Biography

My family fostered the arts, my grandmother was a painter and seamstress, my father an artistic woodworker, my uncle a photographer, and the list goes on.

My name is Sheila Kernan, and I’m an artist who explores the interplay between realism and abstraction. I’m inspired by the world around me, and I strive to capture the beauty and emotion of everyday life. I use a variety of mediums and techniques, and I’m always experimenting and pushing the boundaries of my art. My work is a reflection of who I am and the experiences that have shaped me. I’m passionate about my art and my process is deeply personal and intuitive.

My artistic journey began at a young age, when I discovered my desire for creating. As a child, I cultivated and explored a wide range of mediums and techniques, from drawing and painting to photography and sculpture. Taking art lessons from local artists, attending international art conferences, and seeking out a high school that specialized in the arts, so I could always be learning and growing my practice.

My family fostered the arts; my grandmother was a painter and seamstress, my father a woodworker, and my uncle a photographer. It’s clear that art is in my DNA and it is no surprise to my family that I would seek the life of an artist!

I grew up with four brothers and one sister in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. There was never a dull moment in our household and in in fact creativity was infused in all aspects of my life as a result of my large family.

My willingness to take risks, openness to embrace the unexpected, and pure tenacity lead me to study painting at the Alberta University of the Arts in Calgary. In 2006, I graduated from AUArts with a BFA majoring in painting. I quickly set out to fulfill my life’s purpose, being a full time artist and to spark joy in others through my creativity.

Fast-forward 17 years later, as a full time artist my work is avidly collected. It can be found in numerous private, corporate, and public art collections across North America, Europe, Australia, and Africa. I have gone on to showcase my work nationally in more than 40 exhibitions. And in 2017, I was awarded a lifetime achievement award as the recipient of the ACAD Alumni Legacy Award.

I continue to push my boundaries and create meaningful work in my Calgary studio.

“I am creating a shared space where the viewer can feel like they're part of the creative process, even if only through the act of interpretation. The work becomes a catalyst for nostalgia.”

“Aiming to tap into something fundamental about the human experience of art - the appeal of texture, color, and form. I make work that speaks to the child within all of us, reminding us of the wonder and delight of a sensory experience.”

“Art isn't just about the finished product, but about the way it changes the way you relate to the world around you.”

"When I paint I am attempting to share my journeys in a unique and vibrant way utilizing art to express who I am and what I love."