My studio practice and educational work are deeply interconnected, driven by the conviction that art transcends mere expression to become a vital tool for mindfulness, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement. Through layered, process-based painting, I investigate materiality and memory, while in education, I develop approaches that cultivate visual literacy, problem-solving, and reflective inquiry through care-based, process oriented pedagogy.
This dual focus allows me to contribute to both the contemporary art landscape and the evolving field of art education. I invite you to explore my work and consider the possibilities for collaboration and dialogue.
Artist Statement
My practice is quiet explorations of memory, motherhood, and the fleeting intimacy of everyday life. I am drawn to the small, often overlooked moments that slip by unnoticed, a child absorbed in play, a fleeting glance, a music lesson, a child drifting off to sleep. These moments are not monumental, but they are profoundly human: tender, imperfect, and alive with the weight of memory.
Through my work, I aim to capture the nostalgia of these private experiences, preserving the ephemeral and creating space for reflection. My paintings embrace the beauty of the ordinary, inviting viewers to slow down, linger, and recognize the significance in what might otherwise be forgotten. The textures and layers in my work mirror the layering of memory itself, how moments are remembered, reshaped, and carried forward.
Motherhood has profoundly shaped both my perspective and my practice. It has taught me to observe mindfully, to value patience and presence, and to find meaning in the quiet corners of life. My work is an homage to these moments, the soft, candid, intimate experiences that define our daily lives and a reminder that the extraordinary often lives within the ordinary.
Bio.
I am a Montreal-based painter and art educator whose work centres on motherhood, memory, and childhood. I hold a BA in Art History and am currently pursuing a Master’s in Art Education, where I explore process-oriented, care-based approaches to creative practice and teaching.
Over time, my practice has evolved from abstracted, layered explorations of form and texture toward paintings that capture the intimacy and nostalgia of daily life. My work celebrates the small, private moments that often go unnoticed—the quiet rituals and candid experiences that shape childhood and family life.
In my home studio, which doubles as a teaching space, I approach painting with curiosity, care, and attentiveness, creating work that invites reflection and connection. Both in my studio and the classroom, I strive to create spaces where presence, observation, and appreciation for the ordinary are valued, and where the quiet richness of life can be celebrated.
Education
Concordia University, M.A Art Education, (In process)
Mcgill University, B.A. Art History, 2006
Inter-dec College, Graphic Design, 2011
Dawson College, D.E.C Creative Arts, 2002
Related Experience.
Painting and Drawing educator at Mon Studio Art,
Press / Publications
2023 - Illustrator, Not Like Mine, by Nairy Kazandjian,
2021 - Flash Art by Kiki Sterling Gallery,
2008 - Belgo, Summer Hues Exhibition , Gallery Luz
2007 - 2300 Victoria, Solo Exhibition.
Lectures and workshops
Painting workshops at Kanvaz Atelier de Peinture
Owner and Founder of MonStudio.art
Exhibitions
2024 - ARTE680/880 Pop-Up Research Showcase.
2024 - Pierrefond Cultural Art Gala
2023 - Pierrefond Cultural Art Gala
2021 - Escales Montreal, Gallery Erga / Kiki Sterling Gallery, Montreal.
2020 - Rave Art Fare, Miami.
2019 - SeeMe Exhibition Space, The Affordable Art Fair, New York.
2019 - Equorum, KPW Productions, Wellington Florida.
2018- Raw, Montreal
2008 - Summer Hues, Gallery Luz, Montreal
Collections
Works held in private collections in Canada, United States and Europe.
Résumé
Montreal, Qc | 514-578-2014 | info@zarikazandjian.com | www.monstudio.art | www.zarikazandjian.com
Profile
Experienced art educator and researcher with expertise in inclusive, process-based pedagogy and studio-based learning. Skilled in mentoring, course planning, and supporting student research and creative projects. Seeking a teaching assistant position to facilitate academic and artistic development.
Education
· Master of Arts in Art Education – Concordia University, Montreal, QC – (2025-In progress)
· Bachelor of Arts in Art History – McGill University, Montreal, QC (2006)
· A.E.C. in Graphic Design – Inter-Dec College, Montreal, QC (2009)
· D.E.C. in Creative Arts – Dawson College, Montreal, QC (2002)
· Certificate in Accounting & Finance for Non-Financial Managers – McGill University (2022)
Teaching & Educational Experience
Teacher – Vanguard School, Montreal, QC (March 2025 – Present)
· Teach Grade 11 Methodologies course, fostering research, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
· Support diverse learners and maintain inclusive classroom engagement.
· Mentor students individually on academic and creative development.
· Teach research processes and analytical skills for post-secondary readiness.
· Substitute across English and French sectors, in both elementary and high school, ensuring continuity an instruction.
Art Teacher (Sick Leave Replacement) – Sourp Hagop School, Montreal, QC (Nov 2024–Feb 2025)
Developed a trimester-long art curriculum aligned with Quebec education standards.
Evaluated student work emphasizing both the creative process.
· Integrated reflective practices, critique sessions and process-based learning.
Founder & Art Teacher – MonStudio.art, Montreal, QC (2020–Present)
· Design and deliver personalized art programs for students aged 3–16, integrating traditional and digital tools.
· Facilitate workshops emphasizing critical thinking, self-expression, and collaborative learning.
· Develop inclusive, relationship-centred learning environments.
Extracurricular Art Teacher
· Académie Marie de France, Montreal, QC (2024)
· Art Educator – Camp Hayortyats, Montreal, QC (Summer 2021–2022)
Research and creative interests
o Process-Based and Relational Art Pedagogy.
o Mindfulness and empathy in art education.
o Interdisciplinary learning and experiential studio practices.
o Ritual, space and embodied learning in arts pedagogy.
o Research-creation and creative methodologies.
o Attention, presence and reflective practice in studio-based learning.
Pedagogical and Academic Skills
o Course planning, syllabus support, and lesson design.
o Assessment and rubric development.
o Facilitating group discussions and critiques.
o Providing constructive academic and studio feedback.
o Supporting students in research, writing and project development.
o Knowledge of inclusive and differentiated pedagogy.
Research and Administrative Skills
o Process-Qualitative research methods: reflective journaling and observational notes.
o Literature review, academic writing and citation management.
o Strong organizational and collaborative skills for project coordination.
Technical & Artistic Skills
o Software: Adobe creative suite, Procreate, Microsoft Office, Google workspace.
o Media: Drawing, painting, digital illustration, mixed media.
o Languages: English, French, Armenian.