This piece is part of a mini series inspired by nightly walks with Hiro, our neighborhood good boy. Having a dog has definitely changed my lifestyle over the past nine years, and I’m deeply grateful for all the joy he’s brought into my life. Hiro has also strengthened the bond between my fiancé and me, as we share these walks each night, giving us time to unwind from the day’s busyness. It’s during these moments that we catch up—sharing what’s going on in our lives, our feelings, and aspirations for the future. Sometimes, it’s just voicing our opinions on the random topics that come up. On these walks, we encounter countless animals—raccoons, skunks (many, many skunks), possums, rabbits, foxes, squirrels, and cats. I felt inspired to bring a whimsical touch to my paintings by humanizing these urban animals, especially raccoons, as they are characteristically part of Toronto culture. These walks have brought us closer together as a family, and some nights the views are truly magical. Through my paintings, I hope to capture that magic and romance, inviting you to experience the wonder and connection we feel on those quiet, star-lit nights.

Celia Lin Blake

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Celia is an emerging contemporary artist based in Toronto. Inspired by the beauty of animals, nature, and the world around her, she explores social and cultural boundaries, encouraging viewers to see familiar things from new perspectives. She aims to create meaningful connections with her clients through art — by creating pieces that fit seamlessly into personal spaces. Above all, she aspires to bring a sense of joy and wonder through her artwork.