Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario - Sam Paonessa AOCA, OSA, a distinguished artist with a career
spanning over 40 years, is set to captivate audiences with his latest exhibition, "Watermark" at
the Joyner Gallery of the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre. The show will run from August 6 to
29, 2024, offering an immersive exploration of water and its multifaceted themes throughout the
seasons.
Paonessa, a member of esteemed organizations including the Ontario Society of Artists and Oil
Painters of America, has garnered recognition for his mastery of plein air painting. His
accolades include winning "Best Water" and ""Best Nocturne" in the prestigious Plein Air Salon
Competition, highlighting his exceptional skill in capturing the essence of natural elements.
His extensive body of work has been featured in prominent galleries such as the Robert
McLaughlin Gallery in Oshawa and The Frederick Horsman Varley Museum in Unionville, to
name a few. Notably, his coin design, "Canadian Icons," was selected as a finalist for the Royal
Canadian Mint 2017 150th Collection, commemorating Canada's sesquicentennial anniversary.
"Watermark" invites viewers to delve into the enchanting world of water through Paonessa's
paintings. Each piece showcases the artist's adept use of brushstrokes, palette knives, and
unconventional tools, resulting in mesmerizing compositions that celebrate the interplay of light,
texture, and reflection on water surfaces.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind his work, Paonessa shares, "My love for painting continues
to grow as I observe the world around me. I draw inspiration from nature in all its forms, from the
grandest landscapes to the tiniest blossoms. The opportunity to witness nature’s wonders—let
alone interpret them—brings me closer to God."
As viewers immerse themselves in "Watermark,” the artist hopes to evoke emotions of serenity,
peace, and reverence for the divine creator. His paintings serve as a testament to his
unwavering dedication to both artistic excellence and spiritual growth, inviting audiences to
embark on a profound journey of reflection and appreciation.
The public is invited to the show's opening reception on Sunday, August 11, from 2:00 to 4:00
pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to personally engage with the artist, savour the artwork,
and connect with fellow art appreciators over refreshments and nibbles. This event is
generously supported by Château des Charmes, providing an assortment of fine wines.
In conjunction with the upcoming exhibition, the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre is hosting a
Plein-Air Workshop titled "Capturing Nature" led by Sam Paonessa on August 17 & 18.
Participants will learn essential techniques and principles for creating captivating landscape
paintings, including detailed structures, under the expert guidance of the artist. More information
about the exhibit and workshop can be found at niagarapumphouse.ca.
About Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre
The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre is the art hub that connects our community by providing
art for all. Located on the banks of the Niagara River in a heritage building that formerly supplied
water to Niagara-on-the-Lake (hence our name); the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre offers
visual arts programs, exhibitions and events. We give back to the community by providing
access to the arts for those in need.
niagarapumphouse.ca
About Sam Paonessa AOCA, OSA
A member of the Ontario Society of Artists, Sam Paonessa is a graduate of the Ontario College
of Art (now OCADU). His proficiency as an illustrator and artist was developed and honed in a
lengthy tenure at Hallmark Cards Canada. Many original pieces he created there have been
widely reproduced and have enjoyed commercial success throughout North America and
overseas. Commendations garnered in juried competitions include plein air category awards
(Best Water in 2018, Best Sunset/ Nocturne in 2019, Norval Plein Air Second Prize and
People's Choice awards). Sam's paintings grace many corporate and museum collections and
are prized by private collectors.
sampaonessa.com