‘A portrait of happiness’–How an artist colours your soul with joy

Artist among two Manor Parkers featured in the 2023 New Edinburgh Studio Tour

By Christiane Kirkland October 1, 2023

Before working as an architect in Ottawa, Beth Stikeman studied art and architecture at McGill University and at the École du Louvre in Paris. Photo: Doug Banks — Beth Stikeman Photo: Doug Banks

A palette of joyful colours that captures all of your senses! That is what Manor Park artist Beth Stikeman offered the viewers with her collection of beautiful paintings seen during the New Edinburgh Studio Tour (NEST) on September 23rd and 24th.

What a privilege it was to have met and interviewed such a talented painter.

Apart from being an artist, Beth worked as an architect for 20 years. Her passion for painting now fills her life with a sense of freedom and endless creativity. “I always want to paint,, she says with a twinkle in her eyes. “It brings me peace, joy and focus.”

How does Beth produce such marvels? With acrylic paint, graphite and crayons as her media, abstracts as her subjects, and vibrant and yet soothing colours of turquoise, pink, yellow and orange, Beth brings the viewer into an enchanted musical atmosphere. She has been told again and again by viewers that they see music, rhythm and movement in her art. What a wonderful portrait of happiness!

Connecting with viewers

Where does Beth get her inspiration? Nature and outdoor activities are her main sources. “ I want to express my feelings and ideas, and I hope that the paintings speak to the viewer. It is exciting when I feel someone is connecting with the work.

“Making that connection is a two-way process–I share my vision in the painting, and the viewers react with their own experiences and thoughts which may be similar or different. That’s OK.”

She adds, “It’s about connecting, and communicating. I want to move the viewer.”

Meeting with Beth Stikeman is a rich experience not to miss. Her enthusiastic and warm personality undeniably carries into her paintings with lightness of heart, uplifting spirit, and spark of joy through colours. Now that’s inspiration!

Beth and Martha Nixon will be two Manor Park artists participating in NEST.

Beth and Martha were the Manor Park artists among 29 participating in NEST.