Biography

Canadian abstract artist Sarah Phelps creates bold, vibrant paintings with a strong emphasis on movement, energy, and emotion. She grew up as an artist and originally planned to pursue a degree in art, but changed direction at the last minute to study biology because of her love of animals. After earning an Honours B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Waterloo, she spent over a decade working as a Wildlife Biologist, studying mammals, reptiles, and amphibians across Canada, as well as Koalas and Wallabies in Australia.

Although she built a career in science, art remained a constant passion and eventually drew her back. Today, her background in biology continues to influence her work, often expressed through nature-inspired themes, especially in her ocean pieces, and a deep awareness of natural rhythms and relationships.

Working primarily in acrylic and mixed media, Phelps creates paintings that are engaging, energetic, and expressive. Her work is known for inspiring people, offering a sense of healing, and resonating on a personal level. Many people see their own experiences reflected in her paintings, creating emotional resonance and a sense of shared experience. She believes each piece is meant for someone, and that connection is a central part of her practice.

Phelps has exhibited across North America and internationally, including at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris and in exhibitions in Turin, Italy. Her work has been featured in the Globe & Mail, Toronto’s CityLine, Houzz, and a New York art competition.

Her paintings are held in private and corporate collections, including BarChef, as well as hotels such as the Westin Houston Medical Centre and Marriott properties in California. She has also developed a strong base of repeat collectors, with some building extensive collections of her work.

Please contact sarah@sarahphelps.com with inquiries.

Sarah is located in British Columbia.

@inspiresarah