I am Marj Kidd, a professional portrait artist working from live models and photos - painting in oils,
sketching in charcoal. I also make dolls which may be portraits themselves, set with clocks etc., and cards in watercolour and ink. The cards include original artwork and poetry, and if requested, custom art and poetry to commemorate important occasions. To heighten the excitement and energy of my paintings and cards, I have lately incorporated: fabrics, jewelry, dried flowers, flourishes, and mementos personal to the client.

I experience deep joy in my work and there is not a single model I have painted, however they were formed, however they expressed themselves, that I have not painted with honest appreciation. My earliest memories are of the intense complexities of human interaction. Artistically my work is a respectful, poetic exploration that pays tribute to them.

Portraiture involves the delicate balance between realism and artistic interpretation. I am sensitive to this balance and can provide digital photos of the portrait as it progresses. This allows the client to have some input and helps to ensure satisfaction with the final work of art.

My Crafty Heart studio is located in Vancouver, BC.