Biography

Interviewed at her studio on Pender Island in November 2010 by Karen Elgersma for KVIC Victoria TV, Eha Onno discussed the process of her painting.  She paints because it feeds her soul.  Painting involves a whole-body process where the physical movement becomes part of the completed image.  This process lends itself to larger works and to the use of acrylic paint.  As acrylics dry more quickly than oil paint, more layers can be added in succession to create an exquisite depth to each piece.

 Onno’s shows at the Morning Bay Winery on Pender Island, British Columbia, have been well-attended with good sales.  Morning Bay Winery has featured her work in solo shows in 2007, 2008, and 2009.  And, she is amidst work on larger paintings that will be featured in her July/August 2011 show at the Winery.  Local artists have raved about workshops taught by Onno on Pender Island.  One dynamic workshop dealt with painting with acrylics.  Another focused on Chinese ink drawing.

 Onno has studied art at the University of Washington and at the University of British Columbia.  At the UBC she came under the spell of Peter Aspell. Her early influences included her aunt, the painter, Mai Onno.  She continues to be fascinated and influenced by the art of Asia. 

 Onno was awarded her first art prize (a rabbit fur covered stuffed kitten) in her kindergarten class, for best drawing.  She has twice won awards for her photography. And, one of her photographs was chosen for the cover of a book of poetry.

 Eha’s paintings can be found in personal and corporate collections in Canada, the U.S., and Australia.  Her most recent commission was for abstract acrylic pieces measuring 36 x 72” and a 36 x 84” for a private residence. Calendars featuring her work are enjoyed worldwide.  The production of the calendars has become an annual event; the series has sold out every year since 2009.