Art Inspired by nature.
Born on Vancouver Island, my art is rooted in tradition and inspired by nature. Watercolour’s organic flow and gravity-guided layering keep me hooked—it’s timeless in a modern world.
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In this second take on the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, I couldn’t resist diving deeper into the vibrant hues of salmon flesh—it felt like the perfect way to tell the story of this historic place. The bold reds and violets seemed to pulse with life, echoing the bustling days when the cannery was at its peak.
I wanted the brushstrokes to flow as freely as the history of Steveston itself, loose and fluid, with the watery medium capturing the essence of the scene. There’s something almost poetic about using the colors of the salmon, not just to represent the industry but to embody its energy and vitality.
This quick plein air study is both an homage and an exploration—a celebration of the cannery’s spirit, its connection to the community, and the layers of history that ripple through its story.
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I often attend a Plein air painting group organized by Rod Winning. This day was at Boundary Bay, Tsawwassen, BC. A lush spot, vibrant in July's glory. The tide was out as far as I could see, adding to the bay’s east facing beauty. Shared lunch with a fantastic crew of artists whose works and conversations were true to life.
Watercolour, 11.25" x 8.25"
Location: 49.0044° N, 123.0958° W
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Here’s the painting that didn’t quite make it—but hey, that’s life!
This summer, I was all set to compete in all three Art Grand Prix's: White Rock, Steveston, and West Van (Harmony Arts). Everything was going smoothly. I drew location #1 from the hat: 13th Street — 14th Street. So there I was, out on the dock, looking North, ready to create something special. I spent an hour planning my composition, chatting with some friendly bystanders and crab fishermen along the way.
Confident I had timed everything right, I wrapped up at 1:30 PM. But Scotty and I, who carpooled and used his truck as a framing station, underestimated the walk back. We arrived at 2:10 PM—10 minutes late. They wouldn’t take our submissions because of it. Oh well, rules are rules!
I was blown away by the talent around me—Shan and Orion really knocked it out of the park. I thought I did something unique, something that reflected my style. But there’s always next year! Lesson learned: paint for yourself and never let anyone hold you back. Thanks, Harmony, for the opportunity. I was honored to have been a part of it.
I built a custom plein air station from a modified Manfrotto tripod. Whenever I get the time, I head out to capture landscapes, seascapes, and moments in motion.
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Impressionistic watercolour of a river trug seen from my studio in Steveston, inspired by days spent refining my craft for the Grand Prix of Art. The Fraser River’s ever-changing scenery, from freighters to tugs to pleasure crafts, captivates me daily. This piece, painted with delicate wet-on-wet washes and soft preliminary sketches, embodies the rhythm and spirit of life along the river.
Watercolour, 5" x 7.5"
Location: 49.1370° N, 123.0501° W.
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A shoreline frozen in time where boats and old tales linger in the air. What a day with this Plein air brush group, met new faces and picked up new paint tips.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 12" x 16", Location: Ladner Harbour Boat Basin 49.0909° N, 123.0820° W
Date: June, 2024
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Watercoloured the east side of the historic fishing building at Scotch Pond in Steveston Marine Park. This building is a vital piece of Japanese-Canadian history, standing resiliently post-WWII. Located near a boat mooring, its significance remains debatable but undeniable. I chose bright, cheerful colours to celebrate the Japanese culture and their contributions to Canada.
Watercolour, 11.25" x 8.25"
Location: 49.1255° N, 123.1864° W
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Whiterock boasts a breathtaking landscape with Mount Baker nestled in its southeast corner. The beach stretches endlessly with magnificent views and dreamy vistas facing due south—a place I'd love to call home one day. My loose watercolor has an unintentional flow and connection with the motion of the sea.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 8”x10”", Location: looking East, Whiterock, BC (49.0264° N, 122.8050° W)
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Scott, Chris, and I headed out for a plein air session at Crescent Beach, right next to Blackie’s Spit. The area has great trails overlooking farmhouses on woody hills. I was drawn to a large, sunny hill with a circle of rocks—felt a bit like a mini Stonehenge.
As I walked around looking for the perfect spot, my socks got tangled in thistles and thorny grass. I finally set up under an elder tree. There it was—my composition. I sketched a few tonal drawings on grey paper, then did a colour study.
