Meet your instructor: Elayne Preston

My artistic journey began upon retirement from healthcare about 8 years ago when I tried a watercolour class during a winter vacation in Arizona. I was hooked and immersed myself in as many classes as I could manage over the next few years with some wonderful local artist mentors. I am mostly self-taught through video tutorials but also learn from a variety of in-person workshops and courses.

My first love is watercolour with its somewhat unpredictable nature. Most recently, I have been experimenting with negative space painting in watercolour, creating intricate layered backgrounds by painting the space around objects. I discovered that each medium carries its own challenges and unexpected rewards, so I had to try others. My artwork now encompasses watercolour, acrylic, alcohol ink, mixed media, collage, encaustic wax, water-soluble oils, and pastel (soft and oil). I paint using twigs, my own gel press, an air compressor, dental wands, cling wrap, sculpting and nail art tools, sponges, foil, a squeegee, and just about anything I can get my hands on.

I love to explore a variety of subjects, especially west coast landscapes, flora, and fauna. Some pieces incorporate the semi-abstract with a slight whimsical nature. Plein air painting (outdoors) adds to the fun - throw in a timed on-site competition, and I'm in! You can also find me painting down at West Beach in White Rock on nice days. I have participated in the Grand Prix of Art competition at Steveston for the past 3 years. My husband, Terry, creates beautiful frames to showcase my work. We operate a booth to display/sell my pieces at local art fairs and artisan markets. I plan to teach art workshops in 2024.

I belong to several art guilds/councils, showcasing my work at local galleries in Langley, Surrey, and Delta. I am a member of the South Delta Artists Guild, the South Surrey White Rock Art Society, the Semiahmoo Art Society, Langley Arts Council, and the Art Council of Surrey.