Kincardine artist showcases love of boating in her work at Victoria Park Gallery

Emily Chan of Kincardine loves boating and painting, and has combined these two passions in the amazing artwork she has on display at the Victoria Park Gallery in downtown Kincardine, for the month of June.

“The Art of Water and Reflection” features a “boating” theme, with mostly watercolour-and-ink paintings of sailboats on the water. She also has some pen-and-ink pieces, artisan-painted paddles, crafted sailboat sail bags, and driftwood art.

A dedicated artist and sailor, Chan has been a vibrant part of the Kincardine community since 2007. With more than 25 years of experience racing sailboats, her life is intricately intertwined with the water – its movement, its reflections, and the stories it tells.

Her summers are often spent navigating the waves, but when not sailing, her artistic passions take centre-stage.

This is Chan’s first show at the Victoria Park Gallery and she is thrilled to be among so many great artists.

“I’m honoured to have my work on display here,” she said. “This is such a great venue.”

Most of the paintings in this show take their inspiration from the dynamic interplay between boats and water, showcasing the vessels of the Kincardine Yacht Club. Through her work, viewers are invited to see the world from her perspective: the shimmering beauty of sunset hues on the lake, contrasted with the crisp lines of pen and ink of the boats docked at the marina.

Her painted paddles, adorned with scenes of local landscapes and iconic lighthouses, are beloved by residents and visitors, alike. These artistic pieces reflect her deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the Kincardine area.

One of Chan’s most innovative projects involves upcycled tote bags crafted from sailboat sails. Practical and stylish, these bags are perfect for beach outings and cottage life. By re-purposing materials associated with her time on the water, she creates objects that carry both a personal story and a broader message about environmental consciousness.

Her connection with the lake extends to her foraging practices as well. She transforms pieces of driftwood, found along the shores of Kincardine, into whimsical works of art that bring natural elements into everyday life.

Chan works for Bruce Power and has two children, ages 11 and 14.

Victoria Park Gallery is located inside the Kincardine Arts Centre in downtown Kincardine. For more information, check the Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/pg/victoriaparkgallerykincardine/posts.