Gillian’s life has been rich with adventure and service, surrounded by cherished friends and family. She spent nine transformative years in Haiti, where she created and directed a student sponsorship program that provided education and meals for 7,000 children each day. Upon returning to Canada, she enjoyed a successful real estate career on Vancouver Island, which ultimately allowed her to transition into her long-awaited role as a full-time artist. After 40 years and 26 moves, she and her husband have returned to their childhood village, finally finding their home sweet home again.

Gillian is now a proud member of the Schoolhouse Art Collective in Elora, Ontario, where she collaborates with 18 talented artists in a shared studio space. This picturesque town, steeped in artistic heritage and natural beauty, hosts various art shows throughout the year, making it a true gem to explore.

You can view Gillian’s artwork at the Schoolhouse Art Collective, located in the Elora Centre for the Arts (ECFTA) at 75 Melville St. (South Entrance), Elora, ON, Canada.

Gillian Shoemaker is an accomplished painter. Her artwork is a balance of high-detail realism with a softness created with many layers of paint and tiny brushes.

She finds the intense detail and brushwork in her FLORAL series to be contemplative and relaxing. Each painting breathes with a sensitive softness while portraying an old-world charm. Gillian shares that being a floral artist was never a conscious decision. She painted one flower and then another and another and has never felt finished.

Inspired by a full-colour pallet, Gillian often wonders if God has more colours to debut in heaven. Her message to artists is, “Practice makes improvement!”. The more you do- the better you get. Start by trying many different styles, markmaking, and textures. Treat yourself to good quality products. Use them, don’t save them! She has learned that quality makes a difference in her experience and the finished product.

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