Artist Bio.
Tina Fridgen, MSc., is a multimedia Conservation Artist and Environmental Educator. As a trained scientist, Tina teaches Biology and Environmental Science at Trent University, and directs her current research, teaching, and multi-media artwork towards environmental education. Creating art pieces that accentuate natural light and colours, through painting, stained glass, and fabric art, Tina composes natural spaces where everyone can access the timeless wisdom and beauty of nature. Through interactive displays the artist challenges you to see and learn from nature itself, to feel a part of it, and to take steps to connect with and conserve our wild spaces today. Her artwork can inspire conservation and illustrate the importance of spending time in nature. Adding her forest moments to our home decor we can enhance the healing power of nature inside our living spaces.
New to the art world, Tina studied at the Peterborough Art School under local Artists and is a student in the Milan Art Institute Mastery Program. Tina is the co-ordinator of the Dour-Dummer Public Library Art Gallery where she will host her first installation during May and June 2025. She is an Associate Member of the Artists for Conservation Group and a member of Eastern Central Ontario Artist Association. As founder of Douro Art Studios, you can find Tina walking in the forest or painting at her home studio in Douro-Dummer, ON. She looks forward to sharing her inspirations through multi-media workshops and classes, and commission work.
Learn more on this page about
Education
Education
2024-current
Mastery Program,
Milan Art Institute
The Mastery program is a condensed 2 year program designed to help artists learn and apply traditional skills in drawing and oil painting, different uses and application of multimedia, exploring various processes to help each artist to find their voice and create their own portfolio, and ultimately to find success as a professional artist.
2003, 2024-2025
Peterborough Art School
Studied under local artists such as Richard Hayman (Portraiture), John Climenhage (Landscape oil), Gwen
2007-2011
PhD. Environment and Life Sciences Candidate (ABD),
Trent University
PhD studies focusing on the impacts of nano-particles on local amphibian species. Studies looked at particle behaviour in variable natural waters and bioaccumulation of particles in tadpole tissues. PhD studies were not completed due to change in focus to family and career to administration.
2004-2007
MSc. Watershed Sciences Program, Trent University
Toxicology based Masters degree focusing on the impacts of pesticides on local amphibian species. Studies found developmental impacts caused by environmentally relevant concentrations of common pesticides Roundup and Atrazine, including impacts on sexual development and metamorphosis.
Work Experience and volunteerism
2023 - current
Construction co-ordinator and Founder, Douro Art Studios
Founder of Douro Art Studios, will be a space for people to study and create art. Douro Art Studios is in progress of being restored from a heritage log cabin (1850's) and is planned to be completed Sept 2025. Until construction is complete the art studio and candle buisness is being conducted in our home.
2023 - current
Board Member and Art Gallery Co-ordinator, Douro-Dummer Public Library
Volunteer work on the Board of Governors to the local public library, a member of The Friends of the Library (FODDPL), and coordinator of the Library's Art Gallery Space. Recruits and promotes local artists, sharing their art and creativity with our multi-generational community.
2007 - current
Sessional Faculty, Biology Department and Trent School of the Environment, Trent University
Sessional Faculty responsible for the creation and delivery of various courses at Trent University, including BIOL 4550H One Health (2025), ERSC/EDUC/BIOL 2701H Environmental Education (2024), BIOL 3040H Histology (2007-2014, 2024) BIOL 3340H Herpetology (2015-2022), BIOL 3840H Animal Physiology II (2020), BIOL 4160H Immunology (2013), BIOL 3830H Animal Physiology I (2012)
