Okanagan artist paints 60 paintings in 60 days

Photo: Contributed

For Melissa Dinwoodie, painting is a form of therapy.

And with the COVID-19 lockdown earlier this year, she had a lot of time to do that therapy.

The Kelowna-based artist created 60 paintings in 60 days and now that artwork will be on display at two Okanagan events.

On Saturday July 18, Dinwoodie's creations will be at the Caetani Cultural Centre in Vernon from noon to 9 p.m.

Dinwoodie will have a second showing in Kelowna Wednesday July 22 at the Rustic Reel Brewery from 2-9 p.m.

All of Dinwoodie's artwork is for sale at the showings. 

She began her COVID-painting odyssey after being laid-off from her job as a bartender.

“It gave me a purpose every day,” she said of her painting marathon. “Some days were more challenging than others to get the painting done because you don't always feel creative, but it was a good way to get through the pandemic and everything you were thinking about.”

Dinwoodie has long been an artist, and paints mostly portraits.

She is now back to work, but Dinwoodie continues to pursue her passion for art.

She specializes in acrylic and mixed media painting and illustration. Her practice focuses on figurative and portrait art, and she says she's fascinated with the possible connection between the viewer and subject matter.

Always experimenting with different materials and surfaces, Melissa believes that art can be the communication between people that encourages conversations, relationships, education and growth.  The art process is her survival guide and the way she connects.

People attending the Caetani event are reminded to keep social distancing protocols and to bring a mask.