Artists 2021 | Artists on the Avenue

David Todd

I’ve been a potter for more than 25 years and now, a new resident of Markerville, Alberta. Using a combination of electric, gas kilns, primitive firing and a wood kilns, the pottery produced has a unique style and range. One can never have too many handmade coffee mugs!

The evolution of my pottery has taken me through primitive firing techniques, the fire and dance of Raku and into the functionality of stoneware and porcelain. I have been learning about firing pottery in a wood kiln and have several firings of my pottery completed already. Soon there will be a functional line of pottery using this technique as well.

Inspired by nature and using clay formed by ancient rivers, I create handmade objects that will last for thousands of years.

Otter Pottery | 74 Johnson Avenue, Markerville, AB
403-638-5177 | otter@otterpottery.com

Annette Gray

Annette Gray is a Canadian born writer of fiction, nonfiction and poetry. She has numerous published short stories and newspaper articles to her credit as well as eight books: Butterflies In The Dark, Mountains and Moonbeams, Twisted Heart; Twin Hearts; Rearview Mirror; Journey of the Heart–a true story; Westport’s Tarnished Star–in defense of Johnny Behan; and Keep The Peace At All Cost.

“My father, a quiet, unassuming man, was a great mentor. He taught me to believe in myself. ‘You can do anything you set your mind to,’ he used to say. Under his guidance, I became a writer with hundreds of articles and short stories published in the USA and Canada.”

Graytwest Books by Annette Gray
janegray@telus.net

I'll have Frank Sigurdson's book, 
"Life on Soggy Bottom Ranch" – taken from Frank's articles in the Western Star – at my table, too.

— Annette

Jean Elliott

Jean Elliott is a glass artist, residing in Didsbury, Alberta.

She has many years making, crafting and experimenting in assorted media … favourite items are made from glass in her home studio: Mosaics, soldered and fused.

Featured items include garden and plant pot stakes, and framed sparkly glass wall art.

Glass Art by Jean | 403-335-4722
jmelliott@shaw.ca

West Country Writers’ Ink

Since its inception in 2000, the West Country Writers’ Ink has provided a forum for writers to share their work with other writers, discuss the experience of writing, and encourage each other to keep writing!

Some members had never written a ‘creative’ word before joining the group, while others were members of various other writing groups or had works accepted in various publications.

“More Selections from West Country Writers’ Ink” is a Centennial edition; both a commemoration of Alberta’s 100th Birthday (1905 – 2005) and a celebration of writing by the members of the West Country Writers’ Ink (2000 – 2005). Includes selections by Brian Bradley, Margaret Corbet, Myrtle Grovet, Helen Hoszouski, Victor Jensen, Betty Murphy, Ron Bradley, Orpha Donnelly, Maria Haubrich, Diamantina Hurren, Evelyn Lewis, and Vivia Oliver.

“Poems” is a collection that includes contributions from Ron Bradley, Brian Bradley, Vic Jensen, Betty Murphy, Myrtle Grovet, Helen Hoszouski, Orpha Donnelly, and Evelyn Lewis.

Marianne Harris

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Marianne Harris was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and developed her talent for art while still in elementary school. She started with a general exposure to various types of art media, but quickly focused her interests on painting–first oils, then watercolours, and now acrylics and mixed water-based media. Over the years, several artists have inspired and influenced her, and a somewhat looser style currently predominates her paintings.

Her works have sold across the country and abroad, being displayed in many art shows, with various art clubs and associations, as well as in private shows. Marianne’s works are available in several galleries as well. Commissioned pieces are done on request.

Marianne has expanded her art business, Paintwerx Studios, to include teaching children and adult workshops, for-fun “Away To Play” paint events, competitions, illustrations, and photography, which makes hers a continuously busy schedule!

Paintwerx Studios
paintwerx@shaw.ca

Raevyn Berg

I was born and raised in Alberta and have spent the majority of my life surrounded by the enriching beauty that is our natural backyard. I am compelled to venture to the Rocky Mountains whenever I need a spiritual recharge. I enjoy every moment being in the wilderness, especially when I get the opportunity to sit by a flowing body of water.

My desire to be immersed in nature has made me an avid wildlife enthusiast, particularly when it comes to understanding the impacts people have on wildlife populations. I’ve spent hours and hours mesmerized by the behaviors and antics of other living beings on our planet. Painting animals has been one of my most rewarding subjects, as I love showing the expression of their soul through my art, as well as reminding people that they too, exist.

I’ve been painting professionally for a few years now and always pursue greater excellence as my style emerges and my artistic journey continues.

raevynberg@gmail.com

Michele Brewster

I wanted to be an artist at a young age. Like many other artists, I want to create images that inspire emotional response.

My formal education was at the Alberta College of Art, but I feel that the experiences of life and an appreciation of nature have had the most influence on my work. Keeping standards high is what forces me to grow as an artist, something that is ongoing as I attempt to do more with my time and energy.

I find the most satisfaction from working with oil or gouache. I try to use design theory to create a strong composition. It becomes exciting to see it through to completion.

My work has found homes in Europe, the United States, as well as in Canadian corporate and private collections.