For several years, I’ve been following artist and entrepreneur STEPHANIE BELLEFLEUR whose work graces the giant exterior walls of office and apartment blocks as well as canvases suitable for homes and businesses. Influenced by her Venezuelan heritage, Stephanie shares stunning paintings of wildlife and mystic imagery and is now creating a “guidebook” for emerging artists to discover their own talents and to embrace art as a way to heal spiritual and emotional challenges. Now in its early stages, the book will include Stephanie’s own path to healing and discovery along with all the pitfalls she overcame along the way, and all the successes and joy she found pursuing her career as a working artist. I asked Stephanie to share her thoughts as the book starts to come together….
Stephanie, what an exciting project you’ve just started – a book on how you’ve carved a career in the art world that will also be a guide or “map” for others. What inspired you to launch what will be many months of research and writing? My work in public art has always been rooted in community, mentorship, and using creativity as a bridge. Writing has been part of my life since youth—first through songwriting, then journaling—especially as a brown girl growing up in a small town in southern Saskatchewan. Growing up with ADHD, learning disabilities, and in an immigrant household, language often felt like a barrier. This book emerged as a way to reclaim my voice and offer a blueprint from my own journey—something that might help other artists navigate their paths with confidence. It has also asked me to step into a creative space I once didn’t feel brave enough to claim.
Where did you study art and when did the “light bulb turn on” that art was the way forward (or out) for you? My creative journey hasn’t been linear. Music was my first love, but life as a young single mother pushed me to seek stability and purpose. A major turning point came through The Remix Project, where I gained access to mentorship, professional studios, and creative direction during a difficult period of my life. That experience led me back to school and eventually to visual art. While living in Toronto, I followed my intuition to Centennial College, where I completed Art and Design Foundations and Fine Art Studio, alongside mural and aerial-work certifications. In 2016, I registered The Haus of Bellefleur, marking the start of my professional art practice.
What first drew you to painting and, in particular, large-scale murals? I had never painted before art school. Large-scale work immediately felt natural—small formats felt restrictive. A visit to Miami’s Wynwood Arts District confirmed what I already felt: I wanted to create accessible, public art that lived in everyday spaces. Because of this, my exhibitions have been intentional and limited. My practice is rooted in murals and community-based work, prioritizing visibility, access, and impact over traditional gallery pathways. 
Some artists paint because they love it, others paint because they must….what sort of artist are you? I paint because I must. My work is intuitive and responsive, shaped by energy, place, and community need. I see art as a way to restore balance, hold care, and respond to social and emotional realities within shared spaces.
As you start the writing process, what do you see as the most daunting aspect to creating the book? Writing still brings vulnerability. But it has also been a lifelong refuge and an essential tool in my practice. This book asks me to be honest and open-hearted. It’s not just about art—it’s about connection, compassion, and finding our way back to ourselves.
SKArt has funded your writing endeavour – how did you discover the Grant? Do they offer any other support for artists? This book is supported by Saskatchewan Arts’ Building Arts Equity: BPOC Program, which supports artists of colour through funding for creation, mentorship, public presentation, and community partnerships. This support made it possible for me to dedicate time and care to this work.
Wow, what an adventure you’re already had to date – this book is going to be such a literary adventure for an artist to share. Bravo, Steph!
Stay tuned for more news on Stephanie Bellefleur the artist and the writer – much more to come.
Visit her website to learn more: thehausofbellefleur.com or follow Steph on Facebook and Instagram.
