Chris Drake

Chris Drake’s art reflects the beauty he sees everywhere: sunshine on water, clouds, leaves on trees, sunsets, his breath fogging in the cold, lightening and the unique perspective his Down syndrome gives him. He draws inspiration from nature, weather, photos, his own imagination and loves bright vibrant colours, patterns and repetition. He enjoys working in a variety of media, from acrylics and watercolours to charcoal or mixed media. Thus Chris’s works are as varied as the stars and as happy as his smile.

A longtime Carleton Place resident, Chris is well known for his warm smiles, enthusiastic cheers at hockey games and his varied and colourful art. While Chris has always done art, making elaborate designs with his toys and abstract colouring with his markers, it was in High School that his art took off. He participated in his first shows, sold his first painting and helped inspire his teacher, Sarah Jaynes, to hold the Without Exception Art Workshops for students with challenges like him. Chris twice received honourable mentions from the Jane Cameron Art Award for his paintings and won in 2010. He has participated in shows in Carleton Place, Almonte and Ottawa. Currently, his art is displayed in Carleton Place at the Art Hub, Surrounding Memories and Temptations as well as the ConnectWell office.

Send Chris an email or check out his Facebook page