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