biography
Today, I do what I have always done - art.
Since childhood I crafted, painted, and tailored my clothes. The communist minded older generation did not support my expressive
nature, but it did provide me with great satisfaction and popularity among peers. In the late 80's, the communist oppression,
deepened our desire to explore and ultimately escape from our native land for a better life.
In 1986, a refugee camp in Italy became our new home. We hoped this would lead to a promising future in Canada. Italy
provided me with great exposure and opportunity to build on my artistic addiction. I met a number of artists who influenced and
shaped my methods. I experimented with textile and porcelain painting, which provided my family with nominal income.
In 1988, we arrived in Canada. Leaving Europe behind and adjusting to the North American culture was a challenging but an
inspirational process. After years of hard work and patience, my husband and I where able to successfully establish our selves
and provide our children with opportunities that we only dreamed of.
Today, I cherish my moments as a painter. With continuous influence from my past and daily life, my paintings are works of
passion, creativity, history, opportunity and sometimes simplicity. I hope that art continues to fuel my passion for life and
encourages others to attain their desired dream.
I am living my dream.
I was born in eastern Poland to a lower class family. Over the
course of many years I have built a wonderful marriage and
raised two healthy and successful boys...well , they are grown
men now.
Halina Grzyb