Canada’s ‘Grammers: Erin Rothstein

As part of Canada’s influencer community, we’re proud to introduce you to our fellow ‘grammers across the country! Watch our website for more Q&As with follow-worthy influencers like Erin Rothstein of Toronto! —Vita Daily

Hi Erin! Tell us a little bit about you and what you do!?

I am a full-time artist, born in Montreal and currently living in Toronto. I also have three little ones (twin four-year-old boys and a one-year-old girl). I create hyperreal paintings centred around food and fashion, and I sell my artwork through galleries and trade shows internationally. I work from home, so my kids are often involved in the process (which is great, but also sometimes very messy, if you could picture three kids under the age of five armed with paintbrushes)!

How do you use your platform to impact those who follow you?

I paint objects that are relatable on a global scale—they trigger nostalgia, excitement, happiness and comfort. My website and social media accounts allow my artwork to speak for itself, and I often post photos of my kids and workspace to offer some insight into who I am and why I do what I do. My hope is that people will connect with my artwork, and with the lifestyle that surrounds my practice. I am constantly taking chances in the pursuit of my dreams, and I hope I can inspire others to do the same.

What’s your personal style/beauty mantra?

My personal style is simple and fun. I enjoy a put-together yet unfancy sort of look. Where beauty is concerned, I’m all about health and wellness. I try to listen to my body as much as possible—to rest when I’m tired, to breathe when I’m anxious, to meditate and drink water and eat well. It’s funny that these things sound so simple, and yet they can be so easy to forget. I try to practise mindfulness as much as possible, and I just do my best. I feel the most beautiful when I’m taking good care of myself and paying close attention to how my body feels.

You’re an artist! Tell us more about your work (and your fave things to paint!):

I’ve been painting food for the past 10 years, and I just recently started painting fashion as well! I like paintings things that trigger a strong reaction in people—things that people are obsessed with, like Air Jordan sneakers on the fashion side, or extra-crispy bacon on the food side. I like painting things that are accessible, relatable, and true to who we are.

And a mom! Tell us about family, what it means to you.

My family is everything. My boys are best friends, and they are the sweetest, most calm, gentle and curious little guys. My daughter is a force of nature, and lights up any room she walks into. My husband Sam is also self-employed, so we have lots of control over how we spend our time. Being working parents (and parents in general) is complicated and exhausting, as much as it is amazing and enlightening. It’s hard to put into words how motherhood has transformed me, but I can say without a doubt that it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

Spring is in the air! What’s your favourite thing about this season?

Spring is my favourite season. My birthday is in May, which I use as an excuse to see all my friends and family. I love the sunshine, I love spring fashion, and I love looking forward to summer. I always say that April is the Friday of winter.

Follow Erin on her blog and Instagram. Want to be featured? Send us an email!