This artist is inspired by — and protective of — nature's sacred spaces
Linda Thieu, a first-generation Canadian and self-taught artist from Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia, discussed her art and what inspires her about living on the East Coast.
Linda Thieu wonders how the ‘magic and mystery’ of the East Coast can be preserved
Linda explains her inspiration
My inspiration comes from the things I experience around my home or while out exploring with my dog. Seeing bobcat kittens sunbathing, a great horned owl – painted above – perched on my house, otters and birds fishing, hares, foxes, coyotes, the life cycles of the plants and wildlife in their natural setting, is interesting and exciting.
I love living by the ocean and being surrounded by nature. There's a bit of mystery and magic living along the coast.
I've had achievements in academics and sports, I became a yoga teacher, I had a TV series about exploring Nova Scotia's coast, I was a former performing circus aerialist, and have worked for 18 years and counting with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. I feel like I've lived a lot of lives and there's more to come. My parents were boat people, refugees from the Vietnam War who came to Nova Scotia in hopes of a better life for my brother and myself. My greatest achievement would be making them proud and finding ways to give back and help others.
What is your motto?
You can start later in life and still succeed by staying curious and dedicated to your practice. Some people are naturally talented and I'm not one of those people. Any new avenue I decide to deeply explore, I've put in a lot of hours dedicating myself to the study and practice. It's a journey of challenging growth and rewarding progress.
What is your favourite activity on the East Coast?
I love late summer and fall camping. The days are warm, the nights are cool, and the trees are putting on their season finale show of colours.
Travelling. I love experiencing different places and tasting local food. I like to connect with local people and hear about their lives. The east coast is growing in diversity, and it's wonderful experiencing different cultures and foods so close to home. It can inspire my next destination.
I love street art, from painted fire hydrants to big wall murals. There are benefits to cultural expression, community engagement, urban beautification, supporting emerging artists, and, most importantly, making art accessible.
Where can people connect with you?
Facebook: Linda Thieu
Instagram: @lindatyoga
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