Emily MacLennan

My paintings of Toronto's streets, storefronts and alleyways aim to explore how the less obvious things that constitute a neighbourhood can develop meaning. Careful deliberation in composing and painting the image elevates the subject in my conscience and nudges it toward the surreal — gradually, the ordinary becomes important.

I'm originally from Nova Scotia and am a graduate of the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. I left Halifax for Toronto in 2007, settling in Little Portugal. This is my third year participating in TOAF, last year I was honoured to be the recipient of the Worth Gallery Award and the Mayor’s Purchase Award in 2022. My work is held in private collections across Canada, the U.S. and Europe, and in the City of Toronto’s permanent collection.