Elena Espinoza was instinctually drawn to the talent of graphic designer John Cinquemani when the artists' village co-op she belonged to commissioned him to design a logo years ago. Now partners in life and business, the pair's gallery Art@231, which opened in November 2014, is the culmination of their commitment to craft.
With bold blocks of coloured canvasses lining an adjacent corridor, and autumnal crimsons of a sunset cityscape painted by a local artist in the background, the duo's warm hospitality to fellow artists and curiosity seekers alike stems from their own experiences in the art world.
Specializing in editorial illustration and graphic design after graduating from Sheridan College, John taught in Italy before moving to Toronto to work in art direction for a film company. It was painting his grandmother's portrait that made him aware of his skills in oil painting. His painting style, which he describes as "figurative representative oils with a touch of illustration," complement his pop-up graphic art and were what attracted Elena. "I loved John's work," Elena says of their initial encounter.
Specializing in drawing and painting with a degree from OCAD, Elena's acrylic paintings, which focus on expressionism, Canadian landscapes and textures, have evolved since her first drawings of Peanuts characters as a child. Working at the Art Gallery of Burlington teaching children art, Elena's work has been showcased throughout Southwestern Ontario and her experience has proven invaluable as Art@231's manager.
