Patricia Sparks was born and raised in Halifax. Inspired by the beautiful Nova Scotia landscape, she began painting at age 11. As an adult she has always been drawn to colour and art in many forms, leading to successful careers in makeup and nail artistry and photography. After a particularly stressful year, Sparks sought an escape and once again picked up her paintbrushes. This outlet to relieve stress soon reignited her passion as painter. She has been painting ever since, trying different mediums and finding a favourite in oils.
When did you come to Powell River?
I'm originally from Nova Scotia and moved to Powell River in 2000. I left a few years ago but visit my family here every month.
How did you get into painting?
I started painting when I was 11, painting landscapes with oil paints on canvas. I sold my first painting when I was 12. Then I didn't pick up paints again until I was 52, but I've always dabbled in all different types of art.
What is your background in art?
I'm a makeup and nail artist and I've always liked to draw. I was going through a very stressful time and one of my nail clients told me I should try painting since I painted such cute things on her nails, so I went to the dollar store and bought a bunch of craft paint and a big three-foot by four-foot canvas. From there on I was hooked.
Who and what inspires your work?
Since I started painting again I've developed a passion for painting portraits. I also enjoy painting flowers and animals. Having black children I have close ties in the black community and I've met a lot of beautiful strong black women, which has inspired me to paint a collection that shows their beauty. My children and my parents have been especially supportive. Growing up, my parents always encouraged me in whatever hobby I was interested in, my dad especially. Whenever I found a new hobby he would take me to the craft store and buy all the supplies I needed. My daughter recently came back from a trip to Italy and brought me handcrafted paint brushes. I was ecstatic, to say the least.
Where can people see your work?
You can see my art at instagram.com/patriciasparksart/ and River City Coffee has a few pieces. I'm hoping in the near future I can transition to being a full-time artist.
