Brian M. Atyeo (1950 –)

A career artist of more than thirty years, Brian produces paintings in series; some are book-ended and some are constant throughout his career. Atyeo is recognized for his ongoing series of Killarney and Algonquin paintings, locales where several members of the Group of Seven painted.

In 2011, Brian Atyeo completed a twenty-year project painting Canada from coast to coast to coast. The result was an enduring series of paintings of Newfoundland, which received critical acclaim by loyal collectors and a nearly sold-out exhibition of thirty-five works. A move to Nova Scotia brought a limited series of textural rock paintings and interior scenes that capture the joy and beauty of life in Peggy’s Cove. Atyeo has also painted the Alberta landscape and loves to drive through the foothills; his paintings convey the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

In 2014, Atyeo debuted a series of abstract paintings of semi-precious stones, which paid homage to his early passion for learning and playful curiosity. “Stones were one of the first things I remember valuing,” he has stated. “To me they were an exotic, natural offering.” Atyeo’s search for beauty in the inanimate world also led to a limited series of winterberry paintings on birch panel, which capture the beautiful foliage of the winter season.

Inspired by his love of traditional and modern jazz, Atyeo has produced an evolving series of paintings and collages of jazz artists. His bold and spiritual impressions reflect a unique response to contemporary life.

Atyeo is a respected teacher and conducts painting workshops across Canada. He is a member of the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour and the Ontario Society of Artists. His work is held in corporate, government, and private collections internationally. He is an avid supporter of Ducks Unlimited, an organization with a rich tradition of wetland conservation for more than seventy-five years.