Beyond Boundaries with Amy J. Dyck

Contemporary figurative artist, Amy J. Dyck’s work is a unique mix of representational and expressionism. Using mainly oils and drawing mediums, she strives to express something deeper in the human experience than can be observed by the trained eye. Internationally recognised, Amy has won numerous awards. Her painting ‘Collective’ placed 2nd in the Federation of Canadian Artists 2020 ‘On The Edge’ competition. 

Every piece I make is some sort of a challenge to myself to try to do a variation or something new that I haven’t succeeded in before. I really enjoy realism, but I love pushing against the limits of it. When I applied to ‘On The Edge’, I wanted to see if I could challenge this notion that figures have to be still – maybe they can move and shift or maybe they can be more than what we expect at first glance.

I submit to competitions all the time. I want to become better, so there’s nothing like getting a painting out of my studio and putting it on the wall next to 30 other people. If there’s a good prize or if I feel it’ll help me build some recognition, I will sometimes tailor my work to a show, but usually I will look for pieces that I’ve already made. Juried shows really help us to find out who we are by comparing ourselves against what’s out there. Seeing where my work fits in the broader scheme gives a lot of perspective on how I’m communicating, and observing how people respond, react and experience that work is invaluable. 

“Juried shows really help us to find out who we are by comparing ourselves against what’s out there.”

I find it helps to be part of an arts organization like the FCA because it’s a place where you can build community. It helps you to make connections, get to know how the art systems function and how shows work. Through the FCA, I’ve been able to participate in and also jury some shows, which I probably wouldn’t have done as quickly if I wasn’t part of that organization. I’ve appreciated those opportunities.

“I find it helps to be part of an arts organisation like the FCA because it’s a place where you can build community.”

Something I’ve learned a lot about recently is this idea of getting used to discomfort and trying to build tolerance for discomfort because that’s how we grow. I apply to shows and get used to rejections because they’re uncomfortable. And the more rejections I get, the more I get used to that discomfort and the less intimidating it is.

“Something I’ve learned a lot about recently is this idea of getting used to discomfort and trying to build tolerance for discomfort because that’s how we grow.”

Amy J Dyck’s website and Instagram

Ready to go beyond your own boundaries?  Visit the Federation of Canadian Artists‘ website today and enter this year’s On The Edge – submit today!