May 6, 2026: In a conversation with Rómulo Ávila, Stella Maris explained that this exhibition stems from an intimate process of self-discovery. “The ‘Discovery’ exhibition is the result of challenging my creative mind to understand my purpose in life,” she says. “By exploring multiple disciplines, themes, and techniques, I discover my strengths and emotional motivations. Through art, I overcome challenges, promote growth, and inspire others.”

The artist, who moved to Tillsonburg three years ago, found a new source of inspiration in the local landscape. “I discovered the beauty of painting the landscapes around me. Painting trees made me feel connected to people and things I had to leave behind,” she shares.

Stella Maris’s creative process begins with quick sketches and evolves into detailed compositions on canvas. “I like working from photographs I take from different angles and with various light exposures. I paint until I feel I’ve achieved the image I envisioned,” she explains.

The exhibition features a variety of styles—from her early figurative oil works to pop art and wearable art pieces. Among her influences are iconic figures and strong cultural references. “I pay tribute to people I find interesting, themes linked to cinema, music, and my cultural roots. An example is the work ‘Sir Sweet,’ where I portray Elton John with playful elements inspired by his songs. In a more personal approach, the piece ‘Cheira Bem, Cheira a Lisboa’ is based on a fado by Amália Rodrigues, which my father loves,” she says.

She also painted Sophia Loren, evoking family memories and culinary traditions. “She appears with a ‘crown’ of pasta, celebrating my Italian heritage from my mother’s side,” she describes.

The aesthetic diversity in the exhibition reflects the artist’s evolution over the years. “After my first exhibition, I felt the need to explore other paths. I created a series of more colorful and bold works, which were part of my ‘Kissed’ exhibition at Peach Gallery in Toronto in 2018.”

Among the biggest challenges in this phase, Stella highlights landscape painting—a relatively new area for her. “Sunlight on snow brought interesting difficulties, but I believe I managed to convey the feeling I wanted.” Another challenge was the scale of the works: “I decided to paint large canvases this time, some over 1.8 meters (72 inches).”

Exhibiting at the Station Arts Centre has special meaning for the artist. “This institution played a fundamental role in my growth. I was welcomed with open arms and had incredible opportunities, from joining the board of directors to developing public projects,” she reveals.

Stella Maris has also actively contributed to the local arts community by painting murals, creating public installations, and teaching art classes. One of her works, “Autumn Leaves,” was recently selected for the “A La Carte 2026” exhibition at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, recognition that reinforces the relevance of her work.

Despite her appreciation for Tillsonburg’s calm landscapes, the artist admits to a deeper passion: “I love peaceful landscapes, but my dream is to paint the sea, the waves with white foam. Like a mermaid—my name is Stella Maris, Star of the Sea.”

It is also worth noting that Stella has, for several years, maintained a partnership with the MDC group and is currently responsible for the graphic animation of a monthly humor segment.

The “Discovery” exhibition thus promises to take the public on a journey through memory, identity, and imagination—an invitation to discover through art.

Romulo Ávila/MS

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