Past Gallery Splash! Artists

DIANE ADOLPH
Brush Strokes and Beyond
January 7, 2024 - February 3, 2025
Artist Statement
Diane Adolph is an accomplished visual artist working from her home studio in Victoria, BC. She is recognized for her bold use of color and her unique composition and design ability which is depicted in her bright acrylic city scenes and still life paintings. Never without her camera, she is constantly capturing the landscape of this beautiful city and other traveled places, which one day will be joyfully rendered on canvas in her own unique style.
The inspiration and need to create is the driving force behind her works and often times she is drawn into more intuitive realms of abstract expression, which has also been favorably recognized.
Participation in a multitude of shows over the last 30 years, including the Sooke and Sidney Juried Fine Arts Shows, artist in residence programs, and representation in local galleries has kept Diane's work in the public eye over the last 30 years. Up until recently she ran her own local gallery/upcycled furniture store, Artful Living Studio, here in Esquimalt. In keeping with her belief in giving back to the community, Diane regularly donates pieces to local fundraisers and is deeply grateful for the unwavering support from her family and friends.
Her work is held in private collections locally and worldwide.
Please feel free to follow her on Face Book pages Diane Adolph Artist and Artful Living Studio for updates on shows and new works. Visit dianeadolph.com to view an extensive history of past works.
TO PURCHASE ART WORK, PLEASE CONTACT THE ARTIST DIRECTLY@ 250-217-2829

CHRISTINE ROULSTON
No Bad Dogs
December 3, 2024 - January 7, 2025
Artist Statement
Artist Statement: My photography celebrates our four-legged best friends and their special place in our hearts. A few years ago, my world was turned upside-down after we adopted a dog that developed some concerning behavior. After months of anguish over what to do with her I decided to commit to her training. Through working on Polly’s behavioral issues towards other dogs we’ve formed an unbreakable bond. Polly’s reactivity has put me in uncomfortable situations and forced me to be brave. That bravery has extended into other avenues, truly enhancing all parts of my life. My photo project, No Bad Dogs features dogs with reactivity and owners that have committed to making sure they have the best lives possible
TO COMMISSION THE ARTIST, PLEASE CONTACT [email protected]
No Bad Dogs
December 3, 2024 - January 7, 2025
Artist Statement
Artist Statement: My photography celebrates our four-legged best friends and their special place in our hearts. A few years ago, my world was turned upside-down after we adopted a dog that developed some concerning behavior. After months of anguish over what to do with her I decided to commit to her training. Through working on Polly’s behavioral issues towards other dogs we’ve formed an unbreakable bond. Polly’s reactivity has put me in uncomfortable situations and forced me to be brave. That bravery has extended into other avenues, truly enhancing all parts of my life. My photo project, No Bad Dogs features dogs with reactivity and owners that have committed to making sure they have the best lives possible
TO COMMISSION THE ARTIST, PLEASE CONTACT [email protected]
Anne Bowen
FLORA & FAUNA: Nature's Inspirations November 5 - December 3, 2024 Artist Statement Spontaneity, as well as careful and considered risk, creates the dynamic and contemporary qualities in my paintings. Both watercolour effects and textural possibilities allow for unlimited explorations of interpretation. Starting with a classical under painting and building with many transparent layers, I use a vibrant palette, strong compositions, and subtle value shifts to create a compelling painting. I am honoured to have some of my award-winning work held in collections throughout North America, Asia, and Europe. [email protected], www.annebowen.ca |
Biography
Born in England, l grew up in B.C., with the mountains, ocean, and forests nurturing a curiosity and love for the natural world. I have travelled extensively; many memories, impressions, and images inspire my work. I paint for the sheer joy of transporting myself into a landscape, observing the complex patterns of nature or the meditative qualities of still life. I have always loved creating with form and color and have worked for many years with stained glass, landscape design, and more recently with paint and canvas. My painting style is constantly evolving; whether painting representatively or interpretatively, I am constantly striving for a meaningful connection with my subject matter and through my work share my interpretation and impressions with others. |

Jim Wispinski
A Retrospective of 50 Art Years
October 1st - November 5th, 2024
A Retrospective of 50 Art Years
October 1st - November 5th, 2024

Portrait of an Artist by H.R.M.
I drew my first stick man when I was just 3.
So I said to myself, it’s an artist I’ll be.
But as a teenager, I realized a glitch.
If I was an artist, I’d never be rich!
My dreams of doing art seemed out of my reach.
What could I do? Well…I guess I could teach.
After 5 years of uni and 5 teaching school,
I said to myself, JIM, you’re a fool!!!
Where are your dreams? – Let’s get them back.
I think I was having a big ART ATTACK!
So 4 years at art college, learning tips and techniques
On how to paint pictures and make them unique!
Advertising art was my job for 5 hectic years!
But my love of fine art made me change my career!
Realistic watercolours had an appeal!
So I painted in detail like photos…so real.
I captured my world through an artist’s keen eye.
White puffy clouds, blue watercolour sky.
Then oils and acrylics and impressionism.
My paintings looser, a conscious decision.
I’ve etched and I’ve sketched in pastels, pencils and ink,
On wood blocks and silk screens, every medium…I think.
So what is my art? What is it you’ll see?
The answer is simple, it’s VARIETY!!!
It is what it is, I just have to be me.
Artistically yours, JIM M WISPINSKI.
I drew my first stick man when I was just 3.
So I said to myself, it’s an artist I’ll be.
But as a teenager, I realized a glitch.
If I was an artist, I’d never be rich!
My dreams of doing art seemed out of my reach.
What could I do? Well…I guess I could teach.
After 5 years of uni and 5 teaching school,
I said to myself, JIM, you’re a fool!!!
Where are your dreams? – Let’s get them back.
I think I was having a big ART ATTACK!
So 4 years at art college, learning tips and techniques
On how to paint pictures and make them unique!
Advertising art was my job for 5 hectic years!
But my love of fine art made me change my career!
Realistic watercolours had an appeal!
So I painted in detail like photos…so real.
I captured my world through an artist’s keen eye.
White puffy clouds, blue watercolour sky.
Then oils and acrylics and impressionism.
My paintings looser, a conscious decision.
I’ve etched and I’ve sketched in pastels, pencils and ink,
On wood blocks and silk screens, every medium…I think.
So what is my art? What is it you’ll see?
The answer is simple, it’s VARIETY!!!
It is what it is, I just have to be me.
Artistically yours, JIM M WISPINSKI.
Creative Collaborators
September 3rd - October 1st, 2024 A Collective of Women Artists lead by Shelley Hordiyuk Creative Collaborators formed in January, 2022. We are a community of artists who care about learning, sharing exhibition and educational opportunities, and supporting each other in our artistic journeys. Most of us have formal art education, some have been professional artists, and we have all exhibited and sold our works in tours, juried shows, and through galleries. Our interest is to participate as a group in exhibitions where we can share our ideas and interact with the public as we continue to learn. The Creative Collaborators are: Shelley Hordiyuk Arden Rose Rose Cowles Rita Daly Katharine Geddes Kathryn Delany Megan Hill Adrienne Hughes Lois Dimoff Judy Taylor Debbie Hargreaves |
Tanya Bub
July 2nd, 2024 - September 3rd, 2024
Dan Nordin
June 4th - July 2nd, 2024
Kris Friesen, SOLO SHOW
May 7th, 2024 - June 4th, 2024
Kris Friesen, an Esquimalt, BC artist, paints acrylic artworks that evoke the untamed dreams of nature. Since 1995, Kris has been captivating audiences with his large-scale murals and commissions using his passion for visual storytelling. Inspired by a transformative artist residency in Sachaqa Centro de Arte, Peru in 2014, Kris embarked on a journey of abstract realism, where he finds inspiration in the raw wonder of nature.
Kris starts with an action, painting using large brush sweeps and spontaneously thrown paint, turning physical his feelings and subconscious through expression before adding a subject. This creative process is a dynamic interplay between instinctual brushwork and deliberate subject placement, resulting in captivating scenes that invite viewers to immerse themselves in the perspective of wildlife. Kris’ art portrays the essence of nature, capturing unique narratives in intimate encounters with the natural world. He melds abstract spontaneity with realistic wildlife and landscapes, inviting connection and contemplation outside of ourselves. krisfriesen.com |
JUDY TAYLOR, BROOD
April 2nd, 2024 - May 7th, 2024
As an artist who lives in Newfoundland a good part of the year, I focus on
process to create an abstract sensation that reflects my impression of the subject. The art on display includes, acrylic, oil, cold wax and oil, mixed media in subjects and imagery I have explored. The original Hen was the result of a failed bowl of fruit painting coupled with the following riddle: If a Hen and a Half, Laid an Egg and a Half, In a Day and a Half, How many EGGS would she lay in a week? The Granddaughter always had one answer and each Brood member contains the answer. [email protected] https://www.designsbyjudytaylor.com/ |
Dahlila Charlie
Beyond the Surface: Uncovering the Inner Beauty of Coast Salish Art
February 6th - March 5th, 2024

Dahlila Charlie is a Coast Salish visual artist from Beecher Bay, First Nation, living in Victoria, BC. Through her stunning acrylic painting and murals, Dahlila employs Coast Salish formline
and realism to tell the stories of her Nation. Dahlila has studied under the mentorship of more senior Indigenous artists and has developed her own personal style to both bring to life culturalteachings and claim space in contemporary spaces. In her art practice, Dahlila invites audiencesto celebrate the beauty of the Coast Salish peoples and their connection to the land and ocean.
As Dahlila’s career continues to blossom, she looks forward to sharing her skills with other
artists and focusing full-time on making artwork and engaging in local community art projects.
https://www.instagram.com/dahlila.isabelle/
https://dahlilacharlie.wixsite.com/coast-salish-artwork
[email protected]
and realism to tell the stories of her Nation. Dahlila has studied under the mentorship of more senior Indigenous artists and has developed her own personal style to both bring to life culturalteachings and claim space in contemporary spaces. In her art practice, Dahlila invites audiencesto celebrate the beauty of the Coast Salish peoples and their connection to the land and ocean.
As Dahlila’s career continues to blossom, she looks forward to sharing her skills with other
artists and focusing full-time on making artwork and engaging in local community art projects.
https://www.instagram.com/dahlila.isabelle/
https://dahlilacharlie.wixsite.com/coast-salish-artwork
[email protected]
Corrie Peters, Jessie Paterson, & Jean Anne Wightman
presenting "HOLD"
January 2 – February 6, 2024
"Hold" is the work of three artists who connected over textiles and learning at Vancouver Island School of Art. It asks questions about what we hold and how we hold. This exhibition uses the softness of textiles and the visibility of the artist’s hand in fibre art techniques to think about how to hold with care.
Corrie Peters - (she/her) is an artist in conversation with social practice, fibre art and installation, among other media. Her artwork is building relationships that teach her how to listen to and learn from those often silenced through current systems of power and she holds so much gratitude for those who have taught her about empathy, activism, change and care. The publicly displayed pieces are the documentation of Corrie’s artwork – translating what she has learnt to a larger audience. These are often layered projects that involve time, both as a medium, and as a component of viewing. She finds herself returning to the craft-based materials and techniques of the matriarchs of her family in her work. Corrie lives with her extended family on the unceded land of the lək̓ʷəŋən-speaking peoples. Her work has been supported by grants from The Canada Council for the Arts, Social Science and Humanities Research, as well as through residencies at the Santa Fe Art Institute and Salt Spring Arts Council. She also won the inaugural Salt Spring National Art Prize.
https://corriepeters.ca/
@corrielpeters
[email protected]
Jean Anne Wightman - What to write on a heart?
My Auntie Dot showed me how to knit when I was ten. When I was twenty, I wanted Aran pattern knit mittens, intricately patterned with knitted cables and bobbles, a design too elaborate to make for myself. I asked, would she make these mittens to wear with my new coat?
That day, knit mittens were my heart’s desire.
Today, what is my heart's desire? Joy, courage, understanding, healing, curiosity, compassion, peace, gratitude, clarity, kindness, safety, equality!
Jessie Paterson - is a multidisciplinary artist of German, Scottish, and Welsh descent living on unceded lək̓ʷəŋən Territory. She was raised on beautiful Treaty 7 near Mohkinstsis and is thankful to now live among Garry oak trees and to swim in the Salish Sea. Jessie completed a BA at UVic before pursuing an arts diploma from VISA (The Vancouver Island School of Art). Her art practice includes fibre arts, painting, printmaking, bookmaking, voicework, and performance. Jessie’s work often uses storytelling to connect people to the local environment or to their own inner landscapes. With warmth and humour she touches on darker notes of grief: for to love is to grieve, especially in a climate of loss. Holding the earth and fellow creatures with love – love by bell hooks’ definition that is – love as action, love as practice, love as care. How can we love more? How can we live gently and encounter the world playfully? How can we encounter our grief? These are questions she hopes are answered in some way by the art she makes.
@jess.station.art
[email protected]
Corrie Peters - (she/her) is an artist in conversation with social practice, fibre art and installation, among other media. Her artwork is building relationships that teach her how to listen to and learn from those often silenced through current systems of power and she holds so much gratitude for those who have taught her about empathy, activism, change and care. The publicly displayed pieces are the documentation of Corrie’s artwork – translating what she has learnt to a larger audience. These are often layered projects that involve time, both as a medium, and as a component of viewing. She finds herself returning to the craft-based materials and techniques of the matriarchs of her family in her work. Corrie lives with her extended family on the unceded land of the lək̓ʷəŋən-speaking peoples. Her work has been supported by grants from The Canada Council for the Arts, Social Science and Humanities Research, as well as through residencies at the Santa Fe Art Institute and Salt Spring Arts Council. She also won the inaugural Salt Spring National Art Prize.
https://corriepeters.ca/
@corrielpeters
[email protected]
Jean Anne Wightman - What to write on a heart?
My Auntie Dot showed me how to knit when I was ten. When I was twenty, I wanted Aran pattern knit mittens, intricately patterned with knitted cables and bobbles, a design too elaborate to make for myself. I asked, would she make these mittens to wear with my new coat?
That day, knit mittens were my heart’s desire.
Today, what is my heart's desire? Joy, courage, understanding, healing, curiosity, compassion, peace, gratitude, clarity, kindness, safety, equality!
Jessie Paterson - is a multidisciplinary artist of German, Scottish, and Welsh descent living on unceded lək̓ʷəŋən Territory. She was raised on beautiful Treaty 7 near Mohkinstsis and is thankful to now live among Garry oak trees and to swim in the Salish Sea. Jessie completed a BA at UVic before pursuing an arts diploma from VISA (The Vancouver Island School of Art). Her art practice includes fibre arts, painting, printmaking, bookmaking, voicework, and performance. Jessie’s work often uses storytelling to connect people to the local environment or to their own inner landscapes. With warmth and humour she touches on darker notes of grief: for to love is to grieve, especially in a climate of loss. Holding the earth and fellow creatures with love – love by bell hooks’ definition that is – love as action, love as practice, love as care. How can we love more? How can we live gently and encounter the world playfully? How can we encounter our grief? These are questions she hopes are answered in some way by the art she makes.
@jess.station.art
[email protected]
Rose Cowles, Shelley Hordiyuk, Karen Muntean, Arden Rose, Shan Thomas and Jim Wispinski
Festive Showcase
December 5th 2023 - January 2nd, 2024
DK Lombardi & Lynda Lombardi
Creation in Harmony
November 7th - December 5th, 2023

DK Lombardi: Ever since childhood, I could hear the universe calling me, daring me to uncover her secrets. My work is the result of experiments in transmutation, discovery, and transformation. Every piece is personal at a fundamental, psychological, and spiritual level. Subject matter, theme and materials vary, and are less important to me than the window into self-knowledge that each work allows.
In the creative process I may act like a crystalline prism, refracting the light of creation into a frozen moment into which viewers may enter and expand with their emotional experiences and intellectual interpretations. I orient towards creativity, joy, and optimism, and it is my intent to inspire these in others.
Lynda Lombardi: Healing from grief and loss is at the heart of my body of work. We all experience loss; it is an inevitable part of life. Inspired by the tragic loss of family members, principally my son, it has been important to work through the losses and find strength to carry on and live with intent. Creating and sharing my art has been an important part of my healing process and has allowed me to find joy again.
I choose to work with all natural materials, and I include treasures found on healing walks in nature. I endeavour to communicate deep emotion with the symbolism of water, shades of blue and green, and the depth created by multiple layers of molten beeswax medium. Getting lost in my work during the creative process is healing, I invite the viewer to experience getting lost in my work by touching it, being open to the sensations and creating an opportunity for their own healing.
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso
http://www.lyndalombardiartist.com/
@dklombardiart
In the creative process I may act like a crystalline prism, refracting the light of creation into a frozen moment into which viewers may enter and expand with their emotional experiences and intellectual interpretations. I orient towards creativity, joy, and optimism, and it is my intent to inspire these in others.
Lynda Lombardi: Healing from grief and loss is at the heart of my body of work. We all experience loss; it is an inevitable part of life. Inspired by the tragic loss of family members, principally my son, it has been important to work through the losses and find strength to carry on and live with intent. Creating and sharing my art has been an important part of my healing process and has allowed me to find joy again.
I choose to work with all natural materials, and I include treasures found on healing walks in nature. I endeavour to communicate deep emotion with the symbolism of water, shades of blue and green, and the depth created by multiple layers of molten beeswax medium. Getting lost in my work during the creative process is healing, I invite the viewer to experience getting lost in my work by touching it, being open to the sensations and creating an opportunity for their own healing.
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso
http://www.lyndalombardiartist.com/
@dklombardiart
MARCELA STRASDAS
Open Air
October 3rd - November 7th, 2023

Marcela Strasdas is an Argentinian-Canadian painter who loves painting landscapes, still-lifes, and florals mostly in acrylics and oils. She is greatly inspired by her love of travelling and gardening which she translates into colourful, vibrant paintings depicting the beauty found in everyday life.
Nearly 20 years ago, during one of the busiest times of her life, Marcela found herself enamoured with the world of art. She joined a local art club where she was exposed to a variety of artistic media and styles of work. During those first years, the time that Marcela devoted to her painting became sacred, a time that she could dedicate to herself in the misdt of a life with a young family.
Marcela has learned to go beyond words, combining the passion and excitement she feels in looking at the world around her, and transforming it through colour and shape into a much more eloquent form. In her work, Marcela gets to instill her experiences: the smells, sounds, shapes, colours, darks, and lights of a moment, invoking memories and freezing them in time. She is constantly inspired by the simple wonders in nature around her, preferring to always focus on the good, the positive, and the beautiful in the world.
With a strong belief that there is no end to learning and growing as an artist, Marcela continues to study and learn as much as possible in her day-to-day life. She has taken numerous workshops and classes that have shaped her into the artist she is today.
https://www.marcelastrasdas.com/
Nearly 20 years ago, during one of the busiest times of her life, Marcela found herself enamoured with the world of art. She joined a local art club where she was exposed to a variety of artistic media and styles of work. During those first years, the time that Marcela devoted to her painting became sacred, a time that she could dedicate to herself in the misdt of a life with a young family.
Marcela has learned to go beyond words, combining the passion and excitement she feels in looking at the world around her, and transforming it through colour and shape into a much more eloquent form. In her work, Marcela gets to instill her experiences: the smells, sounds, shapes, colours, darks, and lights of a moment, invoking memories and freezing them in time. She is constantly inspired by the simple wonders in nature around her, preferring to always focus on the good, the positive, and the beautiful in the world.
With a strong belief that there is no end to learning and growing as an artist, Marcela continues to study and learn as much as possible in her day-to-day life. She has taken numerous workshops and classes that have shaped her into the artist she is today.
https://www.marcelastrasdas.com/
DEBORAH CZERNECKY
September 5th - October 3, 2023

Deborah Czernecky is an established Canadian Artist who is an Elected Member of the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA) and an Active Member of the Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA). Having traveled widely from western to eastern Canada and across the awe-inspiring Canadian North, Deborah calls Canada her “Big Backyard”. She has also painted in the USA and further abroad in Europe and Central America. The varied scenery Deborah has encountered has heightened her sense of formation, colours and patterns.
http://www.spinningdogstudio.ca
http://www.spinningdogstudio.ca
JANET MOORE
Island Life
July 4 – Sept 5, 2023

Sooke resident and emerging artist Janet Moore’s interests include hiking, biking, and snowboarding, and are often the subject of her colourful paintings. Not always in the studio, Janet can be found painting en plein air, creating a loose impression of the landscape. She also enjoys drawing the human figure, striving to capture the feeling of the poses.
Janet was born and raised in Ontario and has always had an interest in art. She graduated from George Brown College in Toronto with a diploma in the two-year Graphic Design Program with a strong interest in the fine art classes such as life drawing. She also enjoyed typography and so went on to complete two more years before graduating from the Graphic Sign Design Program
and receiving a second diploma. Mastering the art of hand lettering was important as she owned and operated a sign company in Ontario. For the last 25 years Janet, along with her sister Nancy (also an artist), owns and operates a successful graphics company in Ontario.
https://janetmooreart.ca/
Janet was born and raised in Ontario and has always had an interest in art. She graduated from George Brown College in Toronto with a diploma in the two-year Graphic Design Program with a strong interest in the fine art classes such as life drawing. She also enjoyed typography and so went on to complete two more years before graduating from the Graphic Sign Design Program
and receiving a second diploma. Mastering the art of hand lettering was important as she owned and operated a sign company in Ontario. For the last 25 years Janet, along with her sister Nancy (also an artist), owns and operates a successful graphics company in Ontario.
https://janetmooreart.ca/
SHELLEY DAVIES
Sacred Cedars
JUNE 6 – JULY 4, 2023

"I am Shelley Davies of T’Sou-ke Nation (Sooke). This exhibit is called Sacred Cedars. The works you see here today all have some relation to the cedar tree; there may be one in the forefront or background of the painting, or the frame is made from cedar, or it could just be the tones used in the painting -- all have some sort of reference to the sacred cedar. My ancestors have used this tree since time immemorial. We have used it to make our longhouses, our canoes, our clothes, our hats. We make baskets, headpieces, bentwood boxes, and it is even said that our ancestors were laid to rest in the tops of the trees, so they were closer to our creator. This tree is sacred to us all. I grew up on the west coast of this island near French beach, and as a child playing amongst these trees it gave me a sense of safety. I never knew why. Now I have come to know the First Nations side of my family, and learned just how sacred these trees are to my peoples. I am a self-taught artist and started painting on eggs about twelve years ago. That slowly progressed to large canvasses and then murals which you can find in Sooke and Saanich Peninsula Hospitals ECU1&2. I work with the airbrush first and then on to acrylics. Sometimes I will use both techniques in my pieces. I started painting as a relaxation strategy from working in long term care for 25 years, but now I find that it’s more like an addiction. I have sold at markets, Christmas shows, one piece in a juried art show, and a couple of stores. Now, online and commissioned works fill my time. This newer colourful style was inspired by my daughter who is also an illustrator and artist. She was the first to show me this style when we worked on a mural together. Since that time, I feel I have developed my own version of this style, bringing in bold colours and whimsical lines. Thank you for taking the time to honour the “Sacred Cedar.”"
Artist Bio:
Born in Victoria, Shelley grew up in the small village of Shirley on the rugged southwest coast of Vancouver Island. Raised by her hardworking single mom and beloved grandmother, Shelley was always exposed to nature and wildlife from the beaches where she lived, to the backwoods camping and fishing trips with her mom and grandma.
Shelley has always been immersed in and inspired by nature. She has devoted over 30 years to the health care of our elderly in the province of BC, as well as raising two wonderful, successful children. A devoted wife of 35 years, Shelley shares her love of art and nature with her husband and children.
Shelley has pursued several different art media over the years but really came to love painting, specifically in acrylic, using vibrant colour palettes in her work. Shelley is a self-taught artist who is constantly challenging her boundaries and comfort zone. Wildlife is Shelley's first love, for subject matter, but she has challenged those confines in murals and portraits she was commissioned to do in Saanich Peninsula Hospital extended care facility.
Shelley is Coast Salish, living on the T'sou-ke Nation reserve, and is starting to explore her cultural art forms. Learning more about the art culture of the T'sou-ke Nation is inspiring on another level for Shelley. She also has a First Nations motif mural on her nation's Tim Hortons Center.
Shelley has shown her work in many different shows and is always showing at local art markets. She has also worked on local art projects for her community. Shelley is usually working on her commission pieces of one kind or another, always challenging herself while constantly building up her own original works. You can find her fabulous originals or order a custom artwork at daviesartcollective.ca
Artist Bio:
Born in Victoria, Shelley grew up in the small village of Shirley on the rugged southwest coast of Vancouver Island. Raised by her hardworking single mom and beloved grandmother, Shelley was always exposed to nature and wildlife from the beaches where she lived, to the backwoods camping and fishing trips with her mom and grandma.
Shelley has always been immersed in and inspired by nature. She has devoted over 30 years to the health care of our elderly in the province of BC, as well as raising two wonderful, successful children. A devoted wife of 35 years, Shelley shares her love of art and nature with her husband and children.
Shelley has pursued several different art media over the years but really came to love painting, specifically in acrylic, using vibrant colour palettes in her work. Shelley is a self-taught artist who is constantly challenging her boundaries and comfort zone. Wildlife is Shelley's first love, for subject matter, but she has challenged those confines in murals and portraits she was commissioned to do in Saanich Peninsula Hospital extended care facility.
Shelley is Coast Salish, living on the T'sou-ke Nation reserve, and is starting to explore her cultural art forms. Learning more about the art culture of the T'sou-ke Nation is inspiring on another level for Shelley. She also has a First Nations motif mural on her nation's Tim Hortons Center.
Shelley has shown her work in many different shows and is always showing at local art markets. She has also worked on local art projects for her community. Shelley is usually working on her commission pieces of one kind or another, always challenging herself while constantly building up her own original works. You can find her fabulous originals or order a custom artwork at daviesartcollective.ca
Jim Wispinski ֍ Marcia Semenoff ֍ Meneka Repka
April 4 - May 2, 2023
Epoch: The Art of Illustration
In this show, three local illustrators re-define and blur the boundaries between fine art and illustration. The term epoch illuminates a moment in time where seemingly incongruous ideas become consolidated. Here, illustration moves beyond its stereotypical cliches of commercialization and replication into the realm of the conceptual and the aesthetic. Illustration is any image that accompanies and enhances a text, clarifying and communicating ideas visually; this means that any piece of art can also function as an illustration. This collaboration emphasizes the capacity for illustrative art to draw a viewer into the world of narrative.The works convey the specificity of artistic voice, while straddling multiple forms of media, style, and experimentation.
The exhibition features three distinct illustrative voices. Jim Wispinski has been “artisting” for 62 years. He works comfortably in 20 different mediums, has won numerous awards, and has distributed in galleries throughout Canada and worldwide. Marcia Semenoff, an oil painter and collagist, has a long history as a successful gallery artist in Victoria, but her work has also been used as illustrations. Meneka Repka is a children’s illustrator who is interested in drawing anthropomorphized animals and nature; clients include OwlKids, Highlights Magazine, and Food Empowerment Project.
The artists in this show are members of the Island Illustrators Society (IIS), an organization of local, professional illustrators. IIS was established in 1986 by six illustrators with a broad mandate to educate, while fostering a greater interest in the art of illustration.
April 4 - May 2, 2023
Epoch: The Art of Illustration
In this show, three local illustrators re-define and blur the boundaries between fine art and illustration. The term epoch illuminates a moment in time where seemingly incongruous ideas become consolidated. Here, illustration moves beyond its stereotypical cliches of commercialization and replication into the realm of the conceptual and the aesthetic. Illustration is any image that accompanies and enhances a text, clarifying and communicating ideas visually; this means that any piece of art can also function as an illustration. This collaboration emphasizes the capacity for illustrative art to draw a viewer into the world of narrative.The works convey the specificity of artistic voice, while straddling multiple forms of media, style, and experimentation.
The exhibition features three distinct illustrative voices. Jim Wispinski has been “artisting” for 62 years. He works comfortably in 20 different mediums, has won numerous awards, and has distributed in galleries throughout Canada and worldwide. Marcia Semenoff, an oil painter and collagist, has a long history as a successful gallery artist in Victoria, but her work has also been used as illustrations. Meneka Repka is a children’s illustrator who is interested in drawing anthropomorphized animals and nature; clients include OwlKids, Highlights Magazine, and Food Empowerment Project.
The artists in this show are members of the Island Illustrators Society (IIS), an organization of local, professional illustrators. IIS was established in 1986 by six illustrators with a broad mandate to educate, while fostering a greater interest in the art of illustration.

SUSAN KRUZEL
January 3, 2023 - February 6, 2023
[email protected]
Esquimalt, BC resident Susan Kruzel was born and raised in the previous Communist Regime of Hungary. Upon immigrating to Canada as a teenager, she worked in Theatre Costume Design at Sudbury Theatre Centre in Ontario before pursuing a career in the military for 28 years on land and sea. Susan is a graduate of Victoria College of Art (VCA). Her art includes a wide spectrum of subject matter and media. She explores landscapes, nature, light studies, movement of water, spectacular sunrises and sunsets of Victoria, the surrounding vistas of mountains, and visits to various coastlines where she finds her inspirations. Her work is still evolving.
January 3, 2023 - February 6, 2023
[email protected]
Esquimalt, BC resident Susan Kruzel was born and raised in the previous Communist Regime of Hungary. Upon immigrating to Canada as a teenager, she worked in Theatre Costume Design at Sudbury Theatre Centre in Ontario before pursuing a career in the military for 28 years on land and sea. Susan is a graduate of Victoria College of Art (VCA). Her art includes a wide spectrum of subject matter and media. She explores landscapes, nature, light studies, movement of water, spectacular sunrises and sunsets of Victoria, the surrounding vistas of mountains, and visits to various coastlines where she finds her inspirations. Her work is still evolving.
SHAN THOMAS
December 6 - January 3, 2023
[email protected]
587.224.5607
Shan is a former teacher and chartered accountant who has always had a passion for painting. In 2010 she turned to art full-time, starting with a BFA at Emily Carr University of Art + Design. She can be found painting either en plein air or in her studio in Victoria, BC, accompanied by her faithful Sheltie, Rowan (who likes to be included in every photo).
She is a former member of the Southern Alberta Art Alliance (SAAA), and currently paints with “The Alfrescoes,” a local group of plein air painters. Drawing on her teaching background, Shan has hosted paint-night sessions, and instructed workshops for residents in long term care.
December 6 - January 3, 2023
[email protected]
587.224.5607
Shan is a former teacher and chartered accountant who has always had a passion for painting. In 2010 she turned to art full-time, starting with a BFA at Emily Carr University of Art + Design. She can be found painting either en plein air or in her studio in Victoria, BC, accompanied by her faithful Sheltie, Rowan (who likes to be included in every photo).
She is a former member of the Southern Alberta Art Alliance (SAAA), and currently paints with “The Alfrescoes,” a local group of plein air painters. Drawing on her teaching background, Shan has hosted paint-night sessions, and instructed workshops for residents in long term care.

ROSE COWLES
November 6 - December 6, 2022
[email protected]
250.858.8932
"As a practiced illustrator I tell stories, knowingly or unknowingly. As for this show here at Gallery Splash you will see a smidgen of what I practice as an interdisciplinary artist. Some days I am an illustrator, other days I am a painter and often I am simply an observer who wanders the streets and the internet for inspiration. Some days I need to give my head a break and create landscapes in abstract form by mainly focusing on texture and color which in turn provides me with the meditative rest that I need. Other days I'm up for more of a challenge and so I tackle more complex subject matter that demands a larger chunk of time and effort. What I love to do (which is contrary to my nature in all other aspects of my life) is to do what I am told, or shall I say what is asked of me."
Rose Cowles is a Governor-General Award Nominated Artist. She graduated Sheridan College for Book Illustration/Design in 1990 and has gone on to win many awards over 25 years, for both book illustration and graphic design. You can find a list of her achievements in the Canadian Who's Who published by Grey House Publishing Canada. She illustrates, designs and paints full time out of her rooftop studio in beautiful Esquimalt, BC.
Commissioned art is her specialty and she will gladly create in multi mediums to suit the needs of her clients and help to adorn their walls, which in turn inspires her to do something she would not normally conceive of herself.
November 6 - December 6, 2022
[email protected]
250.858.8932
"As a practiced illustrator I tell stories, knowingly or unknowingly. As for this show here at Gallery Splash you will see a smidgen of what I practice as an interdisciplinary artist. Some days I am an illustrator, other days I am a painter and often I am simply an observer who wanders the streets and the internet for inspiration. Some days I need to give my head a break and create landscapes in abstract form by mainly focusing on texture and color which in turn provides me with the meditative rest that I need. Other days I'm up for more of a challenge and so I tackle more complex subject matter that demands a larger chunk of time and effort. What I love to do (which is contrary to my nature in all other aspects of my life) is to do what I am told, or shall I say what is asked of me."
Rose Cowles is a Governor-General Award Nominated Artist. She graduated Sheridan College for Book Illustration/Design in 1990 and has gone on to win many awards over 25 years, for both book illustration and graphic design. You can find a list of her achievements in the Canadian Who's Who published by Grey House Publishing Canada. She illustrates, designs and paints full time out of her rooftop studio in beautiful Esquimalt, BC.
Commissioned art is her specialty and she will gladly create in multi mediums to suit the needs of her clients and help to adorn their walls, which in turn inspires her to do something she would not normally conceive of herself.