About the Artist
As an artist, Sam Paonessa feels most at home in a natural environment. Painting en plein air nourishes his soul and adds a spiritual dimension to his artistic experience. His award-winning body of work also includes many still life, urban landscapes, and figurative pieces.
A member of the Ontario Society of Artists, Sam is a graduate of the Ontario College of Art (now OCADU). In a distinguished career that spans five decades, his proficiency as an illustrator and artist was developed and honed in a lengthy tenure at Hallmark Cards Canada. Many original pieces he created there have been widely reproduced and have enjoyed commercial success throughout North America and overseas.
Sam’s paintings grace many corporate and museum collections and are prized by private collectors. Commendations garnered in juried competitions (Plein Air Magazine) include several plein air category awards (Best Water, 2018 and Best Sunset/Nocturne, 2019, People’s Choice Award in 2021, Honourable Mention, Plein Air Oil, 2023, Plein Air Acrylic/Gouache,2024) His acrylic paintings have been included for 4 consecutive years in the Artist Network publication, AcrylicWorks 8,9,10, and 11. In 2022 his paintings were juried into the National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society Best of America Small Works Show and the Best of America National Show. Another honourable achievement was having his painting juried into the Oil Painters of America National Exhibition March 2023.
Art is central to Sam’s existence, as are faith and family. "My love for painting continues to grow as I observe the world around me. I draw inspiration from nature in all its forms, from the grandest landscapes to the tiniest blossoms. The opportunity to witness nature’s wonders—let alone interpret them—brings me closer to God. For that I am grateful. As I mature artistically, I endeavour to grow spiritually as well. I am constantly striving to develop my character and my faith. I hope to inspire others not only as an artist, but also as a person.”
