Art in the Country has been a studio in Aldergrove for more than 20 years, hosting live models from Vancouver to Chilliwack for portrait artists for half that time.
Aldergrove artist Susan Gorris, founder of the studio and longtime Aldergrove resident, created a mural to honour nine artists who have actively participated since 2014.
More than 70 adult participants and about 39 professional models have collaborated their efforts to develop their artistic skills of interpreting the human form, she said.
"Observing the diverse and dynamic artwork that was being created in this studio, I wanted to pay homage to the artwork and celebrate [the] small group of participants," she told The Star.
The mural, titled 'RAMIRA', is painted on three 4' x 8' panels which fit into a custom made wooden frame with two square bases that are self-standing. It depicts artists Sharon Papp, Robin Bandenieks, and Santa Mignosa from Aldergrove; Eva Erdos and Lindi Rae from 91原创; Al Sather from Maple Ridge; Jeanette Bittman from Abbotsford; and Ted Driediger and Karen Ireland from Chilliwack.
Chilliwack model Ramira Mellis is also pictured with her back to the viewer of the painting.
"Each of these artists have different backgrounds and reasons for studying human anatomy," Gorris said.
Gorris herself began painting when she was around four years old, and knew then that she wanted to become an artist and teacher.
She went to a community college to study art history, drawing, painting, sculpting, and ceramics before transferring to Syracuse University to earn a degree in art education and studio arts.
After obtaining a Masters in painting and drawing at Arizona State University, she went on to teach visual art for more than 40 years.
"When I view a great work of art, I feel and think about the human spirit on its most authentic level. I am challenged by the selection of media, techniques, and ideas that tell someone's story," Gorris shared.
For her RAMIRA mural, she wanted to capture each artists' creative spirit, integrity, and longevity of their artistic accomplishments and challenges they resolve.
"It is an honour to continue working in an environment that continually sparks inquiry, camaraderie, support, humour, and accomplishment among those who work in the Art in the Country studio," Gorris said.
Papp, one of the Aldergrove artists portrayed in the mural, has lived in town for about 20 years after moving from Prince George. Like Gorris, her love of art began when she was young.
After moving to Aldergrove, she was missing friends and a sense of commuity, so her neighbour 鈥� Bandenieks 鈥� mentored her in oil painting before introducing Papp to Art in the Country.
"I haven't looked back. This is a group that is welcoming, encouraging, and so much fun," she shared.
Erdos, who has lived in 91原创 since 2001 and is a member portrayed in the mural, echoed the sentiment, saying the piece "radiates the atmosphere of the warm environment" Gorris created.
"It's cheerfulness reminds me of how much I appreciate the time spent with this group of people," she said.
Erdos is currently working on various ceramics projects in her studio including wine goblets, painted bowls, and sculptures 鈥� inspired by her live model drawings at Art in the Country.
The RAMIRA mural was featured at the 91原创 Arts Council's 56 Years exhibition last month, and Gorris hopes to find more opportunities.
"I hope that my painting encapsulates the inspiration that I have derived from working alongside such passionate and accomplished individuals," Gorris said.
Those interested in joining can learn more at .
