A professional painter who owns a working studio and art gallery near the Mission Hill winery in West Kelowna, is now showcasing her landscapes to the world via what is thought to be the only worldwide directory of artists.
Louise Lambert, from Toronto, studied as a portrait artist at the Coppini Academy of Fine Arts in Texas and completed baccalaureate and post graduate work at Canadian and US universities, refining her skills studying in Washington DC, Ottawa and Toronto.
Since becoming a professional 14 years ago, Louise has completed more than 95 commissioned works, of portraits and landscapes -some as large as six by eight feet- for homeowners, wineries and commercial businesses.
She is known for her renditions of vineyards, both throughout North America and abroad.
“I am inspired by the sunlight as it falls onto the vineyards, lakes and sky, with the juxtaposition of colours and shadows.
“My work is reminiscent of the Old World paintings of Tuscany, Italy and France but with a contemporary West Coast twist. I think wine and art are the most natural companions and I am very fortunate to have my studio in this part of the world,” said Lambert.
Recognized as one of West Kelowna’s Leaders Among Us, Lambert has exhibited her work in more than 68 shows throughout North America. She also teaches art in a range of public and private galleries. “I work for myself and I am my toughest critic. My work appeals to anyone who seeks contemporary art and wine enthusiasts are drawn to the work because of the subject matter, “ she said.
Before working as a professional artist, Lambert was a health care marketing consultant and executive in both the US and Canada. “I always saw it as a means to support my art lifestyle. It is a demanding passion and as you get better, you also become more critical of yourself.”
Lambert explained this is why being able to show her work on Artists’ Info is crucial to her influence as a painter in a notoriously competitive world.
“Artists’ Info approached me; I researched the site and creators thoroughly and was more than impressed. They are rapid in their response and have the artist’s main interest in their focus,” she said.
Artists’ Info is an online directory which currently features around 500 artists from more than 30 countries. It enables artists of all kinds, from painters to jewellers, photographers and ceramics-makers, to showcase up to 12 pieces of work, with links to their websites and contact details. The artists can receive commissions from individuals and businesses—with no commission charged—in a simple and cost effective way.
Jean Dennis, who founded the UK-based site with Melanie Burnell, said of Lambert’s work: “As I look at Louise’s paintings I immediately feel the warmth of the sun and imagine myself strolling through those wineries, an absolute pleasure. Also, many of the works brilliantly combine Louise’s talent as a portrait painter as well as a landscape artist. Her nickname, Lady of Light for her ability to capture, in her works, the spectacular lights and shadows of surrounding mountains, skies and vineyards is most apt. I look forward to sharing a glass or two with her very soon!”
And, Lambert concluded: “Yes I do like a glass of wine but obviously not while I’m painting!”
