Sculpture Expo

Posted on October 1, 2025 by mariasaracino

One of the most exciting art events in Ottawa is just weeks away – Sculpture Expo is back and I’m looking forward to introducing my new series Fish with Faces. I’ll have three original sculptures on display as well as an assortment of “mini’s” in the Gift Boutique.

Hope you will drop by and check out my whimsical new collection.

Sculpture EXPO – Saturday and Sunday, October 18-19th at the Glebe Community Centre located at 175 Third Ave., Ottawa

Show hours are 10am to 5pm

Sculpture EXPO will be featuring 65+ original sculptures, several new artists and a completely refreshed collection across every style and material. The expanded Gift Boutique will have original sculptures priced under $100 – perfect for a jump on your holiday shopping.

Free refreshments on opening day and don’t forget to enter the draw for an original sculpure by Maggie Wesley.

Mark your calendar- see you there!

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Elbows Up!

Posted on April 28, 2025 by mariasaracino

I’m thrilled to invite you to the West End Sculpture Show, where my piece “Elbows Up” has been selected. Inspired by Justin Trudeau’s farewell speech, I revisited a portrait I created a decade ago when he first assumed office. This updated work reflects the spirit of our current election, the dynamic energy of the “Elbows Up” movement, the transition of power to his successor, and the turbulence of the ongoing trade war with the U.S.

“Elbows Up” symbolizes the need to defend yourself or stand your ground, a phrase deeply rooted in hockey culture—no surprise it’s become Canada’s rallying cry. This slogan and this sculpture captures the determination and resilience marking this new chapter in our political landscape, offering a powerful tribute to the transition that has reshaped our national identity and sparked a renewed sense of patriotic pride.

I hope you will drop by the Kanata Civic Art Gallery starting today – election day – for the West End Sculpture Show. 20 Artists and 30 sculptures will be on display by members of the National Capital Network of Sculptors. All Canadian made by all Canadian artists.

The show runs from April 28th to May 11th.

Kanata Civic Art Gallery is located in the John Mlacak Center, 2500 Campeau Drive in Kanata,

Elbows Up, an original sculpture by Maria Saracino. 22” tall, polymer clay, textiles and wood.

Posted in Art, Art Dolls, art exhibits, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Figurative Art, Justin Trudeau, Liberal Party, Maria Saracino, ottawa, ottawa art scene, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, sculpture, Studio 87 | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Julenisse

Posted on November 14, 2024 by mariasaracino

This year feels a little odd not making any of my little elves, but I love Christmas and I couldn’t help myself – I made one little Santa. A Norwegian character called Julenisse. 18” tall on a leather horse, loaded with toys and shoes, he’s already found a home with one of my collectors in North Carolina.

“Julenisse is the Norwegian name for Santa Claus. Julenisse is a Christmas-associated household spirit or Christmas pixie in Scandinavian folklore. The Julenisse is also known by other names like Jultomte in Sweden, Julemand in Danish and Joulupukki in Finland. The Julenisse is described as a short person, usually under four feet tall, with a red cap and long white beard. They are said to live in the nearby forests, fields, or streams. On Christmas Eve, the Julenisse visits children and delivers presents.

The Julenisse is mischievous but also responsible for protecting the farmstead and its buildings. In Norwegian folklore, there are many different types of “Nisse”, which are mythological creatures that can be traced back to old Norse society. Nisse is said to live a long time, sometimes for hundreds of years.”

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Winterlude

Posted on October 19, 2024 by mariasaracino

A few years ago my granddaughter worked at the Beaver Tails hut on the Ottawa Canal during Winterlude. I was struck by a scene in front of the hut and registered that image in my head as one of those “moments in time” that is uniquely Canadian – actually it’s uniquely representative of our beautiful city of Ottawa. Beaver Tails was founded by Pam and Grant Hooker right here in Canada’s Capital and although it’s expanded across Canada and abroad, it continues to be a truly iconic Canadian pastry and an experience I make sure all my visitors try.

The scene that registered in my mind was of a couple of kids sitting on a bench near the hut – taking a break from skating – laughing and delighted in their delicious treats. Their hand knitted hats and scarves were dusted with sparkling snow and the steam from their hot chocolate creating a cloud around their faces. It was one of those scenes that tickled memories of my own kids and grandkids. So of course I knew that sooner or later I would have to recreate this vingette in my style of sculpture.

I’m not a knitter, so I had to recruit a friend to create their earflap touques and mittens. and the skates are actually Christmas ornaments that worked perfectly to scale. Everything else is my doing from sculpting the figures and creating the costumes, building the Beaver Tails Hut and bench out of balsa wood and creating the illusion of ice and snow. This was a fun project and it was finished just in time to be unveiled at Sculpture EXPO October 19th and 20th right here in Ottawa, Ontario. If you have a chance come by the Glebe Community Centre at 175 Third Avenue for an incredible exhibit of original sculptures. Saturday and Sunday, October 19-20.

Additional information on available sculptures can be found in Gallery I at http://www.MariaSaracino.com

Posted in Art, Art Dolls, art exhibits, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Artists, Figurative Art, ottawa, Ottawa 150, ottawa art scene, Perth, ON, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, sculpey, Sculpting Workshops, Studio 87, Vingettes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Celebrating Community and Nature: St. Bernard School’s Mural Project

Posted on May 24, 2024 by mariasaracino

Article by | OCSB News

Step into St. Bernard School’s vibrant foyer and prepare to be captivated by a masterpiece that goes beyond mere paint and brush strokes. The newest addition isn’t just a mural; it’s a testament to the school’s values, a celebration of diversity, and a nod to environmental stewardship.

Imagine a world where every hexagonal tile tells a story—a story of Canada’s rich tapestry of culture or a personal narrative woven with threads of identity. Thanks to the partnership of  Maria Saracino, a renowned local artist specializing in polymer clay, our students and staff embarked on a journey of self-expression, crafting these unique tiles under her expert guidance.

These tiles were installed around a figurative model of St. Bernard, also designed by Saracino, in the school foyer. This stunning display will serve as a reminder of their interconnectedness, much like nature’s ecosystems, where each school community member contributes to the whole.

As the students worked on this mural, they were reminded of the importance of collaboration and the beauty of diversity. Every tile represents a piece of their collective identity, showcasing the variety of talents and perspectives within their school. The mural not only enhances the school’s appearance but also strengthens the school’s sense of unity and pride.

The St. Bernard mural is more than just an art project; it symbolizes their dedication to nurturing a supportive, creative, and environmentally conscious community. The school is grateful to Maria Saracino for her guidance and to all the students and staff who have poured their hearts into this beautiful work of art. Together, they create a lasting legacy reflecting our OCSB values and commitment to caring for God’s creation.

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Special Assignments

Posted on February 27, 2024 by mariasaracino

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a polymer clay artist’s studio? As someone deeply passionate about the art of polymer clay, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to dive into the world of experimentation, testing, and design with the Polyform Products Company who produce Sculpey, Premo and Living Doll polymer clays. These special assignments have not only allowed me to push the boundaries of my creativity but also provided invaluable insights into the endless possibilities of this versatile medium. Each assignment has been a thrilling adventure filled with challenges, discoveries and moments of pure artistic inspiration.

One of the exciting projects I’ve had the privilege to work on is testing and creating a skin color palette for the Living Doll Espresso color. A test box with the color chart I created is available through Sculpey with samples of the colors I used to create various skin tones.

As a continuation of this assignment I was also asked to design an art project that put to use some of the color mixes I created. Check out the finished sculpture. What do you think? Let me know if you are interested in a workshop for this project.

“Spirit of Fall“ – polymer clay, gold leaf, brass and wood

Www.saracinocollection.com

Www.saracinoartstudio.com

Instagram: mariasaracinoca

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Live Workshops Coming Soon

Posted on September 29, 2023 by mariasaracino

Exciting News: Join Me at Stone Manor Studios This Fall! 

I am thrilled to announce that this November, I will be teaching two workshops at the enchanting Stone Manor Studios, located in Newboro, Ontario,  just an hour and 20 minutes away from Ottawa. Nestled in the heart of the countryside, Stone Manor Studios offers a truly picturesque setting that will inspire creativity and relaxation.

