Avril Whitney

Ironically, my high school sweetheart went to Art College while I looked on in shy admiration, never dreaming I would pick up a brush.

Later in my 20's, I was determined to "find myself" and dove into Julia Cameron's 'The Aritist's Way' (which I highly recommend) to reclaim my own creativity. Off I went to the fancy art supply store. I was such a newbie that the salesman could have charged me a fortune! But, bless his heart, he sold me a cheap canvas, a small set of acrylic paints, a few brushes, and sent me off, saying that I could come back for more sophisticated materials if I liked painting.

I do indeed like painting and the wooden tray my original set of paints came in became my pallet for the next 25+ years! (see photo on front page)

As I gave myself permission to show up on the canvas, I learned two things very quickly:

a) The inner voice of doubt and criticism can be SO LOUD...but it is a paper dragon, not to be feared. 

b) If it looks terrible, just keep going!!!!!

Painting spoke to my soul. I painted on the walls, on little canvases and big ones. I explored own images and others that inspired me. I began to learn and to gain confidence. 

For several years, I only painted for myself. Then, one day at my children's school, a powerful mother of five and head of a planning commitee pointed at me, saying, "You're an artist, right?" As I stammered uncertainly, she flat out told me that I was volunteering to do her a painting. Okay! I must be an artist for real! 

Soon after that came my first commissioned piece. I was terrified! But the painting turned out well and the response was great. More commissions followed. 

I began to show some of my own original paintings and would often sell a piece because someone would say, "I just have to have that painting!" What a genuine thrill to be able to touch someone with a piece of art. 

Over time, I have become able to say 'I am an artist' and mean it. 

Alongside my development as an artist, a very busy life has been happening, including many ups and downs, joys and sorrows (like most folks). I've had the priveledge of raising of two wonderful children who amaze me every day. And, this past year, my daughter and I opened a children's book and toy store in North Vancouver. 

The store, Forest Fairy Books and Toys, is an art adventure as well with my art on the walls in the form of 10 foot high murals and rainbow sponge painting. There are many fun canvases for sale there too. 

So, please visit us in person if you are in Lynn Valley. Or shoot me an email and we can talk about your artwork needs. I look forward to meeting new people and seeing where the artisit's road takes me next. Thank you for being part of the adventure :)

www.forestfairybooksandtoys.com