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HAPPY CANADA DAY!
When thinking about being Canadian, I often think about how lucky we are. We are able to try new things, express ourselves and pursue our dreams which are all possibilities in our country. It's no wonder that we produce so many amazing people here!
As some of you know, when we immigrated to Canada from Poland when I was little, we came with nothing but big dreams. As most immigrants do, we struggled for many years but we always had our eyes on the big picture. Some 30 years later, I am proud to call North Vancouver my home and thrilled that I have had the chance to follow my dreams in this beautiful country. Moving to Canada greatly changed the course of our lives and gave me the opportunity to learn multiple languages, study music, karate, attend university, travel and open a business doing what I love every single day!
As part of my goals this year, I am committing myself to giving as much back to those around me as possible. I would love to see you at one of my events or in my studio and in honor of Canada Day, I would like to extend a week long offer just for you to help make that possible!
Enjoy the day!
Monika Blichar
CEO & Founder
MAB Ventures Inc.
604 999 6177
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New to the FAB Art Program:
Lisa Graham
Seadance Photography
Courtenay, B.C.
  Interview with Lisa GrahamQ-How did you start doing photography?
A-My spark for photography happened when I first learned how to scuba dive! I was so excited by the new world I'd found that I wanted to share it with friends and family so I started bringing along a camera. It eventually became a standard part of my dive kit; I never dove without it.
Q-What inspired you to start doing underwater photography?
A-I loved the challenge of the underwater environment. To photograph underwater one must be extremely aware of their buoyancy in order not to harm anything... say by kicking something with a fin... and I had to get really good at stalking creatures because the sound of my bubble would often scare the fish off before I got close enough for a good photo. It wasn't long before I wanted to learn more and enrolled in the Pro Photo course here on Vancouver Island. Then the portrait photography I learned in the course merged with the underwater photography I knew and now I am totally hooked on underwater portraiture!
Q-Can you describe some of the sensations that you feel while shooting underwater?
A-My favorite sensation is when I first duck my head under the water. I get really excited before each shoot and the moment my head is under water all sound is blocked and I have to concentrate on my breathing and I spend a little time just fiddling with my camera on the bottom. It's my way of relaxing and really focusing on what is coming next. My subjects are usually a little nervous at the beginning as well so we spend the first few minutes just getting comfortable in the water, then we start by making short, relaxed dips together in about chest deep water. By the time we get out of the water they are usually stoked and talking about 'what we should do next time'. It is really very addicting!
Q-Typically, who shoots these types of photos with you?
A-Water lovers! These shoots are ideal for anyone who loves the water and is comfortable underneath it. My maternity clients love the feeling of being weightless when they are so very pregnant. And of course I welcome inquiries from commercial clients, the uniqueness of underwater photography is a real eye catcher and helps draw people's attention.
Q-What services can you offer?
A-Commercial/Fashion; Trash the Dress; Maternity are a few of my underwater photography services. I have a growing collection of huge scarves, tutus and headpieces that are available for use by my clients when they book a session. Plus, I'm super excited to have use of the amazing pool at The Old House Village Hotel and Spa which also works well for out of town guests who want to have a little get-away along with their portraits. Of course I am available for travel as well!I also have a growing collection of fine art prints that are available for purchase. I am passionate about creating new images and every so often I'll collaborate with models and dancers for a creative shoot. It has great spin-offs for my clients in the form of clothing and props! My 'tickle trunk' runneth over ;)
 
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Canada Day Specials Valid
June 30-July 7, 2014
4 Painting Classes
$79+gst
Reg. $179+gst
15 Drop in Sessions
$140+gst
Reg. $300+gst
Art World Expo for Two!
$50+gst
Reg. $80+gst
Art & Wine Night
July 25, 2014
$39+gst/person
KIDS Summer Art Camp
Sizzlin' Studio!
$99+gst
Reg. $225
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Have you met Gianni yet?
Gianni joined our family in April and has become a pretty popular little guy around here!
This summer, our kids pet portrait theme for the Sizzlin' Studio Art Camps has also inspired a community fundraiser for the North Shore Animal Rescue and Make and Break Arts Foundation!
Mark your calendars for September 19!
Friday, September 19th, 2014
Entry: By donation, all proceeds will support the North Shore Animal Welfare Society and the Make and Break Arts Foundation
An avid animal lover and Vancouver based artist, Monika ����Blichar regularly turns her dogs' adventures into pet-loving art and is inviting the community to do the same at her one-day "Pet Portrait Fundrasier" hosted at Meccanica and facilitated by MAB Art Studio & Gallery. Along with a display of kid-created "pet portraits," created at MAB Art Studio Summer Art Camps, the event will feature a pet apparel and accessory sale as well as light refreshments. Bring your pet down with his or her accessories, get a photo of your best buddy and support the North Shore Animal Welfare Society and Make and Break Arts Foundation.
Twitter: @MonikaBlichar
Instagram: @monikaanna
 In the meantime, send us a pic of your cuddly friend and be entered to win a custom pet portrait!
Winner will be announced at our event!
Contest Ends August 29, 2014
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