Denzel

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

I had a great respect for Mr. Martel before I started this project. I had seen and even been given one of Martel's paintings last year. When I started researching Martel's art work, I was amazed at how diverse and the range of styles he painted in. I had no idea that he could paint pictures in the styles of Van Gogh and even like Canadian Ted Harrison. Yet, Martel can also paint everything from barns to elephants, and be so individualistic in his choices of bold colours and artistic creativity including everything from mandalas to sunsets to create vibrant art.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

Heritage Fairs do not have to only be about people and events in our past. We can look around and find people in our community, province and nation who are Canadians that are positively affecting our world today. We can be challenged and encouraged by them to do the same. This is why I chose to do a current figure: Paul Martel.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

I was affected by the topic that I chose to do, (my teacher from last year) because he inspired me to explore art.