I am Natalie Carmella von Schleinitz from the Edmonton, AB area. A young artist who loves painting, drawing and experimenting with colour. This natural passion led me to pursue formal training in art with my mentors Lana Kanyo, Managing Director of Master’s Art Academy and professional artist in Edmonton, AB and Larissa Nothof professional artist and private instructor in Sherwood Park, AB where I started developing my painting skills in 2021.
Inspiration and Style
As a wildlife artist, I draw inspiration from my love of animals and the wildlife surrounding my art studio in rural Edmonton, Alberta. Living in the country, I’m immersed in a rich diversity of wildlife, offering me endless opportunities to observe and connect with nature.
Collectors often ask, 'How did you come up with the concept for this painting?' or 'What was your thought process? Your art is so unique!' Ideas often come spontaneously, without a specific project in mind. They just appear! Where an image of an animal or a particular colour palette will jump into my thoughts. From there, I let the concept evolve naturally, allowing the vision to shape organically as I work.
My style has evolved over the past two years as I’ve leaned more into expressing what I feel rather than what I see. Working with acrylic paints allows me to be fully present in the moment, layering the paint with a variety of brushes, spatulas, palette knives, and other tools to create texture and depth. This process lets me cover the canvas quickly with bold and vibrant colours. Over the background, I sketch a line drawing of the animal, letting the image unfold with dabs and strokes. Incorporating some of the canvas's background and blending abstract elements with realistic representation highlights the interconnectedness between animals, humans and the environment.
I am deeply honoured that my art is part of private collections in Canada, the USA, the UK, France, and Spain. In 2023, I began exhibiting and selling my work, and with the support of my family, you can find me at local art walks and markets in the Edmonton area. I look forward to seeing you there!