A quick island-hopper flight to Salt Spring Island, and a stay of less than 24 hours turned out to be perfect for the Gallery 8’s opening reception—great weather, a smooth trip, and a lively reception.
Nov 28, 2025
More Fairmont Tremblant and Mountain Galleries
Another glimpse into my summer Montreal artist residency — painting live in the Fairmont Tremblant lobby and sharing conversations about art with curious passersby.
Sushi hangs in the lobby of the Fairmont Tremblant.
Banff Artists Residency with Mountain Galleries
Sept 29 - Oct 1, 2025
I had an incredible experience painting in the Art Room at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel — affectionately known as "the Castle in the Rockies." During my time there, I learned about the rich history of artist residencies at the hotel.
William Cornelius Van Horne, the visionary General Manager of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), envisioned the Banff Springs Hotel as a destination to attract tourists to the Canadian West and promote rail travel. To help realize this vision, he invited artists to capture the breathtaking landscape on canvas, using their work to inspire and entice visitors to the region.
Today, Mountain Galleries continues this remarkable legacy by offering artist residencies at the hotel, supporting contemporary artists in the same spirit of creativity and exploration. I'd like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire dedicated team at Mountain Galleries—especially AJ, Khalil, and Dom—for their unwavering support of my art during this Artist in Residence. Your professionalism knows no bounds, and I’m truly grateful.
A sincere thank you as well to the Fairmont Banff for providing such a stunning and inspiring setting in which to create. It’s been an honour to paint in this remarkable location and to carry forward the legacy of Van Horne. @mountaingalleries@fairmontbanff
Mt Tremblant Artist Residency
Fairmont Tremblant put together this beautiful reel capturing my creative process during my artist residency with Mountain Galleries. I’m so grateful for the incredibly warm and welcoming staff who went above and beyond to make me feel at home. Their kindness, support, and genuine interest in my work made this experience not only productive but truly memorable. From the stunning surroundings to the thoughtful accommodations, every part of my stay contributed to an inspiring and unforgettable residency.
Meet And Greet at Brights Gallery
Thank you to the kind folks at Brights Gallery for taking the time to host a Meet and Greet. My work was prominently displayed for all incoming art lovers.
Banff Artist Residency
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.
