Sheep River Artist in Residence

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Gary and Wendy brought a unique, collaborative lens to the Okotoks Art Gallery, focusing their residency on a vital local issue: the health of our trout habitats. Drawing inspiration from Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society reporting, they engaged with scientists, industry pros, and residents to weave a story of conservation and community.

The residency culminated in a series of interactive automata—whimsical mechanical sculptures that brought these environmental perspectives to life. Through cranks, levers, and vibrant colours, these portable pieces invited viewers to move the story forward—literally.

It was a beautiful intersection of art, science, and imagination that left a lasting impression on our watershed awareness.

“I am truly honoured to be the newest Sheep River Artist in Residence. As a local artist, this opportunity is not only a personal achievement, but an invaluable chance for me to engage deeply with our community,” says Kemp. “I look forward to sharing my artistic reflections on the landscape and cultural vibrancy of this region with all of you."

During her residency, Wanru developed a series of artworks that reflect the unique landscapes, while capturing the expressive nature of the area and fostering an appreciation for the natural world and its soothing presence.
Born on China’s north coast, Kemp has a degree in photography, but says her training in painting began early on under her father’s guidance. Kemp has exhibited in galleries in Calgary, United States, Vancouver, and at the Okotoks Art Gallery. She was part of the 2023 RBC Emerging Visual Artists Program and has her works in private collections in numerous countries across the globe, including the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, Finland, Germany and others. 

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Tanya Zakarow was selected as the inaugural Sheep River Artist in Residence! Zakarow is a self-taught artist whose work is inspired by the human face. To create her studies, she primarily uses coloured pencil, watercolour and pastels.

The Sheep River Artist-in-Residence program was delighted to unveil the three community members who painted in her unique artistic style.

Thirteen individuals were nominated and over 1,500 votes narrowed the selection down. The finalists were selected by a committee after a review that weighed the voting numbers, with other factors, such as volunteer work, community impact and service to the Town. 

Those individuals are:

Ron Schreiber - Ron Schreiber was the Chairman of the board of Trustees for Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools and a longtime resident of Okotoks before passing away in the fall of 2021. He was a dedicated musician who was part of the St. James Catholic Church choir and gave his time to help elevate the music at the church through his skilled singing and guitar playing.

Lori Chibry - Lori Chibry stands as another remarkable nominee. Through her many years working as a Kindergarten teacher at Big Rock School, she’s had a lasting impact on the Okotoks community. After a fight with cancer, Lori passed away unexpectedly in November 2022. She will always be remembered for loving all children equally and with all her heart.

 

Marg Cox – Marg Cox is well known in Okotoks and has been playing major roles in the community for over three decades. She was recognized for of her years of dedication to almost every aspect of Okotoks life. From fostering community pride by volunteering at sporting events to going above and beyond as a Town of Okotoks Events Specialist. She was inducted into the Okotoks Hall of Fame in 2017 as a Community Builder in the Community Service area.

In addition, Mayor Tanya Thorn was painted.

The Okotoks Arts Council, Okotoks Public Library, and the Town of Okotoks launched the inaugural Sheep River Artist in Residence in the spring of 2023. The program invited artists of any field to apply for the chance to be the artist in residence in Okotoks, Alberta. The program was developed to support and encourage established or emerging artists, while enriching the community with art.