Did you know the Columbia Valley has its very own painting collective? It may not be as well known as the famous Group of Seven, but the 30-members-strong Purcell Mountain Painters have been capturing their interpretations of the breathtaking local landscapes for over 14 years.

The group was founded by longtime resident, Vivian Crebo, whose legacy is still alive through the camaraderie and collaboration that makes the Purcell Mountain Painters a great place for artists of all skill levels. They meet every Tuesday morning at the Senior’s Hall in Invermere, and are always welcoming and accommodating to new members regardless of their experience.

Some past members of the Purcell Mountain Painters who have gone on to make a name for themselves, both locally and outside of the valley, include Denise Lemaster, June Thomsen, Paula Cravens and Bill Croft. Current members of the group will all agree that the ability to meet and discuss their works, either in progress or finished pieces, has become an integral part of their own development as artists, and the names of some of the alumni are a testament to the positive growth and diversity a group such as this encourages.

Members of the Purcell Mountain Painters work in a variety of mediums, including acrylic, oil, watercolour and mixed media. All of these styles will be on display at Pynelogs Cultural Centre from May 15 – 27.

The show will feature the work of 18 members of the group, and will include primarily landscapes and portraits. The artist’s opening will take place from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16, so come on down and meet some of the soon to be famous members of this group of painting aficionados.

Many of the painters will also be on hand on Sunday, May 20, for an afternoon complete with tea and treats, so if you miss the artist’s opening be sure to pop by Pynelogs and have a chat with the many faces of the Purcell Mountain Painters.

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