Maureen St. Clair

Maureen St. Clair is a self taught artist who began painting while living and working in Grenada, West Indies. Inspired by the strength, love and natural rhythms of Caribbean people, St. Clair paints pieces of celebration and gratitude. Simple yet vibrant shapes and colors dominate her canvases and bring life to the people dancing, strolling, posing or raising a fist in solidarity across the canvas. Her work has been described as simple yet powerful and courageous in its ability to move and provoke feelings of self and community empowerment.

St. Clair works part time as a freelance community educator and facilitator. Presently her passion lies in empowering youths through peace and art education. St. Clair believes art is a powerful tool for youths to explore, discover and exercise their creative power and potential. The main objective of “Peace through Art” programs is to build environments where kids feel safe, respected and valued while engaged in peace through art activities. The programs provide children and youths an opportunity to discuss, identify and explore conflict on a personal, family and community level. Kids are encouraged to learn and practice youth-centred conflict resolution and peace building strategies using various expressions of art. This  includes dance, spoken word, story telling, drama and visual arts.

As an artist and peace educator St. Clair is interested in art as a catalyst for social and personal change. St. Clair uses a percentage of her art sales to assist in funding community peace programs in Grenada, WI.

Website: http://www.maureenstclair.com/