CM – Pandemic Life. Should we start here? It seems like it’s all Canadians can talk about right now being in not the first, nor second, but third wave.  How have you been getting through day to day?  

I recommend everyone get a puppy! And I think that’s just it, taking it all day to day. There has been such a change regarding to my work and personal aspects of my life that I remind myself to be present, which isn’t always easy.  I take the time in the morning to start my day with meditation and a workout. It helps keep my mind clear and ground myself especially when things seem uncertain. I’m good with structuring my day creatively and getting my hands into something whether it’s creating art or writing. One of the silver linings for me during this time has been gaining access to classes without actually having to be in a certain city to do them. I feel like I keep myself productive and sharpen my skills. We’ve explored BC more. It’s easy to take for granted this beautiful province. Hands down bringing Rizzo into our family has been the biggest joy. She’s simply the best. A charming little clown that just lifts us up in so many ways. She’s been a constant reminder to “play” and take time out, especially when i’ve felt “i gotta do do do) If things get done done. They get done. If not, there’s always tomorrow.

CM – You’ve been a working actress for years. What made you pick up a paint brush?

What most people don’t know is, It was a toss up between art school and theatre school.

I was always involved in visual arts as a young child and it stuck with me.  Whether taking classes or self-taught, it’s as a part of me as being an actor. Everything I do creatively falls under my umbrella of being an “artist”. It’s what fuels my drive. Picking up the paintbrush and “putting it out there” was something new. I did it without much thought and I’m grateful at how it organically fell into place. It’s also a huge form of “therapy” for me, having access to this quiet headspace. I tend to have a busy mind so it grounds me. Before you know it 2-3 hours go by and I think, “What just happened?” and I feel great. 

I love this aspect of creating.

CM – Your rings are so structured but FUN! Where did the design concept originate? What processes do you use to make them?

Childhood nostalgia most definitely!  When I was younger I loved the boldness and sense of play when I would dress up and wear big bold rings and bracelets while strutting in my mom’s high heels. I was attracted to the art resin material because they are certified non toxic, strong, durable and can be worn anytime and at any age. They are fun, playful rings that add a pop of colour to your wardrobe, a kick to your personality with no fuss, no rules, and NO DRAMA. Each piece is hand poured and mixed delicately with colour and materials designed to create a unique, one of a kind palette for your fingers. I think of them as art for your fingers. They are unique, charming, playful, and magical. I encourage people to embrace how it settles, the imperfections that make it perfectly imperfect. All irregularities and tiny holes make each piece unique and don’t affect the quality in any way. I sand and polish them by hand. I am always giddy when they come out of the molds.

CM – Where can you purchase your rings in Vancouver? Do you plan on doing any markets this summer?

One of a Few in Gastown, and through me right now, custom pieces too.

I’d love to do a fun Pop-up with a shop in the fall, closer to the holiday season. It would be nice to curate them with some curated vintage pieces. 

CM – Do the rings reflect your own personal style? What does that look like? Pre and post pandemic lol.

Yes for sure. They are quirky, fun, and classy. I feel they “pop” a more muted/minimal outfit and add a layer of fun to something more bold or extravagant. Not that I’ve worn anything extravagant during the pandemic aside from my lounge wear and obsession with bathrobes. Haha. I’ll wear one amongst my regular gold rings and not think too much about what I’m wearing physically. “Birthday suits” are fun. Pre/Post pandemic…worn in any way. That’s how I want people to wear them…don’t think too much about it. Wear it with what makes you comfortable. NO RULES!

CM – You and David moved from Toronto to Vancouver. How has Vancouver shaped you as an artist?

The minute you walk off the plane in Vancouver you smell the ocean air. There’s a sense of space here. I’m pretty “fast paced” as it is, and I’d say West Coast life has encouraged me to slow down (my husband would differ. LOL) I realize more and more as I get older how much I need the mountains, the ocean, and space. It immediately calms and clears my head when I need to focus on my work. I feel like any city I’m in, shapes me as the artist I am.

CM – You are always out and about. A lady on the move. What does a typical Saturday look like for you when youre not working?

VROOM VROOM! Saturdays I like to sleep in. I usually do “household fun”, or morning errands. Maybe meet a friend for a walk and coffee. I love to have the day to putter around and keep it easy breezy. I may dabble into some sort of creative work. I can never really turn off the creative juices. There’s always walks with Rizzo, more beach times and I even bought a bocci kit with hopes of starting a league. Hehe.

CM – What was the last piece of clothing you purchased locally? What do you love about this shop? Why is shopping locally so important to you?

OOOOH a gold silk beach house robe from Jessica Reddit Designs because, well… WE ALL NEED A GOLD SILK BEACH ROBE! Jessica creates elegant, timeless pieces that are sustainable, ethical, and natural all made in Vancouver. Shopping locally and supporting independent designers helps these small businesses thrive. I try to support when I can, even if it’s something small.

CM – Though coffee isn’t a BLOOUE centrepoint (though it probably should be) tell me your favorite spot for a Curtado? What do you love about it? Do they sell any merchandise?

I’d say Cafe Calabria on Commercial Drive. It’s in the heart of little Italy. Their coffee is delicious and I love the Italian aesthetic (i’m biased obviously).

They have giant Italian statues as part of their decor, not sure if they are for sale. Hehe.