My first painting was born from a spark of curiosity during a sunny stay at our Northern Ontario family camp—what people in Southern Ontario lovingly call a cottage. Surrounded by the quiet hum of nature, I found myself inspired by a single photograph, a few playful doodles, and a growing fascination with colour, abstract shapes, and expressive form. What began as a simple creative experiment blossomed into a fully realized painting, marking the true beginning of my journey as an artist and illustrator.

That early piece opened the door to fine art and digital illustration, pushing me to explore how bright colours, surreal elements, and dreamlike landscapes could come together in a way that felt both imaginative and deeply human. Since then, I’ve crafted dozens of canvas art pieces—each one unique, each one a reflection of my evolving style. As I’ve grown more comfortable working in abstract art, I’ve noticed my designs shifting toward richer textures, bolder palettes, and more expressive storytelling. Many of these artworks have found homes as canvas prints, wall art, and modern home décor, bringing a little colour and calm into living rooms, cottages, studios, and creative spaces.

My background includes illustration work for a small self-syndicated cartoon strip, editorial illustrations for an online paper in the Greater Toronto Area, and a series of lighthearted cartoons for a biotech company. These experiences shaped my sense of humour, perspective, and visual storytelling—but my heart always returns to painting and design. I’m inspired by campfires, cottages, coffee, concerts, and the quiet moments that spark reflection. My art is about tranquility, connection, and the feeling of being grounded in a busy world. Each canvas tells its own story, offering viewers a moment of peace, colour, and inspiration.

Stay in wonder!

Stephen Lay