Blog

I participated in Edmonton's 19th Annual Whyte Avenue Art Walk July 11 to 13 this year with the debut of my new series of paintings and drawings: ICONS. The collection was well-received and attendees were generous with their comments and feedback. The weather for this year's Art Walk was perfect with not even a hint of rain. It was a great festival atmosphere with live musical entertainment on Saturday and Sunday. My tent was set up right next to the gazebo/sound stage so I was able to enjoy the music while visiting with local residents and visitors from far and wide.

I look forward to this event each year - the celebration and sharing of ideas with other artists, mutual assistance with set-up and tear-down, and the opportunity to share my art with many different people. I will definitely be back again next year...

The Annual Craft & Art Sale hosted by the Northern Alberta Pioneer and Descendants Association was extended in 2013 to give art and craft lovers an extra day to enjoy the festive atmosphere and shop to their heart's content. I was there for my second year at the Old Timers' Cabin in the heart of Edmonton Centre on November 23rd and 24th. It was a warm and friendly environment in which to visit with friends old and new, display and sell my work, and connect with other artists and artisans. I was delighted to see some friends that I hadn't seen in years and truly appreciate their support and well wishes.

The Old Timers' Cabin is a beautiful, historic facility which holds many warm memories for myself and my family, especially my wife, whose childhood home was just 1 block north. Walking into this building is like stepping back in time. Having spent a bit more time there and talking to some of the Association members instilled in me a desire to get involved in keeping this amazing facility and organization alive and vibrant for future generations. So, I joined the Association, attended their Annual General Meeting, and became a Board Member. I'm looking forward to some new challenges and opportunities in 2014!

This year's "Art in Our Park" in Edmonton's Riverbend neighbourhood took place on September 21, 2013. Donna (my better half) and I were there with my art to join fellow artists, musicians, writers and performers in an afternoon of celebrating art and community. The sponsor of this event, the Riverbend Community League, is the heart of old Riverbend, representing the communities of Brander Gardens, Brookside, Ramsay Heights and Rhatigan Ridge.

As in previous years, Sue Pointe and her team of enthusiastic, helpful and friendly volunteers did an awesome job. As a matter of fact, I think this was the best ever. Thank you and the volunteers for a well organized memorable event Sue!

The weather was great. One would never know that old man winter is just around the corner. The music was excellent - Hot Cottage, Bella Rouge, Jenie Thai, Jeff Morris and the Edmonton Youth Pipe Band entertained everyone in this very festive atmosphere. A big thanks to old friends, relatives and new friends that took the time to stop by, say hello and enjoy my latest works. Also a big thank you to all that made purchases. I hope you will enjoy them in your homes as much as I enjoyed creating them.

This year was special for me personally because one piece that I sold was a very emotional experience. It made me realize that as artists, what we paint, say, sing or write may have an unexpected effect on others, evoking a wide range of emotions. I am happy to know that my work means something to someone somewhere.

I look forward to seeing everyone back next year for another great ART IN OUR PARK!

One of my favourite haunts throughout the year is Muttart Conservatory in Edmonton's river valley. A number of my works have been inspired by the natural specimen displays housed in the climate controlled pyramids. Two of my recent photographs, taken at the conservatory, are featured in the 2013 Muttart Conservatory Calendar. Now it's my extra-favourite haunt because they like my work too! Do pick up a calendar if you're at the Muttart. It is a fundraiser for the Muttart Conservatory as well.