Art Station brings Paint in the Park series to Fernie

Artists enjoyed a step-by-step painting session with Rozzy Hibbard

Art Station brings Paint in the Park series to Fernie Published 9:54 am Thursday, July 16, 2026 The Fernie Arts Station and local artist Rozzy Hibbard have collaborated to bring the Paint in the Park series to Annex Park this summer. Artists of all skill levels were invited to a relaxing evening with a step-by-step guided painting session on Tuesday, July 14, the first of four summer sessions led by Hibbard. Tuesday’s theme was inspired by Yukon-based artist Ted Harrison, known for his vivid use of colours and smooth curves to sculpt landscapes representing the vast country of Canada.

Artists were provided with a curated canvas featuring the Elk River and the mountains that encompass Fernie while also paying tribute to Harrison’s work. Hibbard and her husband moved to Canada in 2017 and shifted between Fernie and Vancouver Island, before finally making the Elk Valley their permanent home in 2023. The move allowed her to focus full-time on her artwork and teaching in the community.

She is actively involved with the Fernie Arts Station, leading the popular Paint & Sip events throughout various times of the year while also teaching children’s art programs. Her work was featured in an exhibition at the Arts Station in 2025. Tuesday was her first teaching session since the couple gave birth to their first child four months ago.

Hibbard spoke about what it meant to finally realize her dream of making art her full-time vocation while still utilizing her teaching background. “My creativity was very dormant for many years being a teacher, but also teaching is in my bones. And so, it is this beautiful way of combining two things I love, which are teaching and art,” said Hibbard.

She emphasized the importance of adults realizing their artistic potential. “I just love the space that it provides because lots of adults don’t get a lot of time to be creative and to explore their creative side because were very practical and busy. But creativity is part of our heritage, it’s part of our makeup,” added Hibbard.

“Every time I teach, and I see how people can relax and get out of their comfort zone but in a safe way, it’s very rewarding. I love how much people enjoy it by the end of it and they are always so glad they came.” The sentiment was shared by those in attendance for the opening summer session, including Fernie local Liz Fradgley.

“It’s one of the most magical ways to spend an evening in Fernie. It’s absolutely lovely. Rozzy is so gentle and kind with the way that she teaches you to do something completely unexpected,” said Fladgley.

The next edition of Paint in the Park is scheduled for Tuesday, July 28th , with the final two sessions planned for August 11th and 18th . People are encouraged to register ahead of time as space is limited.