Ramp Up - StopGap Foundation Charity Paintings

Ramp Up is an annual fundraiser by StopGap Foundation, inviting artists to create one-of-a-kind pieces that are auctioned to support accessibility initiatives in local communities. It’s a meaningful intersection of art, design, and impact, and I’ve been honoured to participate for two consecutive years.

In 2022, I joined as a first-time contributor and volunteer. My piece, a quiet sunset scene, was focused on stillness and reflection, offering a moment of peace against the noise of everyday life. That year, I also created the event’s banner illustration, which is included in my portfolio.

In 2023, I returned for my second year with a more conceptual work titled “Eye Am Unique.” The piece featured 12 mini wood canvas squares, each painted with a uniquely designed eye, mounted on a ramp-shaped master canvas. The vivid colour palette and varied designs paid tribute to individuality and unity, mirroring the values behind StopGap’s mission.

Both experiences pushed me creatively and personally, allowing me to contribute artwork that supports a cause I care about, while connecting with a larger community of artists and advocates.

Both pieces were exhibited at Tangled Arts Gallery in Toronto, alongside works by other participating artists. These events not only celebrated creative expression but also highlighted the power of community in advancing accessibility through art.

See both here:

stopgap.ca/ramp-up-2023
stopgap.ca/ramp-up-2022

Role
Painter/Artist

Year
2022-23

These paintings have been part of the Foundation’s exhibitions and auctioned to the public for charity.

A collection of 12 small, colorful paintings of various artistic eyes, arranged in three rows on a pink background. Each eye has a unique design with vibrant colors and decorative elements.

“Eye am unique” - Acrylic on Wood | 2023

Pink background with a whimsical illustration of a stylized eye surrounded by pink and red hearts, and small white dots.
A colorful painting of an eye with a blue iris, surrounded by white daisies with orange centers and yellow accents on a purple background, mounted on a pink wall.
Colorful painting of an eye with stylized flames or rays around it, on a teal background with yellow dots, mounted on a pink wall.
Colorful painting of a large eye with yellow eyelashes, green iris, and white sclera, surrounded by fluffy white clouds on a purple background with small stars.
Colorful artwork of a melting eye with an iris, surrounded by sprinkles on a pink background.
A colorful abstract painting of an eye with yellow flames around it on a blue background with orange dots.
Painting of a large blue eye surrounded by blue stars and yellow dots on a yellow background.
A colorful painting of an eye with decorative lashes and patterns, on a green background with blue squiggles, mounted on a pink wall.
A colorful painting of an eye with a rainbow-colored eyelid and rainbow-colored lashes on a pink background, surrounded by multicolored dots.
A colorful painting of a green eye with a fish-like body and fins, surrounded by bubbles and abstract blue shapes, on a green canvas with a pink background.
Painting of an eye with a sunburst pattern behind it, on a pink background.
A colorful mosaic-style painting of a human eye with a green iris, pink eyelids, surrounded by yellow and blue geometric shapes, on a white canvas with pink background.
Painting of a dusk scene with power poles, trees, houses, and a crescent moon in the sky.

“Sunset” - Acrylic on Wood | 2022

Painting of a twilight scene with power lines, houses, trees, a crescent moon, and a purple sky
Painting of a twilight scene with a crescent moon, stars, and a sky with purple and pink hues. Silhouettes of trees, houses, and utility poles with birds perched on the wires.
Painting of telephone poles and houses under a twilight sky with a crescent moon, mounted inside a white frame, on a white shelving unit against a brick wall.