11. The Toronto years (1985 to 1995)

The Toronto years truly marked the beginning of a new direction in my life. The primary reason for moving from Vancouver was the hope of finding better economic opportunities in Canada’s economic heartland.

Shortly after settling in Toronto, a friend of my dad suggested that I pursue a career in nursing. So, in September 1986, I enrolled in a three-year nursing program at George Brown College.

During the college years, painting was not a priority, but once graduated and having secured a job at the Toronto Hospital, I found time to nurture my artistic interests. In hindsight, it was during this period that my artwork began to take on a distinct style and a sense of maturity.