BIO and CV

Sharon Bamber is a committed plein-air artist, currently living and working in one of the wilder parts of British Columbia. Her background in zoology and landscape architecture at degree and postgraduate level has strongly influenced the direction of her art, and she ‘slow travels’ extensively to capture the stories of vulnerable species, places and individuals.

Most recently, she has completed a 1000-mile walking and painting pilgrimage across France and Spain to Santiago de Compostela, painting every 5 miles along the journey to create a body of work that celebrates a ‘Sense of Place’ and our historic connection to the landscape.

“Going out into the field and focusing on specific projects results not only in beautiful paintings, but in an alternative approach to communicating entire conservation and protection campaigns. Science is currently dealing with huge issues that seem overwhelming and disconnected with everyday life. My work acts as a bridge, communicating these stories in ways that resonate at a more emotional and human scale”.

Sharon is an expert pastel artist, showing sensitivity and dexterity in her handling of light and colour to create images of timeless poignancy and beauty. A Signature Member of the Artists for Conservation, she seeks to engage people with art that speaks of the wonder and fragility of our Earth, focusing on positive messaging to galvanize action.

“I can’t remember a time when I haven’t felt a profound connection with animals and nature. Through my art, I maintain and celebrate that connection, whether it’s by undertaking an expedition, a project commission or by painting outdoors where I live. Being outside and painting is simply what I love, what energizes and sustains me, and I would hope everyone could experience and value that too”.

Sharon has exhibited widely in Canada and USA and has won numerous awards in international competitions. Her paintings can be found in private and corporate collections in Canada, USA, UK, France, Korea and Australia.