It was such a pleasure meeting everyone who stopped by to chat with me in the Art Room in Banff. A huge thank you to the dedicated Mountain Galleries team in Jasper and Banff for their hard work and kindness, which made my Artist Residency an unforgettable experience!
Sunny Days in Jasper
My three full art residency days in the Jasper Park Lodge were productive ones. The high lights were connecting with the delightful passerby and their enthusiastic art loving kids. Next stop Banff!
Jasper Artist Residency
I can hardly contain my excitement and looking forward to another artist residency in Jasper. This will be the first time since the hotel closed due to the wildfires that I’ll be painting in the Jasper Park Lodge. Find me painting in the lobby.
“Mountain Galleries is excited to welcome Fran Alexander as our Artist in Residence at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge from March 22-24, 2025. Inspired by her experience teaching Inuit children in Inuvik and studying under renowned Canadian artist Gordon Smith, Fran’s vibrant and expressive paintings capture the essence of Canada’s wildlife and wilderness. Known for her abstract style and bold mark-making, Fran’s work has earned admiration worldwide. Visit the Hotel Lobby to meet Fran, watch her creative process, and discover the perfect piece of original art for your home! “
Artist in Residence Schedule:
March 22: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
March 23: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
March 24: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
Banff Artist Residency
I am over the moon in anticipation of yet another memorable artist residency in Banff! The gorgeous Fairmont Banff Springs is certainly an unique castle nestled in the spectacular mountains. Find me painting in the Art Room adjacent to Mountain Galleries.
“Mountain Galleries is thrilled to welcome Fran Alexander as our Artist in Residence at Fairmont Banff Springs from March 26-30, 2025. Inspired by her experience teaching Inuit children in Inuvik and studying under renowned Canadian artist Gordon Smith, Fran’s vibrant, expressive paintings capture the spirit of Canada’s wildlife and wilderness. Known for her bold mark-making and abstract style, Fran’s work resonates with viewers worldwide. Stop by the Art Room to meet Fran, watch her creative process, and find the perfect original piece of art for your collection!”
Artist in Residence Schedule:
March 26: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
March 27: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
March 28: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
March 29: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
March 30: 10:00 AM- 5:00 P.M.
Heartfelt Thank You's!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who placed bids on my painting and all the other incredible pieces. Together, we're making a real difference, bringing comfort to the children and families at Canuck Place Children's Hospice. Your generosity truly speaks volumes.
A special thanks goes to the awesome Mountain Galleries’ team and the amazing Fairmont Chateau Whistler for hosting us.
Photo Shoot at the VPL
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
Artists for Conservation
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!
Trees Of Hope for Canuck Place Children's Hospice
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
Consider making an art bid!
Photo was taken at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice Vancouver
Progress shot at Whistler Fairmont Hotel, painting with my fellow artists
Gallery 8 Christmas Exhibition of Small Works
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
Eastside Culture Crawl at 1000 Parker Street
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!
Banff Artist Residency with Mountain Galleries
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
Artist Residency at Gallery 8
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
New Art Studio in Parker Street Studio
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
Summer Art Residency
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
Whistler Artist Residency
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.
Polar Bear Sighting in Jasper
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”
Long Studio Days
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.
More Photos!
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 - 15th Anniversary Exhibition
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”
Banff Artist Residency in Easter
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
