Brigitte Boulay - Artist
Visual Portfolio:
Artist Statement:
Throughout my journey, I have found that art transcends boundaries and speaks a universal language. It is through this lens that I channel my experiences and emotions into my creations, hoping to invoke a similar sense of wonder and introspection in those who view my work. My travels have exposed me to diverse cultures and landscapes, each leaving a mark on my artistic perspective. Whether it's the vibrant markets of Provence, France, the serene sounds of the Caribbean Sea, or the bustling streets of Madrid, Spain, each place brought me wonderful experiences that enrich my palette. I believe that art should not only be seen but felt, resonating deep within the soul of the observer. It is this connection, this shared moment of beauty and reflection, that I strive to achieve with each brush or knife stroke. Art, for me, is an ever-evolving journey of discovery and expression. It is my hope that through my work, I can inspire others to see the world with fresh eyes and an open heart, to find beauty in the unexpected and to appreciate the intricate tapestry of life that surrounds us. This passion, this drive to create and share, is the essence of who I am as an artist.
Brigitte can be reached by Email, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn. C'est toujours un plaisir pour Brigitte de communiquez avec vous en Français!
La vie est plus belle avec l'art!
Brigitte is a visual artist and published author/poet. Brigitte's life was infused with art for as long as she can remember. Her professional training was taken at the University of Pennsylvania, Algonquin College, Ottawa School of Art and private lessons. Brigitte often attends workshops and classes to continue learning and expanding her skills. She is a member of the Ottawa Art Gallery and the West Carleton Arts Society. Her natural ability to bring her writings and visual art to life was nurtured, influenced and inspired by her family. Her Great-Grandfather was a master violinist and conductor for the New York Symphony Orchestra as well as a trailblazer in the recordings of traditional Quebecois jigs. Arthure Joseph Boulay's (AJ) recordings can be found at the National Archives of Canada. Her Grandfather was a professional Saxophone artist and visual artist, and her Father was a part-time musician and artist. Her Mother was an incredible self taught artist who had a huge impact on her; she nurtured Brigitte's natural artistic talents. Brigitte’s stationery displays an innate musical appreciation of big bands and orchestras and the glamour from the Hollywood glory days. It was an honor to have been chosen to design stationery for Sophie Gregoire (wife of Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada), The Archbishop of Canada, President and Vice-Chancellor of McGill University, Vice President Canada at Rio Tinto, President of NSERC, President of Revlon to name a few. Her creations can be found in various art galleries, cafe's, bistros, boutiques and art shows. Brigitte accepts commission pieces and it is an absolute pleasure for her to create something personal. She is a published poet, author and co-author. "We Live in the Shadows" is a compilation of personal stories of those who live on the streets. It was published in Ottawa, ON. Brigitte also co-authored "Ruby Red Shoes", a book about female empowerment, "Thin Places: The Ottawan Anthology", an anthology of the writings of various authors as well as "Love and Catastrophe - Poetre".
About the Artist:
Future/Present Shows, Fairs & Displays:
Ottawa Farmer's Market - Landsdowne Park - April 19, 2025 Twist Gallery - Queen St., Toronto, ON - Feb.-April 2025
Past Shows, Fairs & Displays:
BeYOUtiful Women's Expo - Ottawa, ON The Art Factory - Renfrew, ON Galerie d'Art Riverside - Wakefield, QC Zephyr -Kanata,ON Joy - Pop-up - Ottawa, ON Art House Cafe - Ottawa, ON The Twisted Fork - Perth, ON TD Place- Ottawa, ON Kings Own Barbershop- Ottawa, ON Wall Candy Art Show- Ottawa, ON Frou-Frou by Pat- Ottawa, ON Capital Wedding Show- Ottawa, ON Byward Market - summer market- Ottawa, ON Zola's Family Restaurant- Ottawa, ON Bathhouse- Ottawa, ON Myers - Ottawa, ON RAW Art Show- Ottawa, ON Concave Gallery - Perth, ON
Awards/Nominations:
Book of the Year - Ottawa FACES Awards - 2021 CBC Trailblazers Award: 2019 Ottawa Wedding Awards: 2018 & 2019 Ottawa FACES Awards: 2018 & 2019 Spirit of NSERC: 2018 Extraordinary Achievement Award: 2015 Government of Canada Merit Award: 2008 Communications Awards of Excellence: 2000 Public Service Award of Excellence: 1998 Of all the accolades and nominations Brigitte has received for her work, her most prestigious and heart-centered is receiving an Eagle Feather for her work in helping our homeless. *The Great Golden Eagle feather was picked up by a feather carrier in the Huron (Iroquois) nation of Quebec, Canada. Brigitte’s heart is very close to those living on the streets. She was the President & founding member of Shadow Ottawa. Shadow provided assistance to our homeless and those living in poverty in Ottawa, ON. Brigitte was overtaken by sadness after doing street outreach one day and she wrote a poem, "We live in the shadows". The poem became a song: We live in the shadows - YouTube. All artists' information can be found on YouTube for this song. A portion of all sales goes directly to help our homeless and those living in poverty in Ottawa, ON!