Discipline Category: Illustration

Amanda Kostas (she/they) is a multi method artist whose work is deeply influenced by the beauty of nature and the intricate details of tattoo art. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for capturing the essence of her surroundings, Amanda's pieces reflect a harmonious blend of delicate lines and vibrant washes of colour.

Inspired by her grandmother, who nurtured her artistic spirit from a young age, Amanda channels this encouragement into their work, exploring themes of growth and transformation. Her art invites viewers to appreciate the subtle nuances of the natural world, while also paying homage to the personal connections that shape her creative journey.

Based in Winnipeg, MB Canada on Treaty 1 land, Amanda continues to evolve their practice, striving to inspire others through her unique vision and dedication to her craft.

Grant is a Canadian visual artist based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and was short-listed for the Manitoba Society of Artists 2024 Open Juried Competition and Exhibition.  “My main artistic expression is painting.  However, I’ve done print making, sketching, photography, wood carving, and furniture making.

“I have always viewed the world around me in pictures, images, colours, shapes, sizes, patterns and ideas.  My love of nature and the outdoors led to a strong interest in the Canadian art movement pioneered by Tom Thomson, Emily Carr and the Group of Seven artists.  Viewing the Tom Thomson sketches and Group of Seven paintings at the National Gallery has had a significant influence on me.  In my childhood, living beside renowned artist Ivan Eyre, provided an up close glimpse into the life of an artist.  I am grateful to my art teachers for their instruction, direction and encouragement.  Methods and techniques from those classes are evident in the creative process of my art making today.”

For more than 30 years, I’ve been both an artist and an art teacher, passionately bringing creativity to life in our community. My focus has always been on making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone—from children in after-school programs, Seniors in local recreation centers, and adult art classes at Killarney Heritage Home for the Arts, United Arts Center Pilot Mound, and several other in Winnipeg. My art is deeply inspired by the natural beauty of southern Manitoba, and I love working in oil, acrylic, and watercolor. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching in various art galleries and studios across southern Manitoba, and it’s been an incredible journey of sharing the joy of art with those around me.

Chris Foster creates semi-representational landscape and flower paintings in oil, acrylic and watercolour that use expressive colour and light … sprinkled with a touch of whimsy.

Chris has always been an admirer of the brushstrokes and techniques of Chinese/Japanese art and will often incorporate some line work influenced by those cultures.  A more recent discovery has been creating collage and mixed media pieces....again embracing line work and shapes.

​Growing up on the Canadian prairies  -Chris now spends 5 months every year in the beauty of the forests and lakes of the Canadian Shield.  This has provided her with landscapes that offer a kaleidoscope of colour and amazing light which provide never ending inspiration.  This home turf coupled by some amazing cultural world trips have become her painting catalogue.