Feature Artist | Laura Nelson

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A direct descendent of one of Fernie’s earliest settlers, Laura Nelson is deeply connected to Fernie and the Elk Valley in all its forms. As a landscape artist, she paints in reverence of wild places that are disappearing at alarming rates and as a form of environmental activism; reaffirming our essential connection to, and stewardship of, the remarkable ecosystems we live and play in. Mainly self-taught, Nelson has studied under major Canadian artists including Mike Svob, David Langevin, Michael O’Toole, Angela Morgan and Ingrid Christenson. She enjoys the challenge, learning and self discovery that the immersive process of painting brings to her life. Experimentation and trying new techniques have allowed her to develop an evolving style which reflects her love of the outdoors. She is constantly looking to document both the beauty and the significance of the local landscape to present it as something to be recognized and preserved. Nelson’s work celebrates the colour, rhythm, and energy of nature. Her paintings translate the patterns created by the flow of energy and movement by playing with line, colour, value, abstract shapes, and texture. The power of place to conjure memories, feelings of connection and that humbling sense of belonging to something much bigger than ourselves drives her to continually seek new ways to reflect the majesty and intricacy of the natural world. Laura Nelson lives and works between the banks of the Elk River and the edge of the Mt Fernie Provincial Park. She enjoys hiking and biking the local trails with her husband, seeking out new vistas to study in paint. Her work can be found at Polar Peek Books in Fernie and online, and she also offers painting classes and workshops. Lauranelson.ca FB: Laura Nelson Artwork Instagram: lfernienelson