Instructor - Sam Paonessa

Sam Paonessa is professional artist who has enjoyed a creative career spanning over 35 years. He graduated from the Ontario College of Art in Toronto and was awarded the Canadian Studio Scholarship Award. He was then hired by one of Canada’s largest commercial art studios, TDF Artists, where he worked as an illustrator.

He subsequently joined Hallmark Cards Canada in roles of illustrator and later art director. Hallmark provided him with valuable experience and opportunity to create a wide variety of products for retail market. Over 600 paintings were reproduced during his time with Hallmark.