Today on the Artalogue, Canadian artist Simon Hughes chats with Madison Beale from his Winnipeg studio about his creative beginnings, Canadian art and his career. This episode is all about finding your artistic voice in unexpected places.

Hughes reveals how he developed his unique approach that treats watercolors, drawings and canvas paintings as equal  expressions, not relegating drawings to mere preparatory sketches. His technique of building translucent layers of color, inspired by Paul Klee, creates a distinctive visual depth that characterizes his work. From his early fascination with Hieronymus Bosch and Surrealism to his later dialogue with Canadian art history, Hughes traces the evolution of his artistic vision with refreshing candor.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Hughes discusses his unexpected path from graduating from the University of Manitoba to working in film production between art projects, waiting eleven years before pursuing his MFA in California, and discovering surprising similarities between Winnipeg's and Southern California's art scenes. His recent exhibition "Fire, Flood and All the Feelings" at Blouin Division showcases his ability to blend contemporary suburban landscapes with spiritual elements, creating a modern counterpoint to Lawren Harris's iconic Canadian wilderness paintings.

What makes this discussion particularly valuable is Hughes' practical wisdom about navigating an art career. Rather than waiting for institutional recognition, he emphasizes creating your own opportunities through community engagement and persistent creation. "Wherever you are, that's the place to be," he advises, offering a refreshing perspective on building an authentic artistic life regardless of location or circumstances.

Follow Simon's work at his studio gallery space Fire Door in Winnipeg or on Instagram @simonmhughes to discover more about his artistic journey.

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Madison Beale, Host
Croocial, Production

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