Kathleen McCallum

You’re invited to “Japanese Joy”, a new painting series at Bluerock Gallery Sept 19 & 20

The Most Beautiful Art Tour in Alberta” September 19 & 20 | An annual self-guided tour of art galleries and private studios in the foothills of Alberta. The tour features a collection of participating venues, including the Leighton Art Centre, Bluerock Gallery, and various private studios like Firebrand Glass Studio, offering a unique opportunity to explore art and creativity in a beautiful setting. Kathleen will be one of several guest artists at Bluerock Gallery, with a painting demo and conversation about her recent series, “Japanese Joy” paintings, inspired from a recent trip. If you are unable to visit the gallery, her exciting artwork will be displayed on their site, starting September 18.

“France Romance” | A delightful jaunt around the city of lights (and love!) until Sept 17

Experience Kathleen’s journey to France in June 2024, through her collection of paintings, each infused with inspiration and cherished memories. Her adventure began at the Musée d’Orsay, home to the iconic “Paris 1874” exhibit, featuring Monet’s Impression, Sunrise, the painting that ignited the Impressionist movement. Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Cézanne boldly broke free from traditional artistic norms, only to be ridiculed for their "unfinished" style and unconventional subjects.

From there, Kathleen wandered the historic cafés of Montmartre, once frequented by these same artists. The city’s architecture—French Gothic, Art Nouveau, Cubism, Art Deco, and more—culminates in the towering Eiffel Tower. The mid-19th century also saw a transformation in urban design, thanks to Baron Haussmann’s vision of wide boulevards, fountains, and lush gardens. It was the perfect setting to indulge in classic French cuisine.

Leaving Paris, she followed the River Seine, stopping in charming towns like Mantes-La-Jolie, Vernon, Giverny (with Monet’s stunning home and gardens), and Normandy, all the way to Le Havre. Along the way, Kathleen absorbed the same breathtaking views that once inspired Monet, Van Gogh, and other masters.

Now, with every brushstroke, Kathleen strives to evoke the beauty and emotion of those moments, blending clarity with the loose impressionistic style that reflects her unique perspective. Her "France Romance" series captures not just the sights, but the love, energy, and movement of her incredible journey.

Works from the heart

Calgarian Kathleen McCallum is an Alberta College of Art, Visual Communications graduate.

Her background in graphic design is evident in her eye-catching paintings, which exude beauty and a playfulness. Her love of detail and colour is visible in her artwork.

Kathleen is represented by Bluerock Gallery. Her paintings can be found in private and corporate collections and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts provincial collection.

She is an Exhibiting Member of the Federation of Canadian Artists (Vancouver Chapter) and a member of the Leighton Art Centre.

Follow Kathleen on Instagram