Paint. Passion. Grand Prix.
Plein Air Painting with Men in Hats at Garry Point Park.
Discovery and Inspiration
Shortly after I moved back to Richmond three years ago, I often found time to wander around Steveston Village, reminiscing about the marine history and taking in the activity of fishing boats and tugs. One day in September, I stumbled upon the Grand Prix of Art, an event that would redefine my artistic journey. Seeing artists of all levels capturing the picturesque scenes of Steveston immediately drew me in.
That first year, I was a spectator, trying to make small talk with the artists, unaware of the ticking clock they were racing against. The experience left a mark on me, sparking a desire to compete and test my skills. I set a goal to participate, driven by an inner critic urging me to step out of my comfort zone. One of the things I'll never forget about that first race day I witnessed was how the light changed over the three hours. The light went from cloudy to sunny and back to overcast, making the challenge for the painters even harder. Anyone who started painting in one type of light had to either remember the light and try their hardest not to chase it. As a painter and photographer, that caught my attention and got my heart racing.
The Decision to Compete
Life got busy, and the thought of competing faded. Yet, the universe had plans. On a visit to Phoenix Art Supplies in Richmond, I noticed a poster for the Grand Prix of Art and met Mark Glavina, the passionate owner and race organizer. His dedication to art and the community was infectious, and I signed up for the mailing list.
2023 Grand Prix of Art poster
Preparation and Challenges
In early spring of 2023, an email arrived inviting me to enrol in the competition. Without hesitation, I signed up. Naively, I began painting en plein air every other day, immersing myself in the study of capturing still life outdoors. I quickly realized how fast three hours can fly by – the duration of the event.
A week before the big day, I attended a bootcamp hosted by Mark. The diversity and talent of the artists were astounding. Inspired by the personalized painting stations, I spent the following week building my own, understanding the importance of efficiency and preparation.
Mark Glavina’s valuable bootcamp pre-race, 2023, Finn Slough
Race Day Experience
Race day arrived, and on race day, we are told which station we will paint, with no way to prepare in advance. Locations range from the harbour huddled with marine vessels to Garry Point Park, where kites fly and dogs bark, and even downtown historic Steveston, where tourists shop and talk freely. My spot was set dead centre in Britannia Shipyard, with the band and event tables right behind me. It was a fantastic location looking out at the iconic SS Master and the Silver Ann, both watercraft’s carrying stories deep in history. At my paint station, I was alongside two other talented artists. The atmosphere was electric. The sun and clouds were swirling, casting a mixed array of light for painting. Not going to lie, I was timid, finicky, and slow to draw my composition, spending a little too much time. I even found myself erasing lines at one point. Then I overheard a lady say to her friend, "Wow, he sure has a long way to go." Despite my nervousness and perceptive ears, I painted with focus and determination, mindful of the ticking clock. Finishing on time, I quickly framed my piece and submitted it for judging.
Race day, fully immersed.
Reflections and Growth
After nearly three decades in advertising and design, the fine artist in me had almost been crushed. The Grand Prix of Art recharged my soul and rekindled the fire and passion I had nearly forgotten. Plein air painting became therapeutic, helping me break out of the conformities I faced as an agency Creative Director.
Since competing, my confidence has increased significantly. The community here is much stronger than any I’ve experienced in other art circles. The camaraderie and talent are exceptional, creating a potential haven for the next generation of artists. Just getting out and socializing with other artists has been a game-changer, especially in a post-Covid world.
I learned to follow my heart and paint for myself, not for anyone else. Too often in advertising, I create for the masses. Now, I paint only for me, without fear of others' opinions. This realization has made me much happier, and I believe it’s where many artists find true fulfilment.
Holding my framed art work just before submitting.
A Call to Join
One of this year’s bootcamps was held at Britannia Shipyard, where Mark did a fantastic demo painting of the dry docked ship Starliner. He also provided valuable pre-race knowledge, including a very useful preparation sheet titled "Five Hacks for Beating the Clock in the Grand Prix of Art."
I am proud to be volunteering with the Grand Prix this year as well as competing again. Race day is a week away, and my heart's still racing. This 14th Annual Grand Prix of Art will feature 150 artists racing against the clock in Steveston’s historic village. Enjoy live music from local musicians, vibrant community activities, and a celebration of creativity.
Join us in Richmond on July 27th and 28th for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor or an art fan, come and be part of this incredible event. Learn more and get involved at GrandPrixofArt.ca. Presented by the Travelling Brush, in partnership with the City of Richmond, Phoenix Art Supplies, and key community partners.
Have you ever participated in a similar event? Share your experiences in the comments below!
