In addition to painting, I have been busy working on a different kind of blank canvas… Richard and I bought an acreage on Vancouver Island. For the past two years, we have completely renovated and transformed the buildings on our property and are now in the process of creating a hobby farm.  When we first got the property, we were quite overwhelmed with the task at hand. As we waded through the knee high weeds, we discovered abandoned beds and fields that needed restoring. For the first year, Richard became full time plumber/irrigation guy tracking down leaks and mini fountains from the extensive underground irrigation system. It was our own version of a secret garden –  neglected but with tremendous potential. This past Spring we had photos taken – too early to see the vegetable gardens and copious sources of fruit and berries but we will be updating as the seasons change.

Thank you for making our first “Celebration of Creative Expression” such a magical event and great sunny success on June 23!

Yes, the sun broke through the clouds just in time to shine its light onto the soiree. The event featured pond creations by Marcel Koller from Streamworks, paintings by Nadine Marshall, magic walls by Inventor Blake Ledingham, music by Evan Kennedy and delicious food by Savoury City.

Starting July 2014, some of my works will be hanging in businesses in Vancouver. From September to October 2014, you can view some of my village scenes at Cornerstone Health Centre… for people who know there is more… located at 3335 West 4th Avenue. Cornerstone clinic provides an integrated treatment strategy that focuses on prevention and healthy sustaining choices that allow you to enjoy all the positive gifts that come with being healthy.

From July to September 2014, you can view some of my poppy themed paintings at Linda’s Urban Spa, Best of Vancouver Winner 2013, located at 2618 West Broadway. Future locations will also be posted here.

You may recognize the painting on the cover of the book (right) entitled Bumpy Roads Have Soft Shoulders. It is “Path to Light”. My sister, Nicole Porlier, has just written this very inspiring book about her life with Neurofibromatosis (NF).

In April 2013, I participated in the Artists in Our Midst event, which is the popular open artists’ studio tour in Vancouver’s West Side. The event kicked off with 35 artists displaying a few select works at the Roundhouse in Yaletown on Thursday night, followed by a weekend of artists’ open studio tours.

I took the opportunity of this event to launch my new studio. My colleague, Michael Stunden joined me by displaying some of his works. The event was a resounding success! Below are some pictures of the studio just minutes before opening.