Vanaja Cotroneo
Come Roll Back to Me, 18 x 24 Oil
Vanaja Cotroneo began painting while working full-time, but it wasn’t until 1995 that she pursued it seriously. After overcoming a life-changing accident in 1996, she returned to painting in 1998, embracing it as both a passion and a means of storytelling.
Her artistic education includes studies at the Haliburton School of the Arts, Loyalist College, and portraiture classes at OCAD, along with mentorship from esteemed artists through various workshops.
Vanaja’s work is a visual narrative inspired by her extensive travels. Whether capturing fleeting moments, the beauty of nature, or the brilliance of forests, florals, and the ocean, her paintings reflect a deep connection to the world around her. She also creates pet portraits, donating a portion to charitable causes.
Her work has been exhibited in numerous shows and has received many awards, including:
- Third Prize in the prestigious 2023 Elora Plein Air Competition
- Gold Prize (COAA) 2024
- Best Oil (COAA) 2022
- Best Acrylic (TAGS) 2024
- Multiple Special Merit, Honourable Mention, and Award of Excellence recognitions from TAGS and DVAC.
An active member of the Art Guild, Vanaja serves as Exhibition Chair on the Executive. She is also a member of:
- Arts on the Credit (AOTC)
- East Central Ontario Art Association (ECOAA)
- Central Ontario Art Association (COAA)
- Oakville Art Society
Additionally, she has had the honor of judging the following art competitions:
- The Children’s Painting Competition for Freedom ‘24 by New Horizon Media Arts (May 2024)
• Panorama India’s Art Competition (July 2024)
Email: Vanaja.art@gmail.com
Website: www.Vanaja-Fineart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanajaart/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanajasFineArt
Tender Colours, 12 x 12 Oil
Sparkles From the Shore, 16 x 16 Oil
Sandbanks Trail, 12 x 12 Oil