Kelowna Artist Inspires South Cariboo Creatives Through Painting Workshop

Kelowna-based artist Jonn Einerssen recently led an inspiring painting workshop at the Parkside Art Gallery in 100 Mile House, British Columbia. Held from August 19 to August 20, 2023, the event attracted a dozen local artists eager to learn techniques for creating stunning landscapes. Einerssen emphasized the importance of enjoyment in the creative process, stating, “Having fun while you paint is one of the most important keys to artistic success.”

Einerssen’s approach to teaching focuses on fostering individual creativity rather than replicating his style. “I want to teach them how to paint and use the colours scientifically so that they have a good base to work on,” he explained. This philosophy encouraged participants to explore their unique artistic visions, leading to a diverse array of final pieces.

With over 54 years of experience, Einerssen is largely self-taught, having gained skills through workshops and personal exploration. Originally from Saskatchewan, he was inspired by the expansive skies of his youth. His artistic career took him from owning a studio on Granville Island in Vancouver to living in the Shuswap and painting at Lake Louise for over a decade. He has resided in Kelowna for the past 37 years, where he has operated several galleries.

Workshop Highlights and Participant Experiences

Throughout the workshop, Einerssen encouraged artists to “get out of your own way” and let the painting process unfold naturally. He likened painting to music, describing it as “the closest you can get to God,” as it involves creating something from nothing. His desire to share knowledge led him to collaborate with local artist Vance Theoret, who connected him with the South Cariboo Artist Guild and helped facilitate the workshop.

Local artist Michelle Spence, who has primarily worked as a photographer, attended the workshop at the suggestion of her mentor, Bobbie Crane. Spence expressed her enthusiasm for learning oil painting techniques, particularly for portraits, noting, “Oil is one of the best mediums for doing portraits.” She aimed to expand her artistic repertoire, and Einerssen’s expertise proved invaluable in overcoming her initial apprehension about using oil paints.

Spence highlighted the distinct qualities of oil paint, explaining that it creates a soft, blurred texture with depth. “When you do that, it creates a translucent effect and has more depth to it,” she said, drawing a comparison to the difference between homemade and store-bought pasta sauce. This level of understanding, she noted, marked a successful workshop for everyone involved.

Einerssen found that participants not only gained artistic skills but also a renewed appreciation for nature. He observed that many students began to see the world differently after engaging with their surroundings through painting. “I think it binds people a little more to the planet. They’re a little more respectful of it because they actually start to look and see the different colours,” he remarked.

The Impact of Community and Creativity

The collaborative spirit of the workshop fostered a supportive atmosphere, where each artist could express their individual style. Spence noted that even seasoned artists benefited from Einerssen’s guidance, taking away valuable insights that they could incorporate into their work. “Everybody did something different. They took what they needed from his teachings and translated them into their own styles,” she said.

Einerssen’s commitment to nurturing creativity and community engagement through art is evident in his teaching style. He believes that the workshop’s success lies in the transformation of how participants perceive the natural world and their interactions with it. By encouraging them to engage with their surroundings artistically, he hopes to instill a deeper respect for the environment.

As the workshop concluded, Einerssen reiterated the importance of enjoyment in the artistic journey. “If you’re not having fun, don’t do it. The most important piece of advice is to get out of your own way,” he advised. This philosophy not only resonates with aspiring artists but also serves as a reminder of the joy that creativity can bring to life.