Painting is not a relaxing pastime.
It takes focus, determination, patience, and a willingness to learn new skills.
But that’s part of what makes art worth doing, two local painters agree.
Rose Marie Gordon and Elisabeth Scotson are sharing the spotlight as featured artists at the Agassiz Monday Painters 53rd Annual Art Show, taking place this Saturday.
Gordon has been painting with the group for about 11 years, almost as long as she’s lived in the area. She noticed an ad in this newspaper and, having been interested in art since she was a child, decide to give it a try.
At the time, the Monday Painters was being run by Diane Mackenzie. She began with clouds, landscapes and seascapes, and eventually started painted things like flowers and animals, as she picked up skills from the regular guest teachers, including Joey Ellis. She even dabbled in calligraphy.
While she doesn’t do a lot of painting now, she has sold a number of works over the years.
“It’s not relaxing and restful,” Gordon said. “You have to be strong and focused. It just has to be something you want to do.”
Scotson agrees, artwork is a serious business and requires dedication.
“That’s the thing about painting, is you have to stay focused,” she said.
Her home in Harrison is filled with pieces from artists she admires.
The two women are friends, and have plenty in common — the both have roots overseas, and they each love to paint. But they admit their upbringing was starkly different.
While Gordon’s father was a commercial artist, growing up in Scotland she felt that her creativity was discouraged.
For Scotson, her childhood in England included the arts. She also has experience as a journalist, taking a solo journey around the world to report on it.
Both women love Canada, and all that is has offered them in their time here.
Like many Fraser Valley artists, from all backgrounds, Mt. Cheam is a major inspiration for Scotson.
“The land tells its own story,” she said. “It really does. It’s fascinating.”
To view Scotson and Gordon’s chosen works, along with pieces from several other members of the Agassiz Monday Painters, visit the Agassiz United Church Hall on Saturday, April 12 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Admission is free and refreshments are available by donation.
