The Wasaga Beach Public Library Gallery is proud to present Joe Shocrylas: The Art of Classic Hockey, a nostalgic and dynamic exhibition celebrating hockey’s golden era. The exhibit is now on display and runs through the end of February.

A self-taught acrylic artist and retired dentist, Joe Shocrylas is best known for his vivid paintings inspired by the early days of professional hockey—particularly the Original Six era. Drawing from historic black-and-white photographs, Shocrylas reimagines iconic moments on the ice using bold colour palettes, dramatic lighting, and expressive brushwork that bring movement and emotion back into each frozen frame.

Much of Joe’s work explores contrast and tension: finesse versus brute force, calm ice surfaces disrupted by sudden stops and battles for the puck, and the glow of vintage arenas under early lighting conditions. Softer, fluid brushstrokes capture undisturbed ice, while thicker, textured strokes cut through moments of action—mirroring the physical and emotional intensity of the game itself.

Joe’s inspiration traces back to his childhood, watching Hockey Night in Canada on a black-and-white television and attending a Toronto Maple Leafs game at Maple Leaf Gardens. The brilliance of the ice, the colours of the uniforms, and the iconic imagery lining the arena left a lasting impression—one that continues to shape his artistic practice today.

Over time, retirement and the launch of his Instagram presence helped catalyze an outpouring of creativity. His body of work now includes more than 130 pieces and has been featured by CTV, municipal galleries, professional publications, and cultural institutions across Ontario.

This exhibition invites viewers—especially those with a love for hockey history—to experience a sense of nostalgia, emotion, and renewed appreciation for the artistry and athleticism of the game.

Meet the Artist

Visitors are also invited to attend a Meet the Artist event with Joe Shocrylas:

Saturday, January 10
1:00 – 2:00 PM
Wasaga Beach Public Library

Joe will be on site to share insights into his creative process and discuss the stories behind his work.
Registration required. Adult program. A Wasaga Beach Public Library card is required to register.

Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan, an art enthusiast, or simply curious, The Art of Classic Hockey offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the game through a powerful artistic lens.