In 2020, I embarked on a transformative artistic endeavor, dedicating myself to creating a watercolour painting daily. It is a homage to Alberta's extraordinary skyline, capturing its dramatic beauty and ever-changing allure. Little did I know that the arrival of COVID-19 in March would infuse my work with an entirely new significance, forever altering its meaning.

Amidst the uncertainty and challenges of the pandemic, my paintings became a poignant reminder of the importance of mental wellness and self-care. Serving as a gentle nudge to venture outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and find solace in the expansive sky. Regardless of our physical separation, the sky binds us together, reminding us we are never truly alone in our struggles.

The project carries multiple layers of meaning To those unfamiliar with Alberta, it is an open invitation to explore our skies and discover the extraordinary beauty that graces our province year-round. It transcends superficial narratives and invites visitors to witness and immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Alberta landscapes.

For fellow Albertans, this collection serves as a celebration of our remarkable home. In times that have tested our strength, it ignites a spark of hope and resilience. It reminds us to look upward, appreciate simple joys, and find solace in the unbreakable bonds we share as a community We support one another, lend a helping hand in times of need, and share life's moments, regardless of our challenges.

Each painting seamlessly transitions into the next, offering a sense of calm and an opportunity for introspection. A visual sanctuary that invites viewers to pause, reflect, and find peace amidst the brushstrokes. Embark on this artistic journey together, explore the depths of our emotions, celebrate the resilient spirit of Alberta, and discover the profound connections within our shared skies.

It is those connections that this exhibit focuses on. While we all individually have our unique experiences and stories, we also are connected invisibly through unseen stories or from a collective experience such as COVID-19. Because our stories of 2020 are more interwoven than a typical year would be, and my 2020 Skyscape Collection organically took on that added meaning, I want to transfer that to a book I was already planning on creating.

A book that is a cherished symbol of connection and is an important anthropological documentation of our collective experience. Whether that experience is good, bad, unique, devastating, or an unexpected silver lining, all stories are meaningful experiences and connections to share.

The goal is that no matter who you are or where you are in life, you can go through this book, and there will be at least one story that you identify with and resonate with you. Like the skies, this book should bring us together in the knowledge that we are not as alone as we sometimes feel.