What a perfect January day for a photo shoot at the Vancouver Public Library! The air was crisp, the sun was shining, and I had the chance to pose with my art against the stunning Vancouver skyline. The awe-inspiring architecture of the VPL made the perfect backdrop.
Photo Credit: Trisha Erickson, www.trishericksonphotography.com
I am thrilled to share that I've been accepted into Artists for Conservation, the world’s leading artist group dedicated to supporting the environment and animals. Their mission is to promote wildlife and habitat conservation, as well as environmental education, through art that celebrates the beauty of nature. Ending 2024 on a high!
On October 16, Mountain Galleries artists painted live at the Whistler Fairmont Hotel for the 10th annual Trees of Hope fundraiser in support of Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. This annual event raises much-needed funds for families during this emotional time.
Raising over $173,713 cumulatively for this important and special cause, last year we raised the bar and were able to donate $35,713 from the silent art auction.
Online Auction for these paintings starts Nov. 25 - Jan. 31/25
https://www.32auctions.com/organizations/28329/auctions/172660/auction_items/5840635
Photo was taken at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice Vancouver
Progress shot at Whistler Fairmont Hotel, painting with my fellow artists
It’s that time of year! Time to celebrate the upcoming holidays at Gallery 8’s 16th Annual Christmas Exhibition of Small Works Opening Reception on Friday November 29th, start at 5:00pm to 8:00pm. I read the brief and have included some small sheep paintings!
http://gallery8saltspring.com
The Culture Crawl is an exciting four-day event featuring around 500 artists opening their east side studios to the public. It’s a fantastic opportunity for art enthusiasts to visit and engage with artists in their creative spaces.
This year, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be at 1000 Parker Street Studios along with 143 other artists, the heart of the crawl! My new studio is nearly three times the size of my previous one, and it’s definitely worth a visit. I’ll have plenty of new artwork on display, along with some intriguing small items. It’s always a joy to connect with both old friends and new faces, so come by and say hello!
So pleased to be back in the Rockies for yet another fabulous artist residency at the Fairmont Banff Springs art room for Mountain Galleries. I’ll be painting live and will be showcasing some new work.
Fairmont Banff Springs
Mountain Galleries
The venue was delightful, the sun was radiant, and the passersby were exceptionally friendly during my artist residency at Gallery 8 on Salt Spring Island. Residencies like this offer a unique opportunity to connect with people and discuss my art. It was the ideal setting for my three days of painting live.
August 30 - September 1, 2024
I’ve just moved into my new studio at Parker Street Studios, and I couldn’t be more thrilled! My new space is over twice the size of my old one, and I’m loving every inch of it. I’m joining a vibrant community of artists and artisans who take part in Vancouver’s largest annual art event. It feels like the perfect setting to take my work to the next level.
Join me in November as I open my studio to everyone during The Eastside Culture Crawl.
Photo credit: Tamara Chang
Appreciative of all the kind visitors who dropped by for a chat, and to the fabulous Mountain Galleries team who made running an art gallery all look so effortless when the opposite is true.
Whistler Mountain Galleries
Artists Residency in the gallery
Artists residencies are always a wonderful way to meet people, and share my art process. On Saturday July 27th, I’ll be painting live in Mountain Galleries at the Chateau Whistler Fairmont in the lower level of the hotel. Do drop by if you’re in the neighbourhood, and see what’s on my easel.
Swagging was spotted adorning the wall of Mountain Galleries in Jasper. Painting polar bears is among my favorite subjects to capture on canvas. The challenge lies in crafting a composition using various intensities and shades of white, perhaps with a subtle hint of additional colours to accentuate the piece.
Swagger, Acrylic on canvas, 40 x 60”
Within the sanctum of my art studio, I find solace sweeter than honey. The culmination of a painting, a symphony of colors and emotions, fills me with a euphoric sense of fulfillment.
The past month has been a whirlwind of art events! Here are a couple of snapshots from my time at the Banff Artist Residency and the lively opening reception at Gallery 8 on Salt Spring Island. Both experiences were marked by the presence of enthusiastic art lovers.
Gallery 8's 15th Anniversary Exhibition is a fantastic celebration of art on Salt Spring Island. Being included in such a revered gallery's group show is truly an honor. "Sushi Take Away" will be an exciting addition to the outstanding collection of Canadian art the gallery is known for.
Sushi Take Away, Acrylic on canvas, 30 x 40”
I wanted to share some exciting news with you – I have been offered my second artist residency in the breathtaking Banff! I am thrilled at the opportunity to immerse myself in the beauty of the Rockies once again.
This residency will allow me to create art in the enchanting setting of the castle in Banff, and I couldn't be more excited to paint amidst such inspiring surroundings. You'll be able to find me painting live in the Mountain Galleries Art Room, which is conveniently adjacent to the gallery. If you happen to be in the neighborhood, I would love for you to drop by for a chat and to see some of my new work!
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Mountain Galleries Art Room
March 29 - April 1
Fran Alexander's artistic approach is truly enchanting. She skillfully combines vibrant colours and intricate layering techniques to depict the captivating personalities of foxes. Through her paintings, she seeks to not only showcase the intelligence and cleverness of these timid animals but also their playful nature. By infusing her artwork with their inherent energy, Fran aims to create pieces that resonate deeply with viewers, capturing the essence of these fascinating creatures in a way that sparks playfulness, imagination and connection.
Fran's artwork continues to bring joy and wonder to all those who collect and follow her artistic journey.
Feb - Mar 2024
I’d forgotten how much I really enjoy painting polar bears. They afford me a different color palette that’s a bit subtler. Sara documents my art at Fidelis Prints, and she does an amazing job of capturing the different turns of color. These paintings are heading to Brights Gallery in Collingwood, Ontario.
The Culture Crawl is an annual 4 day art event, with some 500 artists participating by opening their east side studios to the public. Art enthusiasts have the rare opportunity to come visit and talk to artists in their art studios. It was a blast having visits from art, old and new friends. I had a few new paintings ready to show everyone.
Caping off a very busy weekend of art events with an art residency at the Chateau Whistler Fairmont - a highly enjoyable paint night at the Audain Museum and an artist residency at the hotel lobby. I enjoyed connecting with passerby and chatting about art.
One woman stopped to chat and we discovered that we were both working in Inuvik NWT at the same time! Now that’s a small world.
Unleashing their inner artists, and creating a bear portrait with me at the Audain Art Museum. It was an evening of painting, sipping Sauvignon Blanc wines, and noshing sumptuous appetizers provided but the Chateau Whistler Fairmont. The fun-filled evening was a huge success, and everyone left with their wonderful creations.
