Biography - Monte Wellman

Born 1973 in the city of Toronto, Canada and living my childhood in remote Newfoundland I had the opportunity to experience two completely different lifestyles. From an early age I had the innate interest to create visual depictions influenced initially from various pre-school assignments. In time these projects became a personal obligation to create more sophisticated and intriguing images which intended to entertain the viewer. During my childhood drawing became a pleasurable pastime which allowed me to express and explore my creativity. Much of my influence was gained from my father who could best be defined as a folk artist and was adept with carpentry or any medium which was at hand. Having no direction I eventually lost interest with illustration and repressed my artistic nature for nearly a decade.

In 1994 I enrolled into a Graphic Design program offered by George Brown College in Toronto where I was reintroduced to my creative instincts. After completion of college and receiving a diploma I emmersed myself into the world of print advertising taking various jobs in agencies across the country. I moved from print to multimedia and broadcasting attaining a secure position within the industry however this was not to last. I became increasingly unhappy with my career decisions and found myself at a paradox where I would choose to leave the fast-paced industry of commercial design. It was during this transition period I came to the realization that I wanted to focus my creativity on personal artwork and sought an alternative source of income. In 1999 I travelled westward and found some success selling artwork to tattoo parlours across the country. After living abroad I returned to Toronto in 2001 with a renewed determination to create a series of work to be published as poster size reproductions. During the past several years I have expanded my portfolio and continue to develop works experimenting with new mediums and an endless desire to produce.

Aside from the difficulties of generating public interest the largest challenge I face is that of self-doubt in my own artistic abilities. I never considered myself to be truly an artist and have never been formally trained in the fine arts. I've witnessed on many occasions people who can draw or paint with a talent I could only dream to possess. I am constantly humbled by the spontaneous abilities of other artists and their use of colour, mediums and techniques. The notion that a artist must be taught or attend a artist institution before they can be considered authentic is completely ridiculous. I believe the only things a prospective artist can be taught are the various tools and techniques of applying a particular vision. The medium is not the message and is inconsequential compared to the grand vision or statement which any artist is compelled to portray. Visual art on any level whether it utilizes sculpture, paint or a cheap wax crayon must evoke an emotion or tell a story to become truly worthy. I resent trends and all those who advocate such nonsense, true art is timeless and will always retain its ability to connect to those who look with a open heart and mind.

Many of my works are available for purchase, click here for pricing details.

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For Inquiries email: montewellman@rogers.com