Lumby’s Village Gallery is about to get a European look when its walls are covered by the paintings of Amber Kusmer.
Kusmer is the gallery’s artist of the month for April and has lived in the Lumby area for 10 years.
“She has been a staunch contributor to the Lumby Arts Co-op, which runs the Village Gallery, with administration and as an exhibitor,” said co-op member Nina Westaway.
Kusmer is fascinated with architecture and her travels in Europe have provided her inspiration for paintings that explore the old architecture and the people of Italy, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic and Spain. She also loves modern city-scapes from all parts of the globe and enjoys painting them from photos provided by family and friends.
“Amber likes to explore a variety of subjects, styles and techniques. She confirms that she is mostly an abstract realist,” said Westaway.
Although Kusmer doesn’t have academic training, her father was an oil painter and draftsman who taught her the basics. She also made pottery before discovering her enthusiasm for painting in acrylics. She continues to take classes and workshops to expand her knowledge.
Kusmer has participated in Lumby’s Artistic Connections under the direction of Lou Hammond and Robin LeDrew. She recently took a workshop with Kim Smith and has adapted a new technique to her style and subject matter.
Kusmer is also a member of the Okanagan Artists of Canada and has exhibited at the OAC’s Paddlewheel Art Show.