ABOUT
Bio
Born and raised in Graz, Austria, Ursula Hirländer is an abstract realist artist now based in London, Ontario. Her work is a fusion of layered mixed media and oil paint, blending depth and texture to create striking compositions. While female portraits are at the heart of her artistic focus, she also explores themes of animals, botanicals, and non-objective abstracts.
Before fully immersing herself in fine art, Ursula spent a decade as the head of the millinery department at the United Theatres in Graz after completing a three-year apprenticeship in this intricate heritage craft. "Designing and making hats and masks for the performing arts was incredibly expansive and stimulating for me," she reflects.
Her artistic talent was recognized early—at just 18, she won first prize in a province-wide art competition, earning her the honor of exhibiting in the Vatican State and being featured in the Vatican newspaper.
After moving to Canada in 1986, Ursula dedicated herself to raising her two children. But art, as she puts it, "didn’t leave me a choice." She later pursued formal art education at the Milan Art Institute, reigniting her lifelong passion.
Today, Ursula spends most of her time painting in her loft studio, overlooking London’s charming Old South district. When not creating, she finds inspiration visiting her children and recharging on British Columbia’s west coast. Frequent trips back to Austria keep her connected to her identity. "It’s always good to practice my customs, connect with family and get my roots back in the ground, so to speak," she says with a smile.
Artist Statement
"My art is a pursuit of beauty, a delicate dance between the elements—texture, line, depth, and contrast—woven together in perfect harmony. These visual components are my passion, and I strive to express them with intention in every piece.
Through constant experimentation, my work has evolved into a fusion of abstract realism, where dynamic mark-making, spray paint, and even touches of gold leaf create a striking interplay between chaos and precision. I find intrigue in the tension between abstraction and realism—the way they coexist, challenge, and enhance one another.
Faces captivate me. Expressions tell silent stories, rich with emotion and meaning. The human face, the raw beauty of animals, the organic forms of botanicals—each holds a depth that speaks to our shared experiences. We are all unique, yet undeniably connected.
Art mirrors life. What we see externally often reflects what we feel within. My work invites the viewer to step closer, to connect, to pause—and perhaps, to see a part of themselves staring back.
