Jocelyn is a Southern Alberta artist and teacher who finds inspiration in the animals and landscapes around her. She specializes in animal portraits, and using texture to convey landscapes. As a classroom teacher for seven years before having two beautiful children, it was the perfect fit to combine art and teaching 4 years ago. Through her art, she shares her deep connection to nature's beauty, and guides her students to embrace their own creative voices and grow into confident, authentic artists. Jocelyn believes wholeheartedly that art should be accessible to everyone and that anyone who is willing can find an artist within themselves. She knows it is an incredible gift to share her love of art with so many incredible students.

Ashley Gaboury is a mixed media artist and illustrator who specializes in finely descriptive animal and portrait work. She has been teaching art to youth and adults for over 20 years and her clear instruction and demonstration of technique has been transformative for many of her students.

She works closely with The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary and her art has featured several of the rescued animals from the facility. She has a special relationship with canine/lupine animals, and her renditions of these beautiful creatures carries a deep weight of emotion. Ashley has devoted her life to art and art education, and her passion for her work and for teaching is evident in everything that she does.

-Eli Shigehiro, former student (Tattoo Artist - Haven Tattoo)

Taylor’s journey with art began at the age of 14, when creativity quickly became more than just a hobby—it became a lifelong passion. After graduating from the Alberta High School of Fine Arts, Taylor continued to refine his skills and artistic vision at the Alberta College of Art and Design, where he explored a variety of mediums and techniques.

Whether it’s sketching fresh ideas or capturing the beauty of a sunset on canvas, Taylor finds his greatest sense of peace and purpose in the act of creating. He brings this same energy and inspiration into the classroom, where his favorite role is guiding students on their own creative journeys. Taylor has a special gift for helping young artists discover their unique style, encouraging them to express themselves with confidence, imagination, and joy.

With a balance of technical knowledge and a supportive teaching style, Taylor believes that art is not just about the final product, but about the process of exploration and growth. His goal is to nurture each student’s individuality, helping them see that their creativity has no limits.

Iwalani Rose is a passionate artist and instructor who finds joy in helping others discover their creative voice through watercolour. With a background rooted in both art and community, Iwalani blends technical skill with a warm, encouraging teaching style that welcomes artists of all levels. Her classes focus on exploration, confidence, and the beauty of imperfection—inviting each student to connect deeply with colour, texture, and expression.

As the owner of Paintworks Art Studio & Supply in Okotoks, Alberta, Iwalani curates a vibrant space where creativity flourishes. The shop offers high-quality art materials, custom framing, workshops, and a supportive environment for artists to learn, share, and grow. Alongside her son, Taylor, she continues to build a creative hub that inspires connection through art.

Rani Crawford has been an active artist and art instructor for over thirty-five years. Before concentrating on her art, she was a classroom teacher for twenty years. She also owned and operated an art supplies, framing and studio business for fourteen years.

Her interests include all fine art mediums, and she finds her muse in natural subjects such as landscapes, seascapes, florals, birds and children at play. She thinks of her art works as small treasures. Each art piece is unique to reflect the individuality of her subjects and every aspect of nature is an opportunity to use pure colour and bravura brushwork.

Always inspired by her surroundings, it is hard for Rani to run out of ideas for new paintings. Each painting is a synthesis of plein air sketches, memory and imagination.

Over the course of her career, Rani has worked with a number of charities in support of both humanitarian and conservation initiatives. Her works are in collections in Canada and Europe.