Artist Maggie Warkentin stands in front of some of her many works of art at La Galleria, which is part of Whoop-Up Days in Lethbridge, August 24, 2022 (Photo: LNN)

By Drew Stremick

La Galleria at Whoop-Up Days showcases Southern Alberta artists

Aug 25, 2022 | 8:51 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – La Galleria is one of the new features at Whoop-Up Days this year.

It features a number of local artists from all around Southern Alberta, who are displaying their unique creations that are available for purchase.

La Galleria is a new attraction at Whoop-Up Days featuring local artists from around Alberta, August 24, 2022 (Photo: LNN)

One of the artists who has pieces on display is Maggie Warkentin.

Warkentin has been painting for 15 years now and over that time, she has gained experience with many different mediums, including water colours and acrylics. Warkentin said she draws inspiration from many sources.

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“Sometimes the inspiration goes, but really just taking trips to the mountains or visiting different parts of the country,” said Warkentin. “I try to retain a Western influence, and almost a Canadiana loop.”

Warkentin’s art consists primarily of landscapes that one would find around Southern Alberta, but what makes it unique is the almost stained glass-like appearance she imprints on them. Warkentin said her style allows her to showcase the rigidity of Alberta’s western slopes.

“It is unique,” Warkentin explained. “You can really capture the bends in the mountains. Mountains are straight, they don’t tend to be curved, so you can actually showcase all the sharp edges of the mountains better.”

Two of Maggie Warkentin’s pieces that show her stained glass style of painting, August 24, 2022 (Photo: LNN)

When asked what’s next for Warkentin, she said she intends to focus on continuing to grow as an artist.

“I really enjoy this, but I won’t say it’s a forever thing. I think constantly as you learn it, you evolve, and who knows what I’ll be painting five years from now,” laughed Warkentin. “But hopefully it’s growth, and not decrease growth in terms of talent and one learning and education.”

You can check out La Galleria, and all the other attractions at the 125th Whoop-Up Days until Saturday, August 27, 2022.

Artist Maggie Warkentin works on her next painting, August 24, 2022 (Photo: LNN)

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