‘The Italian Grocer’
24 x 24 inches, acrylic & oil on canvas
Available in-person, June 26th - July 1st at Slice of Life Gallery, Vancouver BC.
Available paintings will be posted online after July 1st
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More about the painting…
“Italian grocery stores are my favourite places to browse, and I think I’ve found a new go-to spot. After asking for recommendations on Instagram, one suggestion stood out and it’s featured in the second Italian painting of this series. (The name will be revealed in the second painting, where it’s quite literally part of the scene.)
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the owner and swept into a space that feels like a slice of Italy—the smells, the shelves of specialty foods, the espresso, and the warmth of the people. I told the owner about this painting series, and he excitedly pointed out some of their staple products—one of which is Rummo pasta. So here she is, in all her glory.”
“The colour palette came together instinctively, and only later did I realize it echoes the Italian flag—completely unplanned, but kind of perfect.
This piece is a reminder that beauty and culture don’t require a passport. We’re lucky in Vancouver: you can step outside and taste the world, often within a few blocks. For years, I chased a feeling - moving from place to place, hoping each one would help me figure out who I was. But eventually I realized: if you’re always running from something or chasing the next big thing, the answers won’t come. Healing happens when you slow down ground yourself.”
“Staying put especially in a city as tough and isolating as Vancouver can be was deeply uncomfortable at first. I was lonely and depressed and really struggled to find my community. But over time, by allowing myself to stay, I found connection, I found my people, and I fell in love with this city.”