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	Motyka the Art Maven Jane Motyka enhances Port Credit’s arts scene, one painting at a time
	Amongst the trendy strip of cafés and shops on Port Credit’s Lakeshore Road is a little piece of heaven, the Motyka Contemporary Fine Arts Gallery. Grab a café latte, wander into this eclectic arts space and lose yourself in this hidden gem. Whether you’re looking to invest in an original piece of art or simply dabble in a fine arts class, a trip to Motyka Fine Arts is a must-do for any arts aficionado. “Art helps you discover yourself and makes you realize that there’s more to life than your everyday reality,” explains Jane Motyka, the owner and art director of Motyka Fine Arts. At 27 years of age, this Eastern European beauty has much to be proud of.  An accomplished artist in her own right, Jane is also a popular arts promoter and teacher. A multi-talented do-it-yourselfer, Jane explains the secrets to her entrepreneurial success during our GoodLife Magazine shoot. “When you want the job done, you do it yourself,” she says. No stranger to power tools, Jane is known to roll up her sleeves to tear down walls, build painting frames, drywall and repaint. Some people just seem to have that “spark” that can make something out of nothing and Jane is certainly one of those magic individuals. After graduating from the Ontario College of Art and Design with her B.A. in Fine Arts, Jane boldly opened her gallery in 2008. “Really my inspiration to open this gallery was purely selfish,” confesses Jane. “I wanted to be around art all the time. It inspires me to be creative. I live around art, I dream art and then I manifest those dreams in my life. Art pushes me forward.” Why shouldn’t it? Being surrounded by original art is so inspiring -  it’s almost a spiritual experience. Investing in an original piece is a personal decision that will give back to you tenfold. Forget going to Ikea for your next art purchase, head out to Motyka Fine Arts where you can select an original work from Jane’s breathtaking selection of acrylics and watercolours. “The artwork I showcase in my gallery isn’t kitsch,” Jane emphasizes. “The works I showcase are contemporary, challenging pieces that require reaction. They demand more thinking and contemplation.” When she’s not in the gallery showcasing her work, Jane is out in the community spreading her love of fine arts. A steady fixture on the local arts scene, Jane has been involved in numerous events including the Design Hope Peel Fundraiser (supporting Family Services of Peel), the Port Credit Outdoor Art Show and Buskerfest among numerous others. A passionate entrepreneur, Motyka confesses to working ‘round the clock and maintaining a seven day work week. “It’s been challenging but rewarding to have a business in Port Credit,” Jane discloses.  “There have been dark times that have tested my passion and my character but I’ve always persevered and overcome. Through this journey I’ve gained confidence and there’s been a shift in my perspective on life.” Jane cites exhibiting the work of local artists Claudio Ghirardo and Steven Paul Fulton as personal career highlights. “We have a special thing here in Port Credit. I think the artists in our community are very passionate, creative and talented. Artists here have the drive to succeed and they also want to communicate their ideas and share their vision.” When asked her secrets to success, Jane reveals her secret weapon, her positive outlook on life. “You can do anything. Focus on creating your reality and seize your opportunity. That’s your freedom.” So what’s next for Motyka? With an increased focus on online arts promotion, Jane plans to continue along her path in the arts. She explains, “I’m in a good spot now. I’m excited about expanding my work as an online-arts promoter and website designer. I’m excited about what life’s going to bring me. Every day really is a new opportunity.” GL