"Nature is never still; it’s always changing, and I aim to capture that energy and movement in my paintings."

Artist Tiffany Blaise paints bold and dramatic paintings inspired by the breathtaking natural wonders of British Columbia and her adventures abroad. A defining moment in her artistic journey occurred during a residency in a national park near Sydney, where she realized her deep passion for painting the wilderness. Since then, Tiffany has continually drawn imagery from her hikes and adventures. She works in her studio in East Vancouver, often listening to music or podcasts while she paints.

In this interview, Tiffany shares her artistic process, sources of inspiration, and her journey as an artist.

Do you have other creative hobbies?

When I’m not in the studio painting, I’m usually cooking up a storm or spending time outdoors in nature. I love hiking, surfing, being on the beach, and exploring new cities. Whenever I visit a new city, I make a point of seeing its art galleries and museums.

What are you most proud of—whether in art or another part of your life?

I’m most proud of my decision to pursue my art wholeheartedly and make it my main focus. It was a leap of faith, but the best decision I’ve ever made.

Do you have any studio rituals that help you get into a creative flow?

I like listening to music while I paint. Depending on my mood, it can range from Ryuichi Sakamoto to The Strokes. I also enjoy browsing my collection of art books for inspiration and learning about other artists’ journeys.

How do you structure your day?

I usually start with urgent tasks and emails in the morning, then paint until mid to late afternoon. Sometimes, I get so engrossed in painting that I lose track of time! In the evenings, I often work on inventory or applications, and I love researching and reading about art. Being an artist is truly an all-consuming passion.

Where do you find inspiration for your art?

I’m deeply inspired by dramatic seas and skies. I often find inspiration in the coastlines of British Columbia, where I live, as well as places I’ve traveled. Some of my favorite locations to paint include Tofino on Vancouver Island and the San Juan Islands in Washington.

Tell us about your evolution as an artist.

I studied product and graphic design in university because I didn’t think it would be possible to make a living as an artist. After a decade working in design, I started painting on weekends for fun. When people began asking if my work was for sale, it sparked the idea that I could actually make a living from my art. The transition to becoming a full-time artist was gradual, but now that I’m doing it, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

What is the most interesting observation someone has made about your work?

People have said my work feels “alive,” which I love because my goal is to capture the life force of nature. Someone also once remarked that my artwork reflects me, that they can really see me in it, and that’s a beautiful compliment.

How do you decide when an artwork is finished?

The artwork tells me. I just get a feeling that nothing more needs to be added for it to have its full impact.

Is there an artwork from another artist that has had a significant impact on you?

So many! Cy Twombly's Bacchus resonates with me because of its raw gesture and scale; the bold red, almost blood-like marks are so powerfully emotive. I'm also deeply inspired by William Turner's Light and Colour (Goethe's Theory) The Morning after the Deluge Moses Writing the Book of Genesis. Turner's use of light, movement, and framing is incredible, and his work is timeless, which is the same quality I strive for in my own art.

What’s your favorite museum?

It might be the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. I love the architecture of the former train station and the stunning exhibition halls. It houses some of my favorite Impressionist works by Monet and Van Gogh, which I never tire of seeing.

Is there anything else you’d like to share to help viewers better understand your work?

Transformation and dynamism are at the heart of my landscapes and seascapes. Nature is never still; it’s always changing, and I aim to capture that energy and movement in my paintings.

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If you enjoyed this article about Tiffany Blaise's life and artwork, we recommend reading about Benjamin Thomas's impressionist cloud paintings and Crystal DiPietro's expressionist Western landscape paintings.