I’ve had front row seats to Renee Wehring’s art practice since we bumped into each other on the first day of Art college. She is meticulous in her details and dynamic in her composition. The organic natural world informs her work and brings depth to her mark-making. One of the most important aspects of being an artist is looking and observing before creating, and Renee pays close attention to even the smallest creatures, particularly bees.
Living in the foothills of the dramatic Rocky Mountains in Calgary informs her sensitivity to the contrasts of light and dark, playful and moody, and abstract and realism. Her deep connection to the environment elevates her work from mere representation to a thoughtful, ecosystem-driven dialogue. In her hands, a delicate wing or a fleeting shadow becomes a profound exploration of balance and resilience. Renee doesn’t just capture the beauty of the natural world; she honours its intricate systems, masterfully translating the fleeting rhythms of nature into tangible, lasting impressions.
Through this deliberate and reverent approach, she challenges viewers to slow down and truly look, inviting us to find the immense wonder hidden within the smallest corners of our shared earth.
Renee’s love of nature is seen outside the studio as well, where she keeps bees and loves to garden. She is also an avid reader and lover of books, a fitness junkie who spends time in her home gym and enjoys long walks with dogs.
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What do you do?
Visual Artist, mainly working as a watercolour and oil painter and in drawing.
I would consider myself a modern naturalist. Making art that connects us to the natural world—bees, bugs, birds and sometimes an oddity here and there—are the main themes you’ll see in my work. Vintage, moody vibes and exploring the fragility and persistence of nature is what fuels my creativity.
I am also a pet portrait artist! I love painting pets; it’s a very rewarding experience, and I am always honoured when someone trusts me with such important work.
What are you currently working on?
I have two ongoing collections. One titled “The Circle,” which deals with themes of fragility in nature and issues with our environment. The second is titled “I’ll Tell the Bees,” which has ties to my love of bees and their contributions and importance to plant life and the natural world. I also just set up a mini gallery at a local beekeeping supply store here in Calgary called Worker & Hive.
Where can we find your work?
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Pinterest