In my studies, I reversed the natural colours with a split complementary palette. The sky turned peach, the green foliage became rich purple, and the wheat-coloured hilltop turned teal. The stones, rich with violets, looked like marshmallows. I used only four colours with no heavy darks, creating a mystical feeling.
Sketching and studies took 1.5 hours, and the painting itself took just over an hour. It was a relaxing day of painting, right after the Grand Prix of Art.
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I went back for a second paint. This time I wanted to paint the interior view of the gillnetter in the centre window of the Murakami Boatworks. I love the H-pattern window pane and the simplified scale model once crafted here.
Possibly built by Otokichi himself, this scale model reflects my childhood as a toy I once desired, inspiring me to study and paint it over the last couple of days. Painting from the backside, where the light was cool, was a great experience and brought a whole different emotion.
Big thanks to Zulema and Juliana for letting me in to take pictures. Check out my blog for more details: Grand Prix of Art.
Would love to hear your thoughts!
July 14, 2024
Watercolour, 11.25" x 8.25"
Location: 49.1256° N, 123.1830° W
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Well, another year has passed, and here’s my watercolour entry for the 14th Annual Grand Prix of Art. This year, I practiced at a few locations beforehand to prep my brush strokes and calm my nerves. Out of 40 locations, I was assigned the Seine Net Loft—a place I’ve painted twice before. Funny enough, it was the last spot I expected!
Arriving at the spot, I felt nervous. The other painters were already set up, and another arrived late like a whirlwind. I did my tonal sketches before the starting bell and began my scene quicker than last year. However, between 10:30 and 11:30, I thought I had wrecked it. My confidence dropped when my roof and foliage looked dark to passersby. I forgot the cardinal rule of watercolour: it looks wrong until it’s nearly done.
I started a new painting with less than 1.25 hours to go but quickly abandoned it and returned to my original piece. I went wild finishing it and realized my inner critic was wrong—it was fine! Great feedback from everyone confirmed it.
Lessons learned this year:
Don’t listen to your inner critic.
Do a colour study to capture the right emotion.
Consider painting a simpler scene if you’re familiar with the location.
Participating in these events boosts my confidence, hones my skills, and connects me with other artists. Even though I didn’t win, it was a total win for me. Thanks to Mark Glavina, the volunteers, my mom, my love Monique, and all my friends. Here’s to next year!
Title: "Where Nets Get Lost"
Medium: Watercolour
Size: 22.9cm x 30.5cm (9" x 12")
Location: Seine Net Loft Building
Coordinates: 49.1242° N, 123.1853° W
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The old 1937 Japanese-style double-ended gillnetter, named Eva, built by the Suzuki Brothers Boat Yard, and originally owned by Henry Jacobson from Finn Slough, BC. Docked deep in the wild grass, with the water level barely visible, the craft stands as a still life of a fishing season seemingly on permanent standby. The slough is lined with stilted houses, and the grass reflects all shades of pink, lemon yellow, and violet, all moored against a cerulean blue sky. In the distance, eagles chirp and sea lions flounder in the Fraser River.
Today, I witnessed a man catch a sturgeon with a fishing rod. He took a selfie with the prehistoric creature before getting into his Tesla and driving off. It's a striking scene where new meets old, amidst rustic shacks filled with characters and fish net memories.
Medium: Watercolour
Location: Finn Slough, GPS Coordinates: 49.1362° N, 123.1806° W
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I chose to paint the little gillnetter model from outside the Murakami Boatworks, located on Steveston's historical grounds. This Plein Air painting focuses on the wood textures and colours of the hand-built boat.
I wanted to capture the optimistic feeling as if the model boat were alive, dreaming about going to the big sea, making friends with the captain and fisherman crew it would inspire. The boat hopelessly loves salmon and never quite understood the idea of fishing, as it has spent its entire life on the window shelf, inspired by the changing seasons and wondering when it will get its turn to show the world what it can do.
The medium is watercolour.
GPS Coordinates for the Murakami Boatworks: 49.1256° N, 123.1830° W
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Had to go back for a second paint of the fading Starliner, a ship drydocked for some time. A blooming rose bush right next to the rusting ship makes this composition special for me—a juxtaposition of the living and the lifeless. A reminder of how fast life can pass us by, and for this season, the roses bear life.
A story of resilience and the passage of time.
Medium: Watercolour
Size: 11" x 10.25"
Location: Britannia Shipyard
Coordinates: 49.1242° N, 123.1853° W
Date: June 2024
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The Gulf of Georgia Cannery washed with reds and violets, a nod to a vibrant fishing past now on standby.
Medium: Watercolour
Size: 11.25" x 8.25"
Location: Gulf of Georgia Cannery
Coordinates: 49.1255° N, 123.1864° W
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Morning crisp — 7” x 5.25”
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Concrete factory — 7” x 5.25”
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Deas island park — 7” x 5.25”
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Sandy river — 7” x 5.25”
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Mount Baker — 7” x 5.25”
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A warm overcast plein air painting session with Scott at the old Seine Net Loft in Steveston. A day filled with sketching and capturing old marine buildings. I think Got a wee yellow on the side of loft, adding to the vibrancy of the lush foliage.
Loose, goosey strokes depict moody clouds, light rain, and the ever-changing afternoon that brought a scene to life.
Medium: Watercolour
Size: 12" x 8.5"
Location: Steveston, Seine Net Loft
Coordinates: 49.1242° N, 123.1853° W
Date: June 2024
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The "Starliner" at Britannia Shipyard—spontaneous pick, off the beaten path. This grand old dame needs some serious TLC, but she's a sight to behold in this 8-acre time capsule. Charcoal couldn't capture the lively contrast of the blooming rose bush beside it, so I went back and painted the pink roses. I'll return to work on a wider composition.
Medium | charcoal | Size 7.5” X 11” | Location: Steveston: Latitude: 49.1242° N Longitude: 123.1822° W
Date: June, 2024
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No. 7 Road Pier Park beckons with its cool charm, offering vistas of South Vancouver and transportation delights.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: No. 7 Road Pier Park, Richmond, BC (49.20224622126065, -123.0478998041564)
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A sweet little history of Cherry Lane Farms lies within this captivating old Ford truck. Its weathered exterior, reminiscent of mid-June blueberries, caught my eye during a visit to the farm. Surprisingly, the truck's hue mirrored the early developing apples, creating an ironic harmony.
Currently undergoing restoration, this Ford truck's colour continues to evoke thoughts of ripening fruits in the month of June. Experience the timeless charm of this vintage beauty—a testament to the enduring connection between man-made marvels and the natural world.
Medium: Watercolour 14” x 10”, Location Cherry lane Farm Richmond, BC (49.19364762405917, -123.115411519672)
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Old trees hold a special place in my heart, igniting my imagination like nothing else. They stand tall, rooted in one spot, silently witnessing the passage of time. Through the changing seasons, they provide shelter and safety to tiny creatures. Everyone has a cherished memory of a favorite tree from long ago.
Medium: Watercolour 11” x 17” Location Vancouver Island | Watercolour 11” x 17” (49.472508645852535, -124.68488963650532)
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With a childlike passion for tugboats and water transportation, I stumbled upon an ideal painting location while jogging across the Arthur Laing Bridge. Nestled on the east shoreline of Sea Island (YVR), I found inspiration for a few hours, imagining myself as part of the unique history of Mercury Transport Inc. This small barge business proudly offers top-tier Tug and Barge services to our valued partners along the beautiful coast of British Columbia.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: 7340 Airport Rd, Richmond, BC (49.197154302696404, -123.13636291203488)
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This old river flows past the parking lot of Gilbert Beach in Steveston, offering a picturesque and scenic landscape. It overlooks Westham Island, where the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary and the Alaksen National Wildlife Area are located. The weather in this area can be quite beautiful, with occasional fishing vessels passing by.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 9" x 12", Location: Gilbert Beach, Parkway, Steveston (49.11359136929524, -123.1514831651286).
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Mitchell Island, BC—where the river's evolution is painted in loose watercolors with flowing paint runs and bold washes. Set against the backdrop of Vancouver's iconic Lions and rugged mountains, this piece captures the raw blend of industry and nature. The river's journey unfolds as it meets the boundless Salish Sea, symbolizing the ongoing dance between land and ocean.
Medium | Water colour | Size 10” X 21” | Location: River Road, Richmond: (49.198362740071566, -123.08444922429933)
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No. 7 Road hosts captivating watercraft—a catamaran, nestled amidst aged logs, undergoing construction. Cloaked in tarps and adorned with enigmatic objects, it exudes an air of mystery. A picturesque haven beckoning artists to capture its allure en plein air.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: River Road, past Tom-Mac Shipyards, Richmond, BC (49.198922804419404, -123.02997558551435)
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Monique and I proudly present our commissioned watercolor of Moraine Lake in Banff, Alberta, inspired by my photographic journeys with New Zealand artist Matt Quérée during the Travel Alberta campaign. Under "Monique and John Art," we drew from our visits to Moraine Lake, taking three drafts to perfect this piece. Our aim was to depict the fresh snow on the Ten Peaks, unique to Banff, the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Medium: 140lb Artistico Fabriano Paper and a mix of Windsor & Newton and Daniel Smith paints, Size: 12"x 16", Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Alberta (51°19′21″N 116°11′08″W / 51.32250°N 116.18556°W)
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In the heart of Richmond lies a time-honoured farm that has been passed down through several generations. It's home to a multifaceted individual known for his notoriety in the world of music, his talent as a sound composer, his role as a devoted father, his skill as a farmer, and his undeniable genius. As a tribute to Bob on his birthday, I've created a watercolour painting, dated October 26th, 2023
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 12"x 16", Location: 9571 Beckwith Rd, Richmond BC (49.18870626474669, -123.14215053957204)
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Priming the brushes with a classic plein air painting session at Finns Slough, today signified an artistic boot camp where I was exhilarated to warm up with these talented artists who will compete in the grand prix of art in Steveston on July 22nd. This is my watercolour masterpiece, crafted in a mere three hours looking down the line of this historical location. Make sure to join us for the main event, which will also last three hours. Don't miss out!
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: No.4rd South and Dyke Rd, Richmond, BC (49.1127426924149, -123.11796953180145)
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River Road meanders through a picturesque past adorned with scattered ships, wrecks, and a distinct Western vibe. This river, nestled between mountains and the ocean, captivated me upon discovery. Moored boats lined the shores, and the name "Contender" assured me it was a perfect spot for my painting. The serenity enveloped me as I immersed myself in on-location painting.
Medium: Water colour | Size 10” X 21” | Location: River Road, Richmond: (49.19347365833975, -123.0093188768839)
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Amphibious by nature, not by design. Sometimes passion needs TLC. This perch unveils our cherished vessels, showcasing their robust hulls. A worm's eye view unveils the essence of ship design. These two watercraft are kindred spirits from separate lineages.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: 7951 River Rd, Richmond, BC (49.18743365737414, -123.1370545122205)
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Hodder Tugboat Co. Ltd. - a secluded powerhouse nestled in Richmond, B.C. With a focus on marine towing, they cater to the vibrant forest industry, shuttling logs, lumber, pulp, and paper to coastal mills and beyond.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: No. 7 Road Pier Park, Richmond, BC (49.20224622126065, -123.0478998041564)
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Where university rowers, soaring flights, and moored water vessels converge in a spectacle of land and transportation.
Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: 7951 River Rd, Richmond, BC (49.18757560637646, -123.13709300448079)
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From the Milltown Bar & Grill parking lot, you'll catch a sweeping view of the marina. Pleasure crafts of all kinds dot the waters, patiently awaiting their owners' next voyage. It's an inviting scene, full of possibilities and the promise of adventure, calling out to those who seek the thrill of the open sea.
Year Medium: Watercolour, Size: 10" x 14", Location: 9191 Bentley St, Richmond, BC (49.2018606314517, -123.14298113555824)
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My uncle Gord, a master of automotive mechanics and carburation. From a young age, he became legendary in the vintage car industry. His work exemplifies precision, yielding remarkable engines and chassis’s from his shop.
Medium: Watercolour 24” x 16.5”, Location Qualicum Bay, Vancouver Island (49.40002727792535, -124.62287701706461)
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There's something truly magical about big old houses with their enchanting Victorian-Edwardian design, all seamlessly blending into a tapestry of joy.
Medium: Watercolour 24” x 16.5”, Location (now gone) Albion, BC (49.184190702949024, -122.55618366259144)