When did you first know you wanted to be an Artist?

We think these clarifications arrive in dramatic epiphanies.
In reality it is a trickling, a creek that builds to the strength of a river, fed by passion and hard work.

At one point I realized I have a responsibility to the work and collectors, to pursue it at a greater, more focused level.

New Okanagan Pumpkin Field 9×12 Oil on canvas

I think natural genius is extremely rare. What I have discovered is that some are born with a passion and they work at it relentlessly. They are driven with unquenchable thirst to evolve with a desire to master.
That’s me.

The day I chose to commit to an art career was an absolute defining moment.
I knew choosing art as a career would be a longer, more challenging journey, rather than choosing to paint for a living.
12 years ago I formulated a plan to bring it to fruition.

Decisions on my direction were made based on longevity, ethics, responsibility to the collectors, building relationships, and dedication, always, to the work.
At my plan’s core was (is) to become the best artist I could be, continuously evolve the work & challenge myself.
To make a difference.
To work with the best in the industry.

Only a handful of galleries in Canada match the criteria I look for in an art dealer.
Some of these qualities include:
~ How they treat clients and represent the work.
~ Their extensive knowledge of artists/ art & the industry.
~ If they are informed on the secondary market, and attend auctions.
~ Have good working relationship & network with other dealers.
~ Sell both historical and contemporary work.

Hambleton Galleries in Kelowna BC exceeds these qualifications, and it’s
an honour to formally announce the gallery is representing my work.
After applying nearly a decade ago at the suggestion of Bill Mayberry, it’s an enormously exciting thrill.

New Valley Vineyard 18×24 Oil on wood board

Stewart and Tracy Turcotte are familiar names in the Canadian Art Gallery industry. Both artists, they have been the owners of Hambleton Galleries since 1999.
The gallery is recognized for high standards, quality work, and outstanding service.
The Hambleton represents an extraordinary group of leading Canadian Artists whose works presently grace many national and international private and corporate collections.
They also specialize in historical Canadian art from acquisition and sales to restoration/conservation and appraisal.
Though known to carry a collection of historical work, their aim is also to provide the platform elevate the next generation of Canadian Artists.

I asked Stew about his work, and the kind of experience clients may expect at the Hambleton Galleries.
“The most rewarding thing we do is matching the client to the perfect piece. Clients have burst into tears when the piece is hung on their wall. You can never forget that.
I have had the gallery for 16 years now and love every day, surrounded by art. Sharing it with others is an absolute pleasure.

We offer clients a real Canadian art experience. It’s a part of our job to help clients understand what Canadian art is all about. We engage every client entering the gallery making an effort to put them at ease.
Clients are encouraged to bring young people to the gallery, it’s important to expose them to the significance of art.
Viewing art is very personal. While we assist informing the client, we don’t instruct them on what they should buy, and there is no pressure to purchase.

If clients are collecting for investment we can provide them with the full background and necessary information.
We represent about 50 contemporary artists.
The most popular are doing the most colourful artworks. In a world where interior design calls for neutral tones, general areas lack colour. A few well chosen colourful paintings, the space (home/ office/ venue) springs to life.

We have a fair number of historical or investment pieces at any given moment.
I enjoy working with collectors who are passionate about building a collection of great pieces.
Right now we have art pieces by A Y Jackson, Franz Johnston, Jack Shadbolt, Alfred William Davey, Tony Onley, Daphne Odjig, Norval Morrisseau, Zeljko Kujunzik and Matisse.
Historical pieces are attracting record prices of all time.
Good art generally goes up in value and gives you three possibilities; gift it to a public collection and receive a tax receipt, this is particularly good for individuals who have a huge tax burden, give it to your children, or you can sell it, either through a private dealer or through an auction house.”

During the last decade I have observed Hambleton’s remarkable dedication to Canadian art, their clients and artists.
I have complete faith walking thru the door of Hambleton Galleries you will be treated with respect and discover an enthusiasm for art that is unmatched.
As for my work now being hung among the great of greats adorning the walls of the gallery?
This career artist is ecstatic.

~
Dealer goodwill and friendship are keys to thrival.~ Robert Genn

~ Special thanks to Stew, Tracy and Jessica for their tireless work and kind spirit always welcoming my calls.

~First shipment of paintings include, Tundra, Hills of Gold, Luna, Water, After the Storm.

New Okanagan paintings will be shipped when dry.
~