We all like to believe we live well-ordered lives, that we’re in control of our own destiny, and yet how often is it that chance, coincidence or pure accident sends our lives off in a completely new and unexpected direction? That was certainly the case with Canadian artist Wildago (or Wilda Goyetche, to give her full name) who may never have become an artist at all had it not been for one such twist of fate.

“It’s funny how things work out sometimes,” explains Wildago. “I had always loved sketching and drawing but never believed I would become a professional artist.” An unforeseen change in circumstances and a move to the UK meant that for the first time in her life she could devote herself fully to art. Even at this stage it wasn’t much more than a hobby, and the artist had no firm plans about selling any of her rapidly building body of work. So it’s no surprise to learn that Wildago’s first public exhibition also came about more through accident than design. “I finally ran out of space at home for my paintings and that’s when I threw my doors open to friends and neighbours so people could see what I had been up to.”

Clearly they liked what they saw, because commissions started coming in and things simply took off from there. Now paintings by Wildago can be found adorning the walls of homes and businesses all over the world.

The artist is pleasantly surprised by the favourable reactions to her artwork. “I am deeply attached to the characters I’ve created, but it still gives me a great deal of pleasure every time I come across someone who feels the same way. Pearl, Edmund and the other personalities are meant to be likeable–they’re easy-going, fun and even a bit quirky at times. But most of all they don’t take themselves too seriously and I think that’s what really endears them to people.”

Whenever she is asked if Pearl and Edmund will ever meet, Wildago always smiles. “I think we can safely leave that one to chance..."