“A Day in the Life” with: Calgary Artist Dawnelle Salant

April 2, 2025 Bronwyn Bronwyn Lewis Arts, Photography

Dawnelle Salant is an award-winning photographer, educator, and passionate traveller whose work blends the beauty of the world with the stories of the places she has explored. After earning her degree in Education, Dawnelle pursued a career teaching overseas that allowed her to combine her love for both travel and teaching.

Her work and travels have taken her to 54 countries (so far) – from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the tranquil landscapes of Iceland, often documenting her journeys through breathtaking imagery. While living overseas, Dawnelle was a regular contributor to several online magazines where she shared both photos and stories of her adventures – from swimming with whale sharks to climbing volcanoes. When not teaching or travelling, Dawnelle can usually be found searching for birds to photograph – usually owls! Her passion for both art and life continues to inspire those around her.

Dawnelle currently works at Monsignor J. S. Smith School as a Diverse Learning Teacher, where she runs a photography club for Jr. High Students, guiding them in both the technical and creative aspects of the craft. She loves to encourage students to explore the world through their lenses and help them develop their passion.

Dawnelle Salant
I went to Iceland last summer to celebrate my 50th birthday. I was part of a photography group that shot late into the night to catch the best light – but it was worth it to see waterfalls like this one!
Dawnelle Salant
Gentoo penguins gather on a rocky outcrop in front of a striking backdrop in Antarctica. This trip was one of the highlights of my life!
The Northern Lights performing over the Erratic Rock in Okotoks last October.
Two Atlantic Puffins strike a pose on a cliff in Iceland under the midnight sun after returning from the sea. Puffins are one of my favourite birds to photograph – they are so cute and awkward!
A Lesser Violetear Hummingbird sits atop a perfectly placed flower in Costa Rica. This photo placed 9th in the International Imaging Competition for Canada last year.
I love sharing my passion for photography with my students – it always surprises me how creative kids can get with just a cell phone!
Dawnelle Salant
I know how blessed I am to live so close to Banff National Park and I try to get out to the mountains as often as I can – always with my camera!
Dawnelle Salant
Most weekends, I head out of the city and into nature, always hoping we will find wildlife, but enjoying scenery like this even if we don’t. On this day, we actually found a Barred Owl – which was a Lifer for me! For non-birders, a Lifer is a bird you have never seen before, and it’s a big deal!

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Which ’hood are you in?

I live in McKenzie Towne and love the convenience of having so many amenities within walking distance. I spent three years living in England so I feel very much at home in a community that is centered around a High Street!

What do you do?

I am a Diverse Learning Coordinating Teacher at Monsignor J.S. Smith School in Douglasdale. I work with students in grades K-9, organize supports for diverse learners and do a lot of paperwork! I run a photography club for Jr. High and am in charge of our Instagram account.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently on a mission to find 3 tiny owls that have eluded me for years – the Northern Pygmy Owl, the Boreal Owl and the Northern Saw-whet Owl. All three are on my Bird Photography Bucket List! I am always in the middle of planning another trip to explore new lands and photograph wildlife.

Where can we find your work?

You can find my work on my website, Instagram and TikTok.

I will be selling my work at the Beacon Original Art show at the Bridgeland Riverside Community Association on Sunday, April 27th.

 

About Bronwyn Bronwyn Lewis 3 Articles
Bronwyn Lewis is a food writer for the Vancouver Guardian. She’s also a screenwriter and producer. Born and raised in Vancouver, Bronwyn lives in Mount Pleasant and you can follow all her food adventures on Instagram.

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