Celia Lees | Collaboration with Johnnie Walker
Johnnie Walker Blue | The WeHo Edition
In late 2025, Toronto-based abstract painter, Celia Lees, had the unique opportunity to collaborate with Johnnie Walker for the release of their Couture Blend.
At a Los Angeles pop-up event, the artist participated in a live painting experience, creating a unique piece inspired by the sensory notes of the Blue Label. This piece was then later installed at the Miami and New York City events of this multi-city activation.
Furthermore, Lees was asked to create a limited-edition of 150 hand painted and signed bottles which were gifted to guests at all three locations, in addition to being part of the Johnnie Walker permanent collection.
Celia Lees (b. 1996) is an abstract painter living and working in Toronto. Her artistic journey began as a search for self-expression and a deeper connection with life and herself.
Lees' abstract works seek to capture the ephemeral – creating while living in the moment, channeling inner emotions, and conveying that which cannot be articulated. The artist utilizes an abstract approach, allowing her to communicate through physical gestures and instinctual mark-making. She works with large applications of paint and deftly balanced compositions while embracing the chaos throughout the process.
The artist's work is held in private collections across Canada, the United States, as well as Europe and Asia. Her paintings have also been placed in commercial spaces such as 200 Amsterdam in New York, Aria in Las Vegas, and The Laurel in West Palm Beach.
Celia Lees has been represented by Bau-Xi Gallery since 2025.