Breathtaking Scenery: Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Stone Manor Studios is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tranquil landscapes will undoubtedly enhance your artistic experience.

Elegant Renovations: My workshops will take place in the newly renovated stone manor, where history meets modern comfort. The studio provides a unique blend of charm and sophistication, creating an ideal atmosphere for learning and creating.

Stay and Explore: Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an extended artistic retreat, Stone Manor Studios offers the flexibility to accommodate your plans. There are plenty of charming AirB&Bs in the area where you can make your stay as cozy as you like.

Delightful Dining: Indulge your taste buds in the culinary delights of the region. There are wonderful restaurants nearby, perfect for savouring delicious meals after a day of artistic expression.

Join me for an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature’s beauty, where creativity knows no bounds. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner eager to explore your talents, these workshops at Stone Manor Studios are designed for all skill levels.

Stay tuned for more details, including workshop schedules and registration information. Follow me for updates, and mark your calendars for a fall filled with creativity, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.

I can’t wait to share this artistic journey with you at Stone Manor Studios in November. Get ready to embrace your inner artist in a truly inspiring environment!

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The Story of Love Letters

Posted on September 22, 2023 by mariasaracino

Several years ago, I created a sculpture that I put my heart and soul into. “Love Letters” brought me immense joy because I could see how it touched people. It stirs up feelings of love lost, loneliness, longing and memories of youth. As artists, our work is truly a success when it evokes emotions from our audience. This has always been the case with “Love Letters”.  It stands out as one of my best works for this reason.

The collectors who purchased “Love Letters” have cherished her but imagined there was more to her story that needed to be told. Their appreciation for my work was so profound that they recently approached me and requested a companion piece to complement the original sculpture.

In the sculpture, the old woman is reading love letters from a young Corporal, his life cut short far too soon. The Memorial Cross was added to her left hand. This medal was presented to Mothers and wives of Vets who lost their life in active service, including peacekeeping missions. She feels his presence as his memory takes hold in a vision behind her, his fingers gently brushing her shoulder. Even though a life time has passed, the moment feels real and his memory is forever cherished.

I’m honoured to have been able to bring my client’s vision to life and completed the story of “Love Letters”. This journey of artistry and creativity has been truly rewarding.

http://www.saracinocollection.com

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Mood Swings

Posted on January 7, 2022 by mariasaracino

It’s always fascinated me how the chain of information spreads from person to person. The interpretation and the range of human emotions and reactions are so different. One of Norman Rockwell’s illustrations sticks out in my mind. It’s called “Gossip”. This was a different time and information moved at a slower pace, but it shows how each person reacts differently to the same information, from shock to delight to anger.

Today, information moves at lightening speed and we are bombarded with news and opinions and events from multiple sources. Because of this we find ourselves on daily – actually, minute by minute emotional rollercoasters. It’s hard to stay calm sometimes and we are always looking for ways to improve our mood.

As a figurative artist, I already unconsciously focus on people’s faces, so I can’t help but notice the increase in mood swings expressed through people’s facial expressions. Maybe the isolation of the pandemic has left us feeling less inhibited or maybe we’ve just had enough and we’re not afraid to show what we are thinking. Either way, it’s inspired me to create my series “Mood Swings”.

Mood Swings focuses on the face and the character’s expression without the distraction of the body or costume. I’m hoping my viewers will connect with the character’s expression and fill in the story as it relates to their mood. I love creating these characters. There’s no lack of inspiration around me, or for that matter, staring right back at me from the mirror.

Prices start at $295. Mood Swings are available as 12″ busts mounted on 6″ x 6″ pedestals or as mini 7-8″ characters. They are available at the NAK Gallery, located at 1285 Wellington West in Ottawa or online at http://www.nakgallery.com

Posted in Art, Art Awards, art classes, Art Connection Summit, Art Dolls, art exhibits, art instructors, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Artists, Figurative Art, Maria Saracino, NAK Gallery, ottawa, Ottawa 150, ottawa art scene, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, sculpey, Sculpting Workshops, Studio 87, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A Fashion Icon

Posted on September 23, 2024 by mariasaracino

There are so many ideas swirling around in my head, sometimes they go in the brain vault waiting for the right time to materialize. I’ve always been fascinated by Iris Appel, the New York socialite and fashion icon, probably because I love artsy costume jewelry so much too. When she passed away in March, I dug out a photo I had saved – I had the idea that one day I would create a series of figurative sculptures based on the fashionable older women of New York. That may still happen, but in the meantime another opportunity presented itself.

Here’s the inspiration behind my latest sculpture. This photo also answers the question – where did she store all her jewelry?

When Sid Cratzbarg announced he was reintroducing his Get Sidified Gala event to raise money for Crohns and Colitis Research I knew this was my chance to use this photo to create a memorable piece for a great cause.

I found this great jewelry box – took it apart, refurbished it, painted it and swapped out the hardware and drawer linings. Finally I upholstered the top of it like a throne for the fashion queen herself. Iris is an example of my signature portrait sculptures and I think I captured her essence complete with her signature glasses.

Here’s the finished sculpture along with one of my favorite Iris quotes.

You’ll find her at the Get Sidified Gala, October 18th at Sala San Marco in Ottawa, ON.

26″ tall – Iris is waiting to store some lucky person’s collection of fine jewelry.

For more info check out http://www.getsidified.ca

Posted in Affordable Designs, Art, Art Awards, art classes, art conference, Art Connection Summit, art convention, Art Dolls, art exhibits, art instructors, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Artists, Figurative Art, Maria Saracino, ottawa, Ottawa 150, ottawa art scene, Perth, ON, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, sculpey, sculpture, Studio 87, Uncategorized, Vingettes, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Heart and Stoke Foundation

Posted on January 31, 2024 by mariasaracino

In support of the incredible work done by the Heart and Stroke Foundation, I am humbled to announce that I am donating a special sculpture for the upcoming Robe Rouge Gala on February 3rd. This is the second time my work has been selected for this cause. My first piece “Courage” raised $3,000 at this event in 2022 and I hope this weekend’s auction goes just as well. Here’s a look at “Strength”. She stands 28″ tall and is sculpted from Sculpey’s Living Doll Polymer Clay, textiles, resin and wood.

Heart health is a cause very close to my heart, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to contribute in this meaningful way. This sculpture is a small token of my dedication to the cause and my admiration for the fantastic efforts of the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

I want to also start informing you that I plan on making some changes regarding my social media presence. Due to an ongoing battle with hackers and account security on Facebook, I’ve made the decision to stop using this platform as of March 1st. Your safety and the integrity of our online interactions are important to me and after countless hacking attempts I’m throwing in the towel.

In the meantime I hope that you will follow my blog at MariaSaracino.com instead. If you are reading this story then you are on my blog site and all you have to do is scroll down until you see the “Follow” button on the right hand side. I try to post something about once a month to show you what I’m working on. However, just so I don’t quit all social media cold turkey, I will continue to stay connected on Instagram for now. Feel free to follow me on Instagram @mariasaracinoca for updates and more.

I appreciate your understanding and look forward to continuing our connection on safer and more enjoyable platforms.

Thank you for being a part of this digital journey with me!

You can also find me at http://www.saracinocollection.com and saracinoartstudio.com

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The Wedding Cake Topper

Posted on December 18, 2023 by mariasaracino

Hi Friends! 👋 I’m thrilled to share one of my latest creations – a personalized cake topper for a wonderful couple’s wedding! Portrait commissions are a big part of the art I create and it was a great honour to be asked to create this special piece for their special day. Months before, the bride shared some of the top secret details of their outfits so I could recreate them as closely as possible. Little details like her beautiful tattoos, her lace choker, the brocade pattern of his tuxedo jacket and rhinestone button details as well as the top hats and bouquet were included. Yet something was missing from the final composition. Some extra clay and paint and their fur babies wearing matching floral collars completed the portrait.

Congratulations to the happy couple!
Posted in Art Awards, art classes, Art Dolls, art exhibits, Art shows, art shows in ottawa, Figurative Art, Maria Saracino, ottawa art scene, polyform products, polymer clay, portrait commissions, sculpey, Sculpting Workshops, sculpture, Vingettes, Workshops | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment