Bill Rademaker started creating art when he was in high school, and he's had the itch ever since.

Though he may not be sure about the exact moment he realized his God-given artistic talents, Rademaker has always acknowledged that his creations are more than just art.

"I believe God gave me talent for art, and I like to use that for Him," Rademaker explained.

The Winnipeg artist has worked with multiple mediums over the years, including wood panels, carving, oils and acrylics, and enjoys giving his work a three-dimensional quality. The inspiration for his pieces, however, may surprise you.

"The idea behind what I do comes from underwater life," shared Rademaker, who has travelled all over the world scuba diving since 2004. Earlier this year, he enjoyed exploring the Red Sea in Egypt.

"I love sharks and seeing underwater creatures that most people will never see," said Rademaker. "I'm amazed at how complicated these animals are."

It's no wonder that Rademaker's portfolio exudes the magnificence found laying underneath the water's surface. His love of marine life, however, is not the only thing influencing his pieces.

"Anytime I put out any material, I try to mention my faith, because that's why I'm doing it [in the first place], to bring glory to Him."

Rademaker is also a co-founder of Grant Memorial Church's Artist Collective, a program that seeks to provide a place of community for artists of faith.

As an artist and musician, Rademaker offered some tips to help anyone who might be struggling to pinpoint their own areas of talent. "First of all, if you love it, and you love spending time doing it... that's a pretty good indicator," he stated, going on to say that if you've committed your idea to the Lord and asked him to provide opportunities for Him to show you His plans, that level of commitment will not go unacknowledged.

You can catch Rademaker and his art featured alongside a number of other local artists at the Assiniboia Downs Art Expo this weekend, Friday, October 27 to Sunday, October 29.