Discover the West Coast Through the Brushstrokes of B.C. Artist Christine Gollner

Creativity thrives on inspiration, and for Christine Gollner, nature is a powerful muse. A painter for over 20 years, Christine finds magic in the landscapes around Victoria, British Columbia, where she has lived since the early ’90s. Growing up in Metchosin after moving from Trinidad, she formed a deep bond with nature. “Observing the land and ocean daily gave me a unique connection,” she says. “It’s something you feel, something that comes through in my art.”

Christine often visits places like Cattle Point and Mt. Douglas Park, soaking in all the beauty that surrounds her. “Nature’s perfection sometimes feels overwhelming,” she admits. To capture these moments, she sketches or snaps photos before heading back to her studio to paint. “I paint until the spirit of the moment is found. Each piece takes me on a journey,” she explains.

Before settling in Oak Bay, Christine’s life was full of travel due to her husband’s military career. Despite the uncertainties of moving frequently—with three children to care for—she pursued her passion for art, attending various institutions such as Emily Carr University and the University of Manitoba. While there, she drew inspiration from remarkable artists, particularly the bold shapes of Emily Carr and the world of abstraction.

Living in different regions shaped her perspective. In Yellowknife, for instance, she fell in love with the stark beauty of the North, where the stunning auroras and diverse landscapes became her primary subjects. “Yellowknife was special because that’s when I started painting full-time,” she recalls. “The northern lights and the people inspired me like nothing else.”

After returning to Victoria, Christine quickly integrated into the local art scene. The Victoria Sketch Club played a significant role in her artistic journey. “It’s crucial to have a community to share and learn from,” she notes. She’s now the club’s most enduring active member and is gearing up for their 116th Annual Art Show this March.

Christine embraces change in her work. Initially focused on oils and abstraction, she now paints in a more impressionistic style, often using acrylics. “I used to work with oils and turpentine, but today I prefer acrylics for their safety and versatility. Colors can be tough, but they’re adjustable,” she says. Rather than rushing to produce a lot of work, she values the creative process and experiments with her style. “I was once told that consistency is for small minds. I don’t believe that at all, but I appreciate the freeing mindset,” she adds.

In recent years, the art community has seen a rise in interest in local artists like Christine, with many people turning to social media to discover and support their work. Platforms like Instagram allow artists to showcase their journey and connect with fans. Christine’s own experiences resonate with this trend, proving that creativity and community are thriving in this digital age.

As she prepares for upcoming shows, Christine continues to document her inspirations in her sketchbooks, connecting with fellow artists and art lovers alike. The dialogue around art evolves, but her commitment to conveying the beauty of nature through her paintings remains steadfast.

For anyone interested in the local arts scene, Christine’s work is a testament to the power of place and inspiration. Whether through her paintings or during open studio events, she brings a piece of her journey and passion to life for all to appreciate.

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