March 14-17, 2013
Edmonton Expo Centre • Northlands
Western Canada’s BIGGEST Outdoor Show!

Artisan's Way

Located in HALL B

Don Kesler: Wildlife Photographer

“An avid outdoorsmen, Don calls Calgary, Alberta home when he is not hiking, climbing and exploring the Rocky Mountains. Over the past 25 years, Don’s passion for nature and photography continue to provide insight and enthusiasm in his work. His experience and strong commitment to capture authentic photographs are evident in all of his images. Don’s appreciation for nature and wildlife is shared with his best friend and wife Sarah.”

Gail Adams: Wildlife Artist

"Gail was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta. She began her art training at age seven from a prominent Alberta artist. Being exposed to art at such an early age allowed Gail to experience many different mediums. Throughout the years Gail has worked with many different organizations to help raise funds to go towards special projects. One of the main projects was for Glenn County Sheriff’s Junior Search and Rescue in Orlando donating not only time but finds to go towards purchasing uniforms. Today Gail proudly has a successful art school; “Gail Adams School of Art”. Gail with her two assistant art teachers still demonstrate the same commitment and dedication of exposing over 250 students to the true appreciation and love of art.

Mya De Ryan: Fish Rubber- Japanese “Gyotaku” Style Artist

“Mya DeRyan is one of a precious few professional practitioners of the ancient Japanese art form of Gyotaku. Literally translated Gyotaku means "fish rubbing".

Through years of experimentation and self exploration Mya has developed innovative techniques and media that allow her to pull intricate detail from her subjects, while retaining the artistic expression that puts her work at the forefront of Gyotaku artistry.

With works hanging on the walls of fine art collectors world wide, and private commissions of their own trophy fish hanging on the walls of sportfishermen, Mya's work has transcended the boundaries of traditional art. It serves not only as expressive and intricately crafted fine art, but as Gyotaku was first intended so long ago, documentary artwork of a fisherman's trophy. Some have called it a "wife approved" alternative to taxidermy.”