The second-ever Sheep River Artist in Residence began earlier this month.
Wanru Kemp was chosen as this year's Artist in Residence, and she says that the work she will be creating during the residency will be based on what she sees on her walk into the art gallery.
"I live close by, so every morning I take a walk and then I take a photo of what I see, along the river," explained Kemp. "Then I make sketches of the photo I took that day. So, it's kind of like a sketch diary. I want to document every day."
After she has done the sketches, Kemp will create a series of watercolour pieces called 'Circular of River'.
As part of this series, Kemp will merge the Chinese philosophy of 'The highest good is like water' with the natural beauty of the area.
"I aim to showcase the perpetual cycles of water and life that define our environment," Kemp said in a speech at the beginning of her residency.
Through her artwork, Kemp wants to explore and learn about the spirit of the Indigenous people's respect for nature, the history of the land, and its people, while still having connections with her own cultural heritage.
"I hope this project will serve as a unique visual language that engages in dialogue with our community about Okotoks's vibrant culture and the natural beauty we are privileged to experience, inspiring us to reflect on our own introspections of the Circular of River," she added in her speech.
During her residency, Kemp will make at least one pencil and charcoal sketch each day.
Wanru Kemp chose to become an artist in her 30s, even though being a newcomer to Canada made it not the easiest path to follow.
"This residency not only marks an important milestone in my career but also deepens my connection to the place I call home. Being selected for this residency is a profound affirmation of my artistic practice," Kemp said in her speech.
Kemp and her family moved to Canada in 2016 and lived in Vancouver for two years.
They eventually moved to Okotoks after her husband got a job in town, and because they have family and friends in the area.
During her residency, Kemp will also host a Chinese Calligraphy workshop at the Okotoks library.
"I'm going to teach a workshop to talk about the foundation of the Chinese calligraphy and ink painting because they are connected together," explained Kemp. "Most kids will learn calligraphy first. There is a saying, 'If you wanted to be a good painter, you start with calligraphy'. There's no escape. You have to practice calligraphy."
Kemp says calligraphy helps artists train their minds and be patient because it requires people to sit straight and control the ink in a similar way to watercolours, due to the way the calligraphy ink absorbs into the rice paper.
During the workshop, Kemp will also talk about the Chinese characters and what they mean.
On top of her residency, Kemp has some of her work at a commercial gallery in New Hampshire called Nahcotta.
Kemp started to create art full-time back in 2018.
To see Wanru Kemp's artwork, check out her Instagram page here.
To learn more about the artist residency and everything to do with the Okotoks Art Gallery, click here.