To promote artists and photographers in Chilliwack and Hope, Chilliwack-Hope MP Mark Strahl is showcasing local art and photographs in his parliamentary office.
Last month’s featured artist is a painter from Hope, Anne O’Brien. O’Brien is originally from England, and has lived most of her adult life in Canada with her husband.
O’Brien and her husband have lived in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and the Yukon.
They have four adult children and two granddaughters.
O’Brien is now retired, her career was teaching French and English in England and Canada, as well as teaching English in China.
O’Brien and her husband have been involved with the arts for many years, especially in the Yukon, where they were very involved with the local theatre scene.
O’Brien has always been an avid reader and very fond of writing.
“I started painting because, for Christmas one year, my husband gave me some watercolours and brushes and related equipment,” said O’Brien. “I like to paint because it requires a great deal of focus and concentration, and so, because it excludes other concerns, I find it very relaxing and therapeutic”.
O’Brien has a painting featured in the Art Gallery Wall in Strahl’s Ottawa office.
The painting entitled Tulips is a watercolour on acid-free paper.
There is a great deal of movement and definition in the flowers, reminiscent of a warm spring day.
“It is distinct honour to showcase the October edition of local art in my Parliamentary office. Anne O’Brien is a very talented painter who captures the essence of spring in her work” said Strahl. “I celebrate O’Brien’s accomplishments in creating this vibrant work of art. I am proud to promote artwork from Chilliwack and Hope so that our entire country knows about the stunning talent in our communities.”
Fellow Parliamentarians, as well as visitors from across Canada and around the world, will have an opportunity to take in the work of O’Brien.
Strahl is encouraging local artists and photographers from across the riding to submit their work, along with their bio and contact information.
In accordance with the artist’s wishes, works will be exhibited in the gallery for several weeks before being returned to the artist, donated to local charities, or presented as gifts to visiting delegations. A new artist is featured every month.
Those interested in submitting their artwork for Strahl’s Art Gallery Wall are asked to contact his office for more information.