Events

Alain Bédard’s passion for painting started in 1976 and led him to pursue art studies at Cégep de Ste-Foy in Quebec. He then traveled to New York to continue his studies and gain experience in illustration. Never one to rest, Alain’s desire to push his own boundaries led him to further his education at Laval University where he completed his Baccalaureate in 1984. While attending Laval University he had the privilege of studying under the renowned Canadian painter Claude A. Simard, who became a great friend and mentor. Having worked as a professional painter for many years now Alain has developed a distinct style based on his travels, love of architecture and brilliant use of colour.

Steve R. Coffey has always thought of the prairies as a place loaded with visual intricacies. Throughout his travels, he has found that there is simply no light like that of the Canadian prairies. Further describing his relationship with the light of the Canadian prairies, Steve states: “I feel that a human being is both dwarfed and defined within this light. I use human elements as both a romantic and metaphorical signal. Not for a sense of aloneness, but rather as an individual existing under the vast sky. My paintings are mental snapshots. I’ll see something that strikes me, file it away in my head and draw on it as I return to my studio. These files I call ‘Memory Polaroids.'” - Steve R. Coffey

At once whimsical and serene, Dana Irving’s paintings create a sense of wonder and quiet in the viewer, inviting them to guess at the stories that unfold in her unique landscapes. Her work has been compared to both Emily Carr and Dr. Seuss, and both hold true in her incredibly creative approach to painting the Canadian landscape. Dana Irving was born in Prince George, BC. She studied at Douglas College, Victoria College of Art, Vancouver Academy of Art, Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design and Kwantlen College. Influenced by the painters of the 1930s and ’40s as well as Canada’s own Group of Seven, Dana has travelled extensively across British Columbia and Alberta, as well as forays into Ontario and Quebec, finding endless inspiration in the Canadian landscape. Seduced by the drama of the ever-changing natural beauty around her, her paintings focus on movement and light with a touch of whimsy.

Paul Jorgensen’s playful landscapes feature bright colours, intricate patterns and joyful vignettes. His unique approach to painting is enhanced by skewed perspectives and a prolific use of intertwined shapes and forms, revealed as lush gardens, secret paths and distant locations. Paul’s narrative style further encourages the viewer to immerse themselves in his paintings and dream of travels and adventures to come. "In the time of Covid-19 I have had more time in the studio to reflect and expand on my process. I have been excited to experiment with different paint applications and palettes and am revisiting the places I hope to see again, one day soon." -Paul Jorgensen

"Mountains have continuously stirred profound feelings in us, and we are moved to create beautiful buildings that strive to belong in this natural world of unparalleled beauty? This limited collection of five new acrylic on canvas paintings has a great deal of sentimental meaning for Fraser Brinsmead. When the viewer observes the properties of Jasper Park Lodge, Post Hotel, and Chateau Lake Louise, the original architects had to consider the immense scale of their surroundings. There is a clear definition between the architecture of humankind and the architecture of God. Fraser Brinsmead has gone to great lengths to express his admiration of these two architects.

I have a deep connection with this compilation of my work. I am rarely awed by my work, but I held my breath till the very end. It somehow is imbued with hope. Maybe because it was painted during the pandemic, and it felt as though one could get through it all.

Join us in celebrating west coast painters! This curated collection of artwork features artists that capture the unique beauty and spirit of the West Coast, including Peter Wyse, Ken Kirkby, Dana Irving, Greta Guzek, Blu Smith, Paul Jorgensen, and many more talented artists.

The work of Claudette Castonguay celebrates an enthusiastic love of life. From an afternoon cocktail party to relaxing with friends on the beach, Claudette’s paintings pull you in and convey a feeling of being light as air and unapologetically happy. Claudette’s elegant, painterly style easily conveys the delight she feels while painting and communicates this to the viewer through wonderfully saturated colours and delicate brushwork. Warm, charming, and cheerful, her paintings entice the viewer to share in a wonderful world of her imagining where painted gardens offer beautiful fragrant bouquets to decorate tables and send to loved ones.