process before starting the actual painting or creating the final product. At the same time, I specifically enjoy my job when I witness people’s emotions when they see my final work.
Being creative, unique, and provocative has helped me reach beyond my limits and take my creativity to new heights. But, being accountable, focused, and integrable has helped me build connections with my audience.
The uniqueness of my work, from the ideas for paintings (no painting is done twice) to creating my own process, has all played a key roll in my success. My unique process gives my work a different sheen that can’t be achieved any other way.
When I am not at work, I play ultimate frisbee at an elite level. I have competed at the World Championships, and am scheduled to compete again this year in the Netherlands and Australia. Besides sports, I also enjoy helping the children that currently are in (or have been in) countries at war. I do my best to create awareness about their challenging situations and raise money for their benefit.
I have enjoyed sharing my story about the things which matter to me and how they influence the way I do business.
If you or someone you know could benefit from my expertise as a Canadian contemporary artist, I invite you to get in touch. Please visit my website at www.carolinavargas.com.
Sincerely,
Carolina