Denise Landriault (1955 – 2024) was a dedicated and visionary artist whose work touched the lives of many. Although she is no longer with us, her artistic legacy continues to inspire and bring joy through her vibrant, imaginative creations. Denise’s expertly crafted artwork in a variety of mixed media captivated audiences and remains a lasting testament to her unique vision and spirit.

About Me

I was born in North Bay Ontario and moved to Ottawa when I was five, making it my home ever since.

Born an artist it has been my life long journey to create. A very sensitive and creative child I spent my free time observing nature, drawing and reading. My art education began at the National gallery of Ottawa taking a drawing class with Richard Gorman. He taught me again when I was studying art at Ottawa University. My studies continued in the extensive art program at Commerce High School. Being very fortunate to have studied with such amazing teachers, most notably, Wilma Pincus and Daphne Collier. I often reflect on those amazing years when I developed my passion to become a working artist. I graduated top of the program as student most likely to succeed. I spent a year at Sheridan College studying Illustration, following that, four years in the Bachelor of Fine Arts Program at Ottawa University. I majored in drawing, painting, printmaking and non silver photography.

I began my art career after completing school and moved to my first of many studios. My work was mainly large format paintings incorporating non silver photography, xerox prints and installations.

When I began a family my interest in textiles and art doll making recurred. I loved the idea of working in a more domestic way, a closer reflection of my life at the time. Hand and machine stitchery combined with hand painting. With the dolls it became a very tactile and personal art form.

My art dolls have been exhibited across Canada, the U.S.A. and Asia. My work was chosen to be part of the Inaugural show called "selected Treasures" at the Canadian museum of Craft in Vancouver B.C.. It then went on to an extensive two year traveling show across Canada, the U.S.A. and parts of Asia.

Soon after that I was commissioned to make two dolls for the "Master Toy Makers of Canada" exhibit in Scottsdale Arizona. My dolls have also been exhibited at the Museum of Nature and the Museum of History.

In 2003 I opened a beautiful eclectic shop with a good friend, called Heavens to Betsy. After a great 12 year run we closed our beloved shop to move on in our own careers.

Since then I have been exhibiting my work on a full time basis at Orange Art gallery where I also taught mixed media art classes before Orange Gallery had to close their physical location.

I continue you to pursue new ideas and opportunities with my work.

Artist Statement

 There is an underlining fairy tale narrative in all my work. They evoke feelings of joy, spirit, and an abundance of creativity. In pursuit of excellence, I rely on intuition, skill, and drive to create. I am guided by my imagination as my work reflects my life and all the beauty which I surround myself with. I'm always blown away by the beauty of nature.  With my artist eye I see beyond the obvious and absorb everything my imagination will take in. I work in mixed media because my practice encompasses so many odd elements, mediums, and textiles. My passion for color is reflected in all my work. I find great pleasure in mixing new colors and working through ideas by way of different contrasting color palettes. Patterns are also a recurring element in my work and show up consistently through out different bodies of work in surprising and expected ways.

 With an eye for beauty, my work is a reflection of my life, to tell stories of magical places born from close observation and a deep connection to all living things. Forms such as flowers, pods branches to name but a few co mingle with vibrant color and delicate details. I have a spontaneous and intuitive approach to the way I paint. I remain free in my thoughts to create sensitive, beautiful, and delicate works of art."- Denise