Originally from Shippagan, I have cerebral palsy. Despite my disability, I lead an active life. In May 2023, I completed a postsecondary diploma in Recreation, Sport and Tourism Management at the Université de Moncton.

Since 2010, I have been giving talks on accessibility in public spaces as well as on my personal journey. I’ve been invited to many places to share my experiences as a disabled person – including at the Université de Moncton’s Shippagan and Moncton campuses. I have been drawing since childhood, and over the years this hobby has become a passion.

In 2018, I began adding empty wheelchairs into my drawings – images meant to spark imagination and reflection. It’s my way of raising awareness through my art. Since 2024, I have been painting using my feet.

My biggest dream – beyond travelling and earning a living doing work I love – is to be fully autonomous.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what sparked your interest in painting.

My name is Amélie Archer, and I have been an emerging professional artist with the Association professionnelle acadienne du Nouveau-Brunswick since 2024. I began creating art as a child through drawing, but it wasn’t until 2024, during a family vacation, that I discovered painting by chance.

Because of my disability, I paint with my feet. Very quickly, this practice became as much a passion as drawing. My interest in acrylic painting developed naturally thanks to my drawing background, and I soon figured out how to hold a paintbrush between my toes – something that brought me immediate satisfaction. What attracted me most to this medium was how easily colours can be blended compared to coloured pencils.

What inspires or excites you as an artist?

Nature and landscapes are my main sources of inspiration. I particularly enjoy creating worlds that feature trees. The passion I feel for my art comes from the freedom it gives me to express my imagination. Ideas for new pieces emerge naturally and seem endless.

What is your creative process – from idea to finished work?

My process begins with a main idea or specific elements that inspire me at a given moment. I then create a few sketches to release my creative thoughts, which often leads naturally to new secondary ideas. Once I’ve gathered everything, I sometimes search for reference images online to help refine certain aspects of my work. It’s important to note that all my works come entirely from my imagination.

Painting and drawing hold an essential place in my life – I’ve chosen to devote myself fully to an artistic career. My passion for these mediums, along with the flexibility this profession offers, aligns perfectly with my needs and abilities.

Have you developed adaptations, tools or techniques that help you create your work?

I adapt how I work depending on the tool I’m using, whether I work with my hands or with my feet.

I constantly experiment with new ways of drawing and painting – helping me improve and stay motivated.

My unique way of holding a pencil relies mainly on my wrist and thumb, while my feet stabilize the page. I often work on the floor to better control my movements, which adds energy to my drawings.

I use a graphite pencil for sketching, then a pen for details, and I add shadows and textures with a soft pencil – using my foot to spread the gradients.

For painting, I hold the brush with my toes, and I’ve set up an adapted studio that allows me to open paint pots and clean brushes without assistance – something I’m proud of.

Do you have a signature style or technique?

My artistic approach is rooted in sketching, and I sometimes use hatching when I want to add more detail to a piece.

As an artist with cerebral palsy, do you feel this influences the themes you explore?

My disability inspires my creations – I always include an empty wheelchair in my drawings to highlight that disabled people are an integral part of society. This symbol shows that we can push beyond our limits and reminds others that we share the same dreams and hopes as everyone else.

Describe a work or series you are particularly proud of.

I spent this year developing my first full collection as a full-time emerging artist. The series explores talent, dreams, and certain social realities connected to disability. It will be exhibited in three art galleries in Greater Moncton from December to June 2026. I’m proud to have illustrated these themes in an aesthetic way while conveying meaningful messages.

How has living and working in New Brunswick supported or inspired your journey?

I grew up in the Acadian Peninsula, and my inspirations are strongly tied to maritime landscapes and regional themes. Living in New Brunswick has allowed me to refine my artistic style by drawing on the local environment – and since moving to Moncton, I sometimes create urban illustrations as well.

How has your artistic journey evolved over time?

Over the years, my style and creative approach have evolved continually – driven by my desire to experiment with new techniques and improve the quality of my work. Art has always been central in my life; in high school, I began participating in live art events, which sparked public interest in my work. These amateur experiences helped strengthen my confidence and motivated me to continue progressing in drawing.

Is there something you wish curators, galleries or the public better understood about disabled artists?

I believe everyone has unique talents – whether we’re artists, curators or members of the public. Art plays an important role in inclusion and provides essential visibility for raising awareness in our cultural communities. It’s important that the community appreciates artists for their talent first, before considering their limitations.

I would also emphasize that creating a piece as a disabled artist can take much more time. A creation doesn’t happen in a single day. Sales can also be challenging, especially when preparing for an exhibition, which sometimes requires limiting one’s own sales – something that can be difficult.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I reorganized my workspace to ensure I can complete my tasks fully independently. I also took the initiative to apply to join the Acadian artists’ association myself – which led to very positive results.

What advice would you give emerging artists?

Above all, be confident and follow your own inspirations. Set motivating goals for your creative projects and explore different techniques.