My Story
Andrew was born in Calgary, Alberta and has lived there all of his life. Having lost most of his sight at an early age, Andrew has always pursued his passions with a sense of curiosity, joviality, and thoughtful anticipation. Over the years his sight has deteriorated further, but Andrew’s artwork has grown more complex and evolved as he continues to develop his process.
For many years, Andrew has participated in programs from the National access Arts Centre (NaAC), Canada’s oldest and largest disability art organization. Andrew also participates in the Special Olympics competing in snow-shoeing, power lifting and cross country skiing. Andrew also plays the guitar and sings.
As a visual artist, Andrew utilizes three mediums: fiber works, images crafted from acrylic paint and marker, and Venetian plaster. He approaches themes of the outdoors and wilderness often in direct response to his experiences. His creations are developed based on the alertness of Andrew’s senses and through touch.
MISSION
Artist in the Dark offers online sales of various original artwork and prints from a blind artist who brings curiosity and courage to each piece.
VISION
Artist in the Dark was developed with the intention to create awareness in the arts community so that individuals with visual impairments, or any disabilities, are more included and are better represented.
The manner in which Andrew creates his artwork is quite extraordinary. Andrew is able to pay attention to the smallest details of his surroundings, then remembering what he has learned and applying it to his artwork.
When making art, Andrew orients himself with the same spatial reasoning he utilizes with his white cane. Navigating in the city and navigating in his art are related experiences. Andrew’s practice is a form of respite from the world; a space where he can relax and reflect upon his experiences.
Through the years, Andrew has had the opportunity to participate and host many workshops developing reciprocal learning experiences. In his workshops, people can participate in an exercise in empathy, through learning Andrew’s specialized techniques of making art with Venetian plaster and paint. An example of this was when Andrew taught both children and adults alike in his Art in the Dark workshop series. This is but one example of Andrew’s dedication and advocacy using empowerment through art for people living with disabilities.