Riverview Artists

Lisa MacKinnon

Lisa MacKinnon is a native Calgarian, born here in 1966.  Lisa still makes her home in the city along with her husband, two children and a small menagerie of pets.  Lisa attended the University of Calgary receiving a Business degree with a minor in fine art.

Lisa draws on her family and friends for inspiration for her watercolors as well as the beauty, character and people of Southern Alberta.  Her western themes are also influenced by the energy and the vitality of the annual Calgary Stampede.

Painting was a new adventure when she was given watercolor classes for a Christmas gift from her husband and children.  Lisa learned many new techniques and found out what kind of subjects inspired her to paint.  She continues to develop her watercolor technique and is venturing into acrylics when time permits. She has always loved to take photographs of her surroundings and now can use her photographs as inspiration for the pictures she paints.  Many days during the stampede are spent taking photos at the various events that Calgary holds for ten days of the year.

“The use of my own photographs makes it possible for me to get the great detail I enjoy painting; as shown in that small fold of fabric, texture of leather cowboy boots, or the detail of a favorite pet.”

Her paintings of sports including ringette and hockey have been purchased for fundraisers, coach’s gifts and special mementos for the athletes; and at times recognizing themselves in the picture. She has done commissions for her clients of some of these great athletes in action. Lisa reproduces her paintings into art cards and prints so they will be available for all to enjoy.

e-mail Lisa MacKinnon