Testimonial

Rarely, do I hear directly from a client about my painting or the space it now calls home—but when I do, it absolutely fills my heart to the brim. Knowing that something I poured days of time, energy, and emotion into is now cherished, displayed, and alive in someone else’s space… It’s indescribable.

Fran,  I just wanted you to know your piece found a wonderful home in Southern Louisiana. I originally saw the other piece in the gallery as we pulled into the Fairmont. I went to the bar to grab a drink, and Unstoppable literally spoke to me. My mom is an artist, and it’s rare for me to find a piece that hits me so deeply. The memories attached to this are insurmountable. I am at a point in my life where I was able to take my 3 kids and grandkids to Banff for Christmas week. Very surreal time. The gallery was great to work with. Thanks for creating a piece that has so much meaning. 

Khalil was wonderful to work with. Very polite and represents the gallery well.  His follow-up when the painting shipped was very consistent by keeping me up to date. I’m kind of mad we left the day you did a live paint.

Thanks again!

Upcoming Artist In Residencies

Artist residencies give artists the opportunity to create work live—either within gallery spaces or in environments outside their usual studio settings.

I’m really happy to share that I have several artist residencies coming up. One of the things I love most about these experiences is the chance to meet people who wander by, pause for a moment, and start a conversation. Hearing about your lives, sharing the stories behind my work, and seeing the personal connections people make with the art means so much to me.

These moments are also a wonderful way to introduce new visitors to my work and to the galleries that so generously support it. I’m truly grateful for those spaces and for every conversation that happens within them. I hope to see some of you there.

Whistler
Mountain Galleries at The Fairmont
April 13 - 16

Banff
Mountain Galleries at The Fairmont
May 23 - 25

Salt Spring Island
Gallery 8 in Ganges
July 10 - 12

National Gallery Visit

Often, a restful break is all it takes to recharge and return to the studio with renewed energy. My challenge has never been a lack of inspiration, but an abundance of ideas and too little time to pursue them all. Simply observing nature or wandering through an art gallery is enough to spark fresh inspiration.

Singapore National Gallery, Impressionists Exhibition

Back to the studio, and INSPIRED!

Victoria Artist in Residency

I wrapped up 2025 with an incredible artist in residence in the beautiful Fairmont Empress, Victoria! The hotel was stunning, blending refined comfort with so much old-world charm. The staff at Mountain Galleries were absolutely amazing — their attention to detail truly made the experience unforgettable. The passersby who stopped to watch me paint were so friendly and genuinely engaged with my art, which made the whole experience even more special.

What a way to end the year with a bang!

Canada's Castle on the Coast AIR, Dec 20-22

This marks my first-ever artist residency at the Fairmont Empress Victoria with Mountain Galleries. Built in the early 1900s, the Fairmont Empress is an iconic landmark steeped in history.

The story of the Empress began when the Canadian Pacific Railway envisioned a series of grand château-style hotels across Canada, designed to accommodate their affluent steamship and rail travelers. The Empress Hotel was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981 and officially became a Fairmont property in 1999.

Following an extensive 12-year restoration, the Fairmont Empress has been thoughtfully updated while preserving its historic character, reaffirming its place as a premier destination for visitors from around the world.

I can’t think of a more festive way to celebrate the Christmas holidays than painting live in the upper lobby of the Fairmont Empress and chatting with the welcoming team at Mountain Galleries.

Trees Of Hope 2025

The Trees of Hope gallery is now live, and I’m thrilled to share that my painting, “Courage”, is among the works donated to support Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.
It’s truly inspiring to join fellow Mountain Galleries artists in contributing to a cause that brings comfort and care to so many families.
A heartfelt thank-you to Mountain Galleries and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler for hosting and sponsoring this beautiful initiative.

Online art auction ends Jan 31/26

http://32auctions.com/treesofhope2025

https://www.32auctions.com/organizations/28329/auctions/187216/auction_items/6645084

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.

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