ABOUT MARIYA BLYZNYUK
Mariya Blyznyuk is a Ukrainian Canadian artist, illustrator, educator, and cultural ambassador whose work blends classical fine art with vibrant Ukrainian folk traditions.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Graphics from the National Pedagogical University in Kharkiv, as well as a degree in Management and Marketing from the National Academy of Government Managerial Staff of Culture and Arts in Kyiv.
Mariya is the founder and owner of Green Lion Art Studio, where for over a decade she has been teaching painting, illustration, and design to children, youth, and adults. Her teaching practice is centred on creativity, confidence-building, and the emotional and therapeutic power of art.
In 2025–2026, Mariya expanded her professional practice into illustration and publishing. She works as a children’s book illustrator and publisher, becoming part of the Ontario community of artists engaged in independent publishing. Alongside her studio, she develops educational and artistic content through her two YouTube channels, where she shares her artistic process and teaching approach with a wider audience.
Artistic Practice
Mariya’s work spans florals, landscapes, seascapes, architecture, wildlife, and decorative compositions. Her paintings are recognized for expressive brushwork, luminous colour, and a poetic, emotional atmosphere.
A defining element of her artistic language is the integration of Ukrainian cultural heritage — particularly Petrykivka painting, floral symbolism, and traditional decorative forms. Her work creates a bridge between tradition and contemporary expression.
Exhibitions & Professional Activity
Mariya is an active exhibiting artist across Ontario, participating in exhibitions, festivals, and institutional programs on an ongoing basis.
Her exhibition and professional highlights include:
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2015 — Bezpala Brown Gallery, Toronto
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2015 — Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts
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2016 — Art Club of Newmarket
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2017 — Art at Heart, Toronto
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2017 — King City Art Street Festival
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2018 — Featured on Property Brothers (HGTV)
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2021–present — Barrie City Hall Rotunda Exhibitions
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2023 — Muskoka Chapel Gallery, All Things Maple
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2023–2024 — Federation of Canadian Artists Exhibitions
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2023–2024 — Simcoe County Museum Exhibitions
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2024 — MacLaren Art Centre exhibitions, including Against All Odds and Ukrainian cultural programming
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2024–present — MacLaren Art Centre Benefactor Art Exchange
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2024–2025 — Barrie art festivals, including Kempenfest
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2025 — Orillia Art Gallery, Women’s Show
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2025 — Barrie Art Club exhibition at City Hall
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2026 — Artist Facilitator, SenSational Art Program, MacLaren Art Centre
She is also a recurring collaborator with the MacLaren Art Centre, where she develops and delivers Ukrainian-themed workshops and contributes to programming for seniors and community audiences.
Community & Cultural Engagement
Mariya actively promotes Ukrainian culture in Canada through exhibitions, workshops, and public art initiatives. Her projects often explore identity through floral symbolism and traditional Ukrainian art forms, creating meaningful and inclusive artistic experiences for diverse communities.
Teaching & Outreach
As an experienced educator, Mariya leads workshops and masterclasses for children, youth, adults, seniors, and families.
Her teaching includes:
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Classical drawing and painting
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Petrykivka floral painting
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Traditional Ukrainian decorative arts
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Creative programs for seniors and community groups
Her approach emphasizes accessibility, creativity, and emotional connection, making art both engaging and transformative.
Memberships & Affiliations
Mariya is an active member of:
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Richmond Hill Group of Artists
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Newmarket Group of Artists
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King City Group of Artists
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Barrie Art Club
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Muskoka Art Club
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Federation of Canadian Artists
She also works professionally as an artist-illustrator in Ontario, expanding her practice across fine art, illustration, publishing, and arts education.
Let’s Connect
Through exhibitions, books, workshops, and digital platforms, Mariya Blyznyuk continues to expand her artistic practice while sharing culture, creativity, and inspiration.
Her mission is to bring art into everyday life as a source of beauty, identity, healing, and connection.