SASKATOON — Visual artist Amber Bryans has carved a unique niche in the local art scene. She blends her love for nature with printmaking and painting. Her artistic journey and inspirations are forged with her connections within the community.
Her career began after she completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art in 2009, focusing on painting and darkroom photography. She spent 10 years nurturing her creative side, primarily for personal fulfillment.
“It was a bit of a stop-and-start journey, but in 2020, I discovered linocut printmaking, and soon enough, I had more prints than I knew what to do with! That’s when I decided to share my work with the world,” said Bryans in an email to SaskToday.
Like many individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, the lockdown allowed her to reevaluate her artistic side. She seized the opportunity to develop her art professionally, building a cohesive body of work with her paintings and prints.
“Once things settled down post-pandemic, I was able to connect with the Saskatoon arts community, and it has been incredibly supportive,” she says, highlