Created by
Della
Harchit by Della Vaz in Toronto
Harchit
This is Harchit at 6 years old. Painting him at this age felt like reaching back to the beginning of the person I know now, someone steady and gentle in ways that continue to anchor me. When we met in December 2025, I wasn’t searching for anything certain. I was still learning how to stand on my own again, unsure of what I wanted or what I could trust.
Yet he entered my life with a quiet kind of care, the kind that doesn’t announce itself but slowly reshapes the air around you. His childhood unfolded differently than mine, but what stayed with me was not the difficulty. It was the strength he carried forward, the kindness he chose, the way he encourages me to follow what I love without hesitation.
The colours in this painting hold that truth. The warm reds behind him carry the weight of memory, while the soft blues across his shirt and the gentle light on his face speak to the calm he brings into my life. The hand resting near his chest became a moment I kept returning to, a gesture that felt like the beginning of something tender.
I started this painting before either of us said the words out loud. In many ways, it became the first time I said them. Every brushstroke is a quiet confession, a way of honouring who he was, who he became, and the unexpected joy of finding someone who makes you want to grow alongside them.
Size: 12in (W) X 24in (H)
Meet the Artist
Meet the Artist
Toronto, CanadaI am an artist-educator, Ontario Certified Teacher, and professional visual artist based in Oakville, Ontario. My practice centers on large-scale figurative oil painting on custom-toned grounds, exploring themes of portraiture, family bonds, identity, and memory. In 2026, I was honored with the Mississauga Arts Award (MARTY) for Emerging Visual Artist in Traditional Arts, and my work has been recognized internationally through the Global Undergraduate Awards.
What Inspires Me & My Process
My work is deeply rooted in human connection, relational history, and the emotional resonance of shared spaces. I build custom grey grounds for my canvases, layering oil paint to capture candid, unposed portraiture that highlights subtle body language, vulnerability, and intergenerational ties. I am inspired by the quiet strength found in everyday mentorship, family dynamics, and the personal stories that connect us all.
Skills & Expertise
Specialization: Large-scale figurative oil painting, custom canvas preparation, and classical/contemporary glazing techniques.
Versatility: Skilled across diverse mediums including drawing, clay, and mixed media for custom commissions.
Community & Leadership: Experienced in curating public exhibitions, designing community art programs, and delivering tailored instruction for clients of all ages.
Whether creating a custom portrait, a large-scale statement piece, or leading a collaborative arts initiative, I bring technical precision, emotional depth, and a passion for storytelling to every project.
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