Alexandrya Eaton

Alexandrya Eaton is a contemporary Canadian artist whose practice involves painting, textiles, and performance. Eaton’s work has been presented in over fifty solo exhibitions and numerous group exhibitions. Her paintings can be found in public and private collections nationally and internationally. In 2021, Eaton’s retrospective exhibition, Everything in Between — a thirty year survey curated by 3E Collective — was shown at the Owens Art Gallery, Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick.

In 2024, Eaton completed her MFA through Emily Carr University of Art + Design in Vancouver, British Columbia. Eaton is looking forward to two upcoming artist residencies, one at Byrdcliffe in Woodstock, New York, USA, and the other at the Banff Centre in Banff, Alberta.

Eaton’s research investigates alternative ways of knowing and examines how matrilineal connections — as a form of memory — can be restructured by incorporating traditional textile practices into her painting practice as a bodily form of memory, reaffirming matrilineal connections through making. Eaton lives in Sackville, New Brunswick and acknowledges this land as the ancestral and unceded territory of Mi’kma’ki.

What led you to become an artist?

I've always considered myself an artist. As a child, I was always drawing and painting. Translating what I see visually helps me to understand the world.

What motivates your creativity?

My artwork is an emotional outlet. Art making is a medium for articulating and transforming complex emotions.

How has living and working in New Brunswick helped and/or inspired you on your journey?

I enjoy the quiet, natural beauty of New Brunswick. I live in a small town and spend most of my time in my studio. I appreciate that there are few distractions and that it only takes me a minute to get here. Sustained art practice requires discipline and hard work. Living here allows me to concentrate on my practice and devote my time to creative pathways.

How does your creative process unfold as you create an artwork?

I don’t have a plan when I begin an artwork. I rely on intuition and years of experience to guide me.

Why do you think it's important to make art and pursue an artistic career?

I think the world needs more beauty and poetry. I think we are all looking for more genuine human connection. Art brings people together.

What do you think is the impact of artists' work on communities and the province as a whole?

Artists tell the stories of their time and place. Artists reflect on diverse experiences and provide alternative ways of seeing which helps to bring people together, having a positive influence on community, kindness, empathy, and understanding. I have seen this firsthand as part of the province’s dynamic arts scene for over three decades.

Describe what you are most proud of in your career.

It is not easy to make a living as an artist. You need dedication and discipline and a strong work ethic. I am proud to have had a thirty-year career in the arts in this province. I am proud that I have worked hard to achieve fifty solo exhibitions.

What advice would you give to emerging artists?

Keep going. Don’t give up. Believe in yourself. Apply for everything. Ignore rejection. Apply again!