A Toronto-based artist whose paintings balance contrast and cohesion
Alexandra Zanina is a self-taught visual artist based in Toronto, Canada. Her journey began in early childhood with graphite sketches, followed by a period of working in oil pastels, then finally landing on acrylic paints. Encouraged by her mother, Alexandra honed her skills independently, cultivating a practice focused on high detail and visual exploration.
Her work explores the layered contradictions of the human experience, weaving elements of surrealism, symbolism, and everyday life. Alexandra invites viewers into introspective spaces that challenge perception and stir an emotional response.
In addition to her artistic practice, Alexandra works full-time in the Commercial and Legal space, and actively competes as a Fencer. A passionate traveler, Alexandra draws inspiration from the places she visits. Her multifaceted lifestyle informs the layered narrative in her paintings, reflecting themes of contrast, resilience, and transformation.
Alexandra is also committed to artistic mentorship and community-building. She lead a multi-month advanced painting course for newcomers to Canada through a City of Toronto sponsored program, offering guidance and technical development to emerging artists.
Since 2021, her work has entered private collections across North America and been exhibited in group shows including RAW Artists (Toronto and Montreal, 2023), Pancakes & Booze (Toronto, 2023), Art on a Tuesday (Toronto, 2022), and several private events in Toronto. Her work will next be featured at the Gerrard Morning Parade Coffee Bar in September 2025.