Andrew Downward

Get to know Divine Design painting expert Andrew Downward.

Andrew Downward, Divine Design painting expert

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When and where were you born?

I was born in 1967, in Toronto.

How long have you been painting?

I?ve been painting off and on since I was 18 years old.

How did you get started painting?

I started painting my house with my dad when I was a teenager. I moved on to (working for) relatives, and next thing you know I was in the painting business!

You worked your way through university by painting...where'd you go to university?

Glendon College, York University and the University of Toronto

What did you study?

Canadian Studies and Education

How long have you been teaching?

Three years.

What's more challenging, teaching fifth graders or painting? Can you share some unique challenges of each?

Teaching is a challenging yet rewarding career. It challenges your mind, creativity and sometimes your spirit. You never see the "end" result, whereas in painting you receive reasonably instant reward for your efforts. Painting combines creative challenge with physical challenge.

Describe what it's like working on Divine Design.

It's great, like a little family.

What's Candice like?

Candice is down to earth. She's creative, that's obvious, but she's also very focused and hard-working.

What's your most important tool as a painter?

My hands, does that count? A 5-in-1 painter's tool is also a must-have.

What's been the most difficult painting job you've tackled on the show?

The Divine Design Christmas Special, but you can be the judge when you see the show.

Can you share some tips for amateur painters taking on home projects?

I'm trying to add a little tip in each show, so stay tuned!

You've said your favorite journey is "the journey of fatherhood." Tell us a little about your family.

I am the father of two beautiful boys, aged 6 and 3. They are the warmth in my heart. I just celebrated my 10th wedding anniversary, and our love is deep and rich.

If you weren't working on Divine Design, you'd be doing...what?

Spending as much time with my family as possible.

Where do you call home now?

The Big Smoke—Toronto.