ABOUT THE ARTIST
Hi, welcome to my site!
My name is Iwona Kmiec.
I am on a mission to capture joy by rendering enduring scents and help you discover and eternize your favourite scent!
I am a painter, digital illustrator, interior designer, instructor, and jewellery maker. I am also a lifetime learner, curious observer, art lover, mother of three beautiful children, wife, gardener, cook, nature and sun seeker, sports enthusiast, music listener (Chopin fan), family entertainer, and a dog person.
I gained my art education credentials in Poland and Canada. Studied Interior Design (MFA) at the Fine Arts Academy in Gdansk, Poland, and Environmental Design (Diploma) at the Ontario College of Art (now OCAD University), in Toronto, Canada.
I make art that connects people through “visual scent”. Inspired by nature and personal experiences, I create abstract portraiture and landscapes, using scent as a metaphor in my explorations. What I find exciting about my work is discovering interpretations of human emotions through scent. By focusing on empowering memories I create visual anchors to echo strength, resilience and joy.
My process begins with intention, the most important part of art making , finding an idea which represents a desired scent. Physical execution starts with applying textures with modelling paste, then continues with mark-making, using pencils, spatulas, brooms, and home made tools. Next, I apply colour. My colour palette reflects the atmosphere of the emotions attached to a particular moment. The result is often surprising and accidental, but always directed towards a specific concept.
In my digital art I use an iPhone equipped with the Paper application and my index finger serves as a drawing tool. Next, I use iPad with my favourite application, Procreate. This tool is often used to explore ideas, colour schemes, and composition. Hand sketches and photos serve as a references as well. This amalgamation of techniques allows me to create work which can be shared easily on social media.
On the personal note…over the years I was busy raising a family, worked on design and art projects, volunteered at my kids’ schools, created tons of crafts, and learned new skills along the way through personal studies. Also, for four years, I worked as an instructor at OCAD University teaching a “Concept Drawing” course.
As a member of the Women’s Art Association of Canada I exhibit at the Dignam and Ruth Upjohn Galleries in Toronto, and my artwork can be found in private collections in such countries as Canada, US, Poland, UK, and Germany.