ABOUT MARIYA BLYZNYUK
Mariya Blyznyuk is a Ukrainian-born Canadian artist, educator, and cultural ambassador whose work blends classical fine art with vibrant Ukrainian folk influences.
Born in Fergana, Uzbekistan, Mariya moved to Ukraine at age 10, where her artistic journey began. She studied drawing and painting at local art studios and graduated from the School of Arts in Kremenchuk. In 1992, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Graphics from the National Pedagogical University in Kharkiv. She began her career as an art teacher at the Kremenchuk School of Arts.
In 1997, Mariya received a degree in Management and Marketing from the National Academy of Government Managerial Staff of Culture and Arts in Kyiv. That same year, she founded The Green Lion Advertising Agency, where she worked as lead designer.
After traveling to many countries and being inspired by diverse cultures, Mariya immigrated to Canada in 2007, settling in Newmarket, Ontario, where she established The Green Lion Art Studio. The studio offers classes in painting, illustration, and graphic design for both children and adults. For over a decade, she has been guiding people of all ages to discover creativity, unlock their inner artistic voice, and experience the joy and healing power of art.
Artistic Style & Themes
Mariya’s artistic expression covers a wide range of subjects: landscapes, seascapes, architecture, boats, wildlife, and florals. Her work is distinguished by expressive brushwork, translucent hues, and a sense of poetry and emotion. Many of her works are infused with Ukrainian cultural motifs, such as Petrykivka painting and traditional symbolism, linking past and present.
Exhibitions & Highlights
Mariya has participated in numerous exhibitions and art festivals across Ontario, including:
- Bezpala Brown Gallery, Toronto (2015)
- Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts (2015)
- Art Club of Newmarket (2016)
- “Art at Heart”, Toronto (2017)
- King City Art Street Festival (2017)
- Featured on Property Brothers TV Show, HGTV (2018)
- Rotunda Show, Barrie City Hall (2021, 2023, 2024)
- Simcoe County Museum (2023, 2024)
- MacLaren Art Centre, including the group exhibition “Against All Odds” and Ukrainian cultural programs
- Muskoka Chapel Gallery, “All Things Maple” (2023)
- Federation of Canadian Artists exhibitions (2023–2024)
- Kempenfest Festival, Barrie (2024)
Community & Cultural Engagement
Mariya plays an active role in the Ukrainian community in Canada, promoting cultural heritage through public art projects, traditional art forms, and creative education. She regularly receives arts grants to develop and share Ukrainian-themed artistic projects.
One of her recent funded initiatives was supported by the Shevchenko Museum in Toronto, where she presented a project exploring “UkrainFlora” — a symbolic interpretation of Ukrainian identity through flowers and traditional design.
Mariya currently leads numerous workshops and community programs and serves as an art instructor at the McLaren Art Gallery and the McLaren Art Centre, helping participants connect to culture, history, and themselves through art.
Teaching & Outreach
Mariya is a dedicated arts educator, offering masterclasses and workshops for children, youth, seniors, and families. Her engaging and inclusive sessions include traditional Ukrainian art forms such as Petrykivka floral painting and Easter egg decorating (Krapanka). She brings her knowledge into diverse environments — from local art festivals to established art institutions — making cultural connection joyful and accessible.
Memberships & Affiliations
Mariya is an active member of:
- Richmond Hill Group of Artists
- Newmarket Group of Artists
- King City Group of Artists
- Barrie Art Club
- Muskoka Art Club
- Federation of Canadian Artists
Let’s Connect
Whether through exhibitions, collaborative projects, cultural workshops, or community initiatives, Mariya brings a rich blend of skill, vision, and heartfelt creativity. Her passion lies in sharing art as a tool for joy, reflection, healing, and cultural identity.