Myth, folklore, and storytelling shape Frank Forrestall’s artistic paintings. The youngest of the Tom Forrestall artist family, Frank is a new member of the Peggy’s Cove Area Art Society. He will be participating in this year’s Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts Studio Tour for the first time, allowing visitors to see his works and learn more about his creative process.
Heavily influenced by his father Tom Forrestall’s art, Frank transitioned into painting as a full-time profession about ten years ago. Although Frank had an opportunity to work in film in Montreal, he remained close to home, near his father, to paint. He and Tom enjoyed daily tea and critique, involving discussion of their current works. While their subject matter was vastly different, many viewers see his father’s influence in his works. Tom, who was incredibly encouraging to any artist, embraced Frank’s creative and unique paintings.
Viewers of his work often acknowledge the fine detail and robust imagination. Drawing inspiration from mythology, folklore, mysticism, and symbolic traditions of art history, Frank has developed a distinctive visual language, blending technical craftsmanship with layered symbolic imagery.
Through automatism and automatic drawing, he allows forms to rise unbidden from his subconscious. His initial sketches, impressions, and lived experiences evolve into refined watercolour and acrylic paintings.
Frank’s work has been exhibited at around 10 shows so far in 2026. His work has been displayed across the province, from Halifax and Annapolis Valley this spring, to Tatamagouche this summer.
Since his father’s passing, Frank is gradually shifting to life in Upper Tantallon, where he has been impressed by the local artist community’s welcoming and supportive nature. He enjoys the local area’s natural beauty, the inspiring connection with nature, and sketching at Labour Day Café.
You can view more of his work at his website: www.frankforrestall.com. He is number 37 in the Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts Studio Tour, July 15th to 17th, located in Tantallon Woods Subdivision.
Story By Deanna Foster