Art Gallery Kimberley will be hosting visiting artist Petra Hekkenberg for a book signing on Saturday, March 22 and a creative illustrating workshop on Sunday, March 23.
Based out of New Denver in the West Kootenay, Hekkenberg's love of nature first drew her to that area in 2025, where she currently works as a freelance designer and artist, while also working part-time as a hut keeper at Kokanee Glacier Cabin.
In 2021, her passion for the natural beauty surrounding her compelled her to start a daily practice of illustrative journaling. This ultimately resulted with her self publishing what she created as "In the Alpine." She followed this up in 2024 with "Further in the Alpine."
"Everyday I draw and write something that stands out for me," she said. "It is incredible how it made me open my eyes wider and live more consciously in the moment. I started hunting all day for the beauty in things, wanting to draw and share it. I even find myself doing this in my daily life outside of the park now!"
Hekkenberg's passion for runs deep. At 10, she was already in adult drawing classes. She decided to achieve her Bachelor of Design at Design Academy Eindhoven, one of the world's top design schools. here she learned about conceptual thinking, storytelling and personal development, utilizing a wide range of materials.
Though design hasn't been the focal point of her career, Hekkenberg has employed it to work on public space and community project designs, including the construction of numerous playgrounds in Namibia.
The illustrating workshop on March 23 runs from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It is intended for participants 12 and up, and any skill level is welcome. The cost is $25 and includes all the needed materials. Hekkenberg will take everyone through her drawing principles of proportions and cover how she does shadows and textures in black pen.
Through the workshop, she will also discuss how her daily illustrated journaling practice has enriched her life.
Participants are encourage to bring an image, either printed off or saved on their phone, to use for the final drawing. This can be anything from a beloved pet, landscape or building, to be captured on paper. If you don't bring an image, there will be sample images available as well.
While Art Gallery Kimberley will have all the materials you need on hand, if you'd like to bring some of your own art supplies you are welcome to as well.
Space for the workshop is limited, so early registration is encouraged. To reserve your spot, or request further information, you can contact info@artgallerykimberley.com
Learn more by visiting petrahekkenberg.com and following her on Instagram @petrahekkenberg or Facebook @petra.hekkenberg
