Paulina Tokarski

Paulina Tokarski is a self-taught artist originally from central Poland, who immigrated to Canada in 1988. After college, starting family, and building two successful businesses, she moved from the west coast of British Columbia to the mountains with her family in 2017. Settling in Invermere, in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Paulina found that the outdoors became an integral part of her life, inspiring her art in profound ways.

Paulina’s journey as an artist began in her teenage years. She spent years exploring acrylic on canvas and wood, later adding acrylic inks and experimenting with mixed media. She is most fascinated by working with alcohol inks on aluminum composite and yupo paper.

Paulina has been featured on CBC radio and has exhibited in numerous exhibitions. Her work has been purchased by collectors in Canada and internationally.

Nature has been Paulina’s greatest muse. She draws her inspiration from its beauty in all its shapes, textures and colors.  She is an avid hiker, mountain climber, skier and has traveled extensively around the world. Being in the backcountry, feeling the power of the ocean, or simply taking in the beauty of nature allows her to engage in a creative practice of exploration and renewal. Paulina’s art reflects her surrounding and the place that exists within her creative mind; a place she can escape to and be lost within.

Artist Statement

My art serves as a grounding force that keeps me connected to myself and the living world around me. Through my work, I aim to capture the breathtaking shapes, colors, and textures of nature and wildlife. At times, I focus on specific subject matter, striving to create a perfect balance between abstract and realistic shapes. Other times, I let my creative mind run wild, producing abstract artwork that represents the essence of nature in its rawest form. I invite the viewer to see the natural world through my creative lens, evoking a sense of wonder and curiosity in each piece.

Alcohol ink is my main medium; it is particularly captivating to me. The interaction between the alcohol and ink is nothing short of magical as they flow, evaporate, and come to life with a drop of alcohol. The fluidity of alcohol ink allows me to create art that appears to be in motion even when dry, with rich colors and textures that captivate the eye. Some of my pieces are enhanced with acrylic paint and mixed media, adding depth and emotion to my artwork.

Working with alcohol ink is not without its challenges. One drop of alcohol can easily blend and erase hours of work, which has taught me to let go of attachment to evolving projects and embrace the unpredictable nature of the medium. I have learned to appreciate the beauty of the unexpected and to enjoy the artistic process as much as the result.

Each piece I create is an extension of my surroundings and experiences. It reflects the beauty of the natural world and is a reminder of the sanctuary it provides for the mind and body. I strive to convey this sense of marvel through my art, hoping to inspire others to appreciate and cherish the wonders of our natural world.

FOR PRIVATE/VIRTUAL VIEWING OPTIONS, COMMISSIONS, AND PRINT/CARD AVAILABILITY, PLEASE CONTACT THE GALLERY. WORLD-WIDE SHIPPING AND FLEXIBLE LAYAWAY PLANS ARE AVAILABLE.