Dominique Joly

Dominique Joly is an Ontario-based artist working primarily in watercolour, ink, and ballpoint pen. Her work centres on realistic portraiture that emphasizes expression, presence, and the subtle character of her subject rather than photographic precision.

Drawing since childhood, Dominique has maintained a lifelong creative practice alongside a professional career in public service. Over the years, she has explored a wide range of artistic disciplines, including painting, writing, music, and performance. This broad artistic background continues to inform her artwork.

Dominique's portraits balance structure and spontaneity. Working with fluid and unforgiving materials, she allows small variations in line, wash, and mark-making to remain visible, lending each sense of immediacy and individuality to each piece. Her approach favours observation and emotional accuracy over hyper-realism, inviting viewers to engage with the subject as a living presence rather than a polished surface.

Transitioning to a full-time art practice in 2027, Dominique Joly is committed to developing a sustained body of work that reflects both technical discipline and quiet intimacy.

She lives and works in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

I've been drawing for as long as I can remember and started to focus primarily on portraits in 2022. I've always been drawn to portraiture and the way it can suggest a person's inner life.

I work primarily with watercolour, ink, and ballpoint pen because they demand attention and honesty. These materials don't allow for much correction, and I truly enjoy that balance between control and surrender. I aim for realism with a touch of humanity.

As I move into a full-time art practice, my focus is on creating thoughtful portraits that invite viewers to slow down and truly look.