About the Artist
Hello, and welcome. My name is Diana Klimowicz, and I am a Canadian Christian artist creating sacred graphite portraits of the saints.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art and History from the University of Toronto. Although my career eventually led me into nutrition, art has always remained a place of peace, reflection, and creativity throughout my life.
In 2023, my life changed unexpectedly when I suffered a spinal cord stroke that left me with lasting weakness in both arms and paralysis in my dominant right hand. After months of rehabilitation, I had to relearn many everyday tasks, including how to draw. Rather than giving up art, I began teaching myself to draw with my left hand. What started as part of my recovery slowly became something much deeper—a way to rediscover both my creativity and my faith.
Nearly three years later, every drawing is still created with my left hand. Each drawing represents not only hours of work, but perseverance, healing, and God’s grace through suffering.
Why the Saints?
I was raised Greek Orthodox and later married my husband in the Catholic Church. Our wedding beautifully incorporated both the Orthodox and Catholic marriage rites, reflecting something that has always been close to my heart: the unity we share in Christ.
During my hospitalization, I felt drawn to learn more about the lives of the saints. One of the first saints I chose to draw was St. Gemma Galgani. Her story deeply resonated with me. She experienced paralysis caused by spinal tuberculosis and endured immense physical suffering throughout her short life, yet remained unwavering in her faith and complete trust in God.
As I read the lives of the saints, I realized that the world’s heroes are often very different from God’s. The saints were ordinary people who allowed God to work through their weakness. Their lives reminded me that God’s strength is revealed most beautifully through human weakness.
While I still struggle at times to understand my own suffering, the saints continually remind me that holiness is possible even in pain, limitation, and uncertainty. Their witness inspires every piece I create.
Why Pencil Drawing?
Before my injury, I loved painting. Today, because of the limited dexterity in my left hand, working with brushes and multiple colours is difficult. Graphite drawing allows me to simplify the process and focus entirely on form, light, and expression.
I especially love creating dramatic contrasts between light and shadow. My hope is that each portrait conveys a quiet intimacy—as though the saint is alone with Christ in silent prayer and divine contemplation. Rather than simply creating a likeness, I hope each drawing invites the viewer into that same moment of reflection.
Looking Ahead
This is only the beginning.
Because of my physical limitations, each artwork takes considerable time to complete, and for that reason I am not currently accepting commissions.
Instead, I will be offering original drawings and professionally produced fine art prints for purchase in a variety of sizes.
Thank you for supporting this small business as it continues to grow. Every purchase, every kind word, and every prayer is deeply appreciated.
Stay Connected
If my story or artwork has encouraged you, I’d love for you to join me on this journey.
Follow me on social media @dianakdraws, where I share my artwork, drawing process, and the stories behind the saints who continue to inspire me.
Thank you for being here, and may God bless you.