Dear Friend of TOAF,
Three exceptional artists—Sandy Middleton, Mya Naidoo, and Amy K. Fitzgerald—were recognized for their unique approaches to their mediums.
Sandy Middleton, a seasoned TOAF artist who began her career right out of school in 1991, continues to push the boundaries of her ever-evolving practice. In her most recent body of work, she weaves collages of her photography on paper and encaustic in weightless, ethereal layers. The results are dreamy and earned her the Petroff Gallery Award for the Best Use of Texture.
Mya Naidoo is a first-time TOAF participant in her final year of a BFA in Drawing and Painting at OCAD University. Her bold, vibrant paintings reimagine sun-drenched familiar plants, layering them into dynamic compositions. Recognized with the Gladstone House Award, her work can be spotted in the hotel’s rooms—keep an eye out if you stay!
Amy K. Fitzgerald is fascinated by geometric abstraction, particularly the circle motif, and continuously explores the balance between pattern, rhythm, shape, and colour. Her masterful use of paper in her work earned her the Best of Paper award, supported by The Japanese Paper Place.
Our 2025 Call for Artists closes soon! This year, we’re excited to introduce a new opportunity for artists aged 18–30 through the Art Encounters—Access and Outreach program—eligible participants can receive an Exhibition Bursary. Learn more about all TOAF bursaries here.
Until next time,
anahita & TOAF Team
Join us for the following:
- From Studio to Collections — How Artworks are Acquired – Wednesday, February 26, 2025
- From Studio to Public Spaces — How Artists Venture into Public Art – Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Sandy Middleton
Who has recently inspired you?
I recently discovered the work of Jim Verburg. I love the quiet, contemplative nature of his work; so impactful to me.
What’s next for you?
I have an incredibly exciting project opening soon in Vienna at the Literature Museum of the Austrian National Library in Vienna. They have included some earlier collage work that I also showed at TOAF in the past. It is called “Where we come from. Literature and Origins” and will run from April 24, 2025, until February 15, 2026.
Hear from the Judge
“Sandy’s work with photography and encaustic accentuates the ethereality of her paper sculptures. The Layering of paper creates a wonderful play with texture, depth and light.”
— Jacalyn Strauss Zimmerman, Director & Owner of Petroff Gallery
Mya Naidoo
What inspires your work?
I’ve been most inspired by bright, concentrated sunlight and the feeling of the sun’s warmth around me. My paintings reference plants as they feel like the most natural displays of sunlight.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently creating a new body of work for the final thesis of my BFA and in preparation for OCAD’s graduate exhibition, GradEx, in 2025.
Hear from the Judge
“Mya Naidoo’s luscious plant forms are rooted in memory. Simultaneously familiar and mysterious, they can evolve a domestic plant arrangement or dense forest or jungle. The undulating shaped and variety of tones invite the eyes to wander, as if moving through a landscape.”
— Lee Petrie, Curator, Archive Hospitality
Amy K. Fitzgerald
Is there something unexpected about your process you’d like to share?
I use ancient words and languages to name my pieces, adding layers of meaning. This blend of precision and historical references creates a unique balance that I find thrilling.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently in the planning stage of a new series inspired by the beautiful papers from the Japanese Paper Place. This series will explore the unique qualities of these materials. I look forward to seeing how this inspiration shapes my next body of work.
Hear from the Judge
“Amy’s ability to transform simple materials like paper and canvas into visually striking pieces won us over. The wide array of colour reflects the world we live in both natural and human, The orderly arrangement of those pieces on wood panels captivates the viewer and evokes a sense of calm.”
— Nancy Jacobi & Tara Moore-Jones, Founder and President of The Japanese Paper Place
Curated Collection
Shaped by JOY
February 26, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
In-person – Unit 262, 401 Richmond Street West
How does your art go from the studio to private, corporate and public collections? What do collectors look for, and how can you position your work to attract acquisitions? Art advisors and public art consultants often facilitate these opportunities, offering a deeper connection between the artist’s work and influential buyers. Join us for an engaging conversation with experienced collectors and advisors to gain insight on what to expect in the acquisition process, how to build relationships in the art world, and how to prepare when an opportunity knocks at the door.
In partnership with the Art Dealers Association of Canada.
March 5, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
In-person – Unit 262, 401 Richmond Street West
Making the leap from studio practice to public art can feel daunting for many artists. Transitioning from small-scale works to large public installations requires mastering many layers—design, concept, production, and installation. Often, a lack of experience and access to opportunities makes this leap challenging.
Join us for an insightful discussion with expert public art curators who will share how to craft a winning proposal and what they look for during the selection process.
In partnership with the City of Toronto.
Call for Proposals: Art Nest— Public Art
Deadline for Submissions: February 28, 2025
TOAF is seeking exciting, innovative proposals for installation, sculpture, new media, and performance art pieces for the 2025 Fair. This is a unique opportunity for artists to create works that engage with the dynamic, open-air environment of Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto’s civic heart. As part of the Art Nest program, TOAF offers selected artists the resources, mentorship, and visibility needed to bring their concepts to life.
TOAF Bursaries
Did you know? TOAF offers Bursary programs through:
Art Encounters—Access and Outreach Program.
Exhibition Bursary — A free exhibition space.
Travel Bursary — Out-of-province artists can apply for travel support.
Up to 20 spots are available.
