About the Artist

Art has always been my safe place. From the time I was a kid, I couldn’t help but get lost in drawing, painting, and coloring. I remember getting into trouble in school for doodling cartoon characters when I should have been paying attention. But I think that’s where my love for creativity first took root.

After I was injured working in drywall, my world changed. Facing surgeries and eventually the amputation of my left leg was a hard journey. Picking up my brushes again wasn’t just a way to pass the time – it became a vital part of my emotional and mental healing. Art gave me something to hold onto when everything felt uncertain. Witch each pencil stroke, I found a little more peace, a little more strength.

There’s a calm I feel when I’m working – whether it’s with a pencil, pen, or brush. Hours can slip by as I immerse myself in my creativity. Every piece I create carries a piece of me with it. I pour my heart into each one, making sure that not only do I like it – I need to love it.

Moving to Nakusp, BC, over five years ago has been one of the greatest gifts. The stunning landscapes and endless natural beauty have given me more inspiration than I could ever have imagined. Every hike, every view I take in becomes a part of my artwork, and I feel so fortunate to live in a place where I can turn what I see into something I can share with others.

Without art, I’d be lost. It’s more than just a passion – it’s a lifeline. When people connect with my work, when they tell me how it makes them feel, it’s the most humbling experience. It’s like I’ve been given this incredible gift to communicate through my art what words often can’t express.

This past year, losing both my mom and dad has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced. For a while, I couldn’t pick up a pen or brush – I was just too broken. But they were the ones who always encouraged me to follow my passion, and I feel like I owe it to them to keep going. Every time I create, I’m doing it with their love and support in my heart, pushing me to keep moving forward.

— Rky