Always fascinated by art from a very early age, Joe Versikaitis continually discovered that the surroundings represented a creative form.
" My experience in art is a product of portrait drawing and paintings. Sometimes I will go back to working on a wildlife piece or something abstract just because change is good for you. "
Every item of Joe's work, inclusive of limited edition represents a very special story. Exemplary of this would be a painting featuring Wayne Gretzky, Jari Kurri, and Esa Tikkanen. This painting was signed by the Great One himself, a truly inspirational moment for the artist.
" It's always quite an experience to be commissioned to do a portrait painting. The excitement of the preliminary work to the satisfaction of the final paint stroke. But, that's not the end of the project, because now the presentation part has a big influence on the outcome. Plain and simple the viewer has to love it or I don't receive payment for the job."
The process of producing a hockey portrait is a source of tremendous excitement and stimulation for Joe, an avid fan of the sport. From taking photographs of the players in action and in stance accompanied by their facial expression and stick position right through to the finished work is a pleasurable suspense. A large part of this process is scrutinizing the subjects paying particular attention to their style and mannerisms. Consistent with all the artist's previous work, the background is semi-abstract with the interesting use of shapes and form to represent people but still including some content with shades of realism. In some cases fans are pointing and with mouth open can be imagined to shout the name of the subjects.

" To hear that a piece is a true resemblance gives testimony that I have succeeded in my work. "

From drawings to realistic paintings, Joe's goal is to show the viewer a special time in these players life.
" I think the real highlight of these experiences is the personal contact that I have with the players. From meeting them and their families to the signing of the limited edition prints by the players. Like the limited edition printing of “ Theo #14" - Theo Fleury and ” Kidder #37 “ Trevor Kidd, was one of my favourite highlights. The end product with signature of a superstar beside that of mine gave me enormous pride and motivation to proceed with the love of art and the pursuit of my dream."

For over 15 years, Joe Versikaitis has provided professional athletes and sports franchises with limited edition prints and original art work that are used to raise funds for their charities. The sales of Joe's paintings raise funds that go directly to help build stronger community programs throughout different parts of Canada and the U.S.A. Some of the groups that are in direct benefit from Joe Versikaitis art work are minor hockey, school sporting and nonprofits agencies. Not only has Joe's wonderful work encouraged fundraising for these groups but also the Western Hockey League Education Fund, the Calgary Flames Alumni Masters Golf Classic, Special Olympics, Kinsmen / Kinette Clubs, and Ducks Unlimited auction just to mention a few.