Mekayla Dionne

Mekayla Dionne is an emerging Métis artist who recently graduated from OCAD University. Based out of Toronto, Ontario, Mekayla produces abstract paintings in which she explores colour relationships, composition, and layering. Through many—sometimes dozens— of acrylic layers, she creates thick tactile patterns. The landscape of her paintings are often laden in ridges, denoting where each masked layer occurred. The smooth acrylic surface alongside the ridged edge of each layer work together to create a unique tactile experience as well as an intricate visual adventure.

Mekayla also creates digital paintings, using a similar layering technique, comparing how digital layers leave no trace but acrylic layers are often visually apparent. Mekayla has an interest in poetry and combining written work with visual art in what she calls "word collages", which is a developing project.

Alongside her art practice she also works as the Program Manager at a local non-profit, Art City in St. James Town, with a vision of an accessible arts education for all children. At Art City Mekayla has taught various painting, drawing, and mixed media classes to children aged 6-13 years. She takes great pride in bringing art into children's lives who might not otherwise have arts experiences.