Raising kids is hard; many take a break from their jobs. Starting a business is hard; many don’t succeed. Lesley Russell succeeded at both at the same time. While I don’t know what compelled her to start two of the most stressful endeavours simultaneously, I think it might be innate. Lesley never shies away from difficulty; her endless compassion for others and her constant stream of creativity push her through it, and of course, years of knowledge and expertise help too.
Growing up in a working-class family in Kilmarnock, Scotland, Lesley is proud to be Scottish. It’s fundamental to her personality, perspective, and her art. Born Lesley Howie, she has always been incessantly creative. From her first ever purchase, a vinyl single of Golden Brown by The Stranglers at 11 (maybe a bit mature for her age), to starting a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dundee at 17.
Now, 30 years after receiving her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fine arts, a marriage, and one quick trip across the Atlantic, Lesley is still a creative powerhouse. Calling Canmore home for the past 25 years, Lesley’s growing portfolio of diverse public art has centred this mountain town that she fell in love with. Whether it’s a canoe that brings the community together or massive autumn leaves of wrought steel that reflect our remaining hope amidst a degrading environment.
A successful architecture studio, a master’s thesis on pigeons, a public art exhibition, a vinyl single, a charity art auction, it’s always been about the art and the people it’s made for. I’m thankful to be the child of an artist. I’m proud to be Lesley’s son.
-Written by Lanark Russell
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Which hood are you in?
I have the pleasure of living in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, in Canmore, after moving from Scotland over 25 years ago. My house is located on a very popular walking trail for locals and visitors, so I often ‘test run’ my sculptures and installations in my very public front yard.
What do you do?
I primarily love creating art that speaks to what makes us human, with themes of community, home and the passage of time. While also focusing on society’s broader social, political and environmental dynamics. The use of language in my work has taken me in incredible direction. I had the pleasure of working with Mini Thni First Nation elders over Covid, creating the first piece of public art in the Bow Valley to include their language, Avens (past, present, future).
For me, the power of art lies in the ability to make abstract concepts tangible, whether I’m using steel, a canoe or whatever feels right; the important thing is my connection with other humans.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m working on a few different projects. I am particularly excited about a ‘top secret’ large Public Art sculpture that is in its infancy. I’ve been completely consumed working on a concept, but am loving where it’s taking me. I’ve also been enjoying working to create a new gallery installation that explores a more personal side to my work, with the working title “Fragile Borders.”
Where can we find your work?
When it comes to Public Art, you can visit ‘Motivation’ located next to the Bill Warren Training Centre at Canmore Nordic Provincial Park.
Avens (past, present, future) can be found on the Cougar Creek walking trail, next to the pedestrian bridge in Canmore.
I also have many private commissions you can spot around the Bow Valley, Calgary and beyond. However, if you find yourself in Scotland, be sure to visit Dundee‘s Agacan restaurant. An incredible place that champions artists and makes a fine kebab. I had the honour of painting the interior vestibule, a long time ago, my first public piece.
My gallery work can be found at the beautiful new Elevation Gallery in Canmore and Fernie.
