Artist Statement
My work explores the intricate balance between risk, chaos, and calm in the human experience. Through a variety of mediums and techniques, I aim to convey the tension that exists within us as we navigate the unpredictable nature of life. The chaotic elements symbolize the turbulence and uncertainty we often face, while the moments of calm represent our desire for order and peace amidst the storm. By juxtaposing these forces, I invite viewers to reflect on their own inner struggles, the risks they take, and the fleeting moments of tranquility that allow them to reset and find meaning. Ultimately, my work is a meditation on the fragility and resilience of the human condition, and the way we constantly oscillate between control and surrender.
Carolyn Laidley Arn is a professional artist, retired interior designer and a senior professional in commercial real estate in Toronto, Canada.
Carolyn regularly participates in juried outdoor art fairs including Toronto Outdoor Art Fair, Riverdale ArtWalk, Oakville Art in the Park, ArtWalk in the Square and Queen West ArtCrawl. Her work has been included in juried group shows in Canada and the United States. She is represented by galleries in Toronto, Hamilton and Cincinnati, Ohio. Carolyn’s work is held in collections in Canada, United States, Germany and Australia.
Carolyn is extremely active in the art scene. She is the immediate Past Chair of Artists’ Network, and an elected member in the Society of Canadian Artists (2025) and Ontario Society of Artists (2023).
About the artist
Gallery Representation
Blue Crow Gallery, 1610 Gerrard St E, Toronto
Crown and Press, 303 Ottawa St N, Hamilton
ADC Gallery, 1013 York St, Cincinnati, Ohio
Professional Memberships
Society of Canadian Artists, Elected 2025
Ontario Society of Artists, Elected 2023
Federation of Canadian Artists, active
Artists’ Network, Chair of the Board 2023-2025
Juried Exhibition List
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (2025, 2024, 2023)
Riverdale ArtWalk, Toronto (2018-2025)
ArtWalk in the Square , Toronto (2024, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018)
Cabbagetown Art Festival, Toronto (2024, 2023, 2022, 2021)
Summer Break, Solo show, Artwrk.ca
Wall Candy Art Exposition, Ottawa (2023, 2022)
QueenWest ArtCrawl, Toronto (2022, 2019, 2018)
Stouffville Art in the Park, Stouffville (2023, 2022, 2021)
ArtFest, Kingston (2022)
Art in the Park, Oakville (2024, 2023, 2022)
Juried Group Shows:
In The Abstract, San Fernando Valley Arts & CC (2024)
Great Artists Steal, Art Center Sarasota (2024)
Red Dot Miami, ADC Gallery (2023)
Art Comes Alive, ADC Gallery, Cincinnati (2023)
Abstract, Aird Gallery (2023)
Echoes, Women’s Art Association, Toronto (2022)
Blue Crow Gallery, Summer Show (2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019)
Leslie Grove Gallery-various juried shows, (2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018)
