Erika Riley

I’m Erika, also known as Acker. I’m a GTA-based artist, born in Scarborough but raised mostly in Ajax Ontario. I recently completed my bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, so I wouldn’t call myself a classically-trained artist by any means. I never wanted to give up creating my art OR give up on engineering, so while my academics transitioned to mainly STEM based courses, I kept creating art under my nickname.
I don’t think engineering and art are very different in the ways that matter. They’re simply two different ways of using creativity. For my art, I like to focus on people and experiences. From murals to portraits to mini-landscapes.
My current series is what I call my "Iconic" series: Acrylic paintings inspired by people - namely those who I consider iconic. Someone iconic to me might be someone famous, or it might be a random person on the street.
I'm always open to commissions or collaborations - feel free to reach out!