Janessa Reimer is an artist based in the town of Claresholm, a small town in Alberta, just a short drive from Calgary. She is originally from the prairies of Manitoba but relocated with her husband ten years ago to be closer to the Rockies, where she draws inspiration for her vibrant, imaginative, and inspiring artwork.
Her creative journey began in 2020, shortly after becoming a new mother and experiencing severe postpartum depression. She turned to painting as a therapeutic escape, joining virtual paint nights and experimenting with acrylics. What started as a mental-health practice quickly blossomed into a passion. Janessa’s art captures the magic of nature alongside the whimsy of fantasy, and her love for both reading and the outdoors shines through every painting.
In 2024, she officially licensed her work with multiple fantasy authors, allowing her to share her work in the form of prints, stickers, bookmarks, and pins that visualize the worlds she reads about. Today, Janessa balances her role as a Volunteer Coordinator with Alberta Health Services while nurturing her artistic practice, connecting with fellow book lovers, parenting her wonderful young son, and connecting with other nature lovers.
Janessa’s journey to art is an inspiration and showcases her incredible spirit, dedication, and wonderful soul.
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Which “hood” are you in?
I live in Claresholm, AB, a small town about an hour south of Calgary. I love the slower pace, quiet evenings, and the beautiful views of the foothills—and even some mountain peaks further back. It is a very kind, welcoming community!
What do you do?
I work part-time as a Volunteer Coordinator with AHS in a long-term care Home. I enjoy interacting with the residents and creating programs that bring joy to their day. My husband and I also own a pharmacy in Fort Macleod—he’s a pharmacist and I help out with some bookkeeping. On my days off, I make time to create—either sketching, learning Procreate, or painting with acrylics. I love creating pieces inspired by the nature around me and scenes from the fantasy books I read.
What are you currently working on?
I have a few projects on the go right now. I’m working on illustrations for a children’s book using acrylic paints combined with Procreate. I also have a commission where I was asked to read a specific fantasy book and paint a scene inspired by it. In addition, I’m creating a landscape piece to donate to a silent auction to help raise funds for my community.
Where can we find your art?
I’m currently working on a website, but it’s not up and running yet. In the meantime, you can find me and my art on Instagram. I’m also featured on The Gallery George online art gallery, based in Vancouver, BC.
