Feature: Anna Borsellino – Art by Anna

Born and raised in Toronto, a journey through self love and acceptance has been the inspiration for her artistic endeavours.

Pure emotion has been the ultimate goal.

Unlayering the masks of self in order to reach the highest creative potential; With no formal visual arts training, Anna M. Borsellino-Roumeliotis is a self taught abstract painter who relys on personal triumphs and failures as the emotional engine which propels artistic growth forward.

A Fashion Business graduate with a former career in International Supply Chain Management, Anna is now a full-time Artist and we couldn’t be happier about the pieces she curated for us at Minerva.

With the opportunity to sit down with Anna, we dove into how cannabis has affected her work and how it continues to shape the future she sees for herself.

How did you find your style of art and what did it take to get to where you are today?

I am an abstract painter using primarily acrylic on cotton or linen. I started painting (again) almost two years ago after a hiatus of 10 plus years. I found this style in the best way, by coincidence and trusting intuitive feelings. I’d like to think that where I am today in terms of artistic style and expression is the result of constant self reflection. I’ve become somewhat of a recluse in my journey of self; for the sake of my art.

How has cannabis specifically played a part in the creative process?

Abstract was always difficult for me when I was younger; It requires a fair bit of trust in yourself. After I picked up the brush this second time around, it was the first style I dove into. The style and desire to grow within its realm pushed me through quite a journey of self love and trust.

Using cannabis, predominantly smoking it, helped loosen me up and allowed me to get out of my head and flow which can be hard when you have aspects of mental health that would otherwise render you too wound up find that flow.

How has cannabis influenced your life and do you support the legal industry?

Cannabis has been apart of my life for almost two decades. It has always been a staple in our culture; now that it is legalized, it’s both interesting and exciting to me. Legalization changes the conversation around cannabis by offering a positive voice. I am by no means a doctor, however I believe that there are so many practical aspects of safe usage that if approached properly and with the correct knowledge, can be beneficial.

What does the future look like for Anna Borsellino?

I joke that I am going to take over the world.

While that may be quite a large goal, I believe very much in the ripple effect. On a micro level, I would hope to make a positive impact within the community around me through my art and further, my voice. To have someone say that they are inspired enough to express themselves because of how my art makes them feel is the highest, yet most humbling of compliments.

What are you using right now?

I always have a pack of Redees with me just in case. Thy elevate the smoking experience for me. Quick, easy and I dare to say adorable. They are also a great conversation started and introduction to anyone that smokes cigarettes regularly. I am also an avid user of the Dosecann CBD Oil. It will forever be in my medicine cabinet as a tool for post workout soreness.