Bio: Robyn Gram-Barclay has been enjoying teaching art for over two decades to both children and adults, and is an award-winning artist, author and illustrator. She attained her Specialized Honours BFA from York University (2000), Montessori Teaching Credentials (2005), her Bachelor of Education in 2008, and is a Certified Therapeutic Arts Life Coach (2021). Ms. Gram-Barclay is currently the Canadian Crayola Creativity Ambassador for the National Art Education Association (USA). She was commissioned to create the outdoor installation for the Reading Garden at the Southfields Village Branch of the CPL, funded through the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative Grant. Ms. Gram-Barclay has also been awarded as one of the top 100 International artists for 2025 in the Great Book of Art Makers through the Arts to Hearts Project.

Ms. Gram-Barclay’s My Good Friend, Ted! picture book series about Ted, the beautiful Blue Whale who is Red, has won four awards for excellence in children’s literature. Robyn is also a sponsor and partner for the world-renowned organization SAVE the WHALES to which a portion of her book proceeds are donated.

Artwork Inspiration: Nature, marine life, her family

Mediums: Acrylic, watercolour, and mixed media