I am a lifelong artist, born in London, Ontario. My passion for art was inherited from my father, a professional artist and high school teacher (at the same art school I later attended). I grew up surrounded by brushes and canvases, often contributing my own brushstrokes to his paintings.

I began my formal training at BealArt school in London. Later, while I was pursuing my undergraduate degree in Literature and then while I worked on my teaching degree, I took courses at OCADU where I honed my artistic skills and began to develop my own unique style . Drawing inspiration from my surroundings and personal experiences, my art often blends elements of realism with a touch of the surreal. I love experimenting with different art genres, including digital painting, watercolour landscapes, figurative work, abstraction and collage. 

Throughout my career as a high school art teacher, I found immense joy in teaching and was continually inspired by the energy and creativity of my students. Their enthusiasm fuelled my passion for art, reminding me of the boundless possibilities within the world of creativity.

I retired in 2012 and while I have found more time to create my art, I still struggle to find the right balance between family needs and my own progress. (But I LOVE being a Grandma!). I practice of Tai Chi, Qigong and Yoga and sing with the Toronto Beach Chorale, all activities that feed my soul (but take time away from my art)

In my ongoing artistic journey, I have found several rewarding outlets: I am a member of a weekly figure drawing group, I participate in local art shows and I volunteer at the Art Gallery of Ontario as a gallery guide. These environments keep me connected with my love for both creating and learning.


Clarice Kloezeman Thornton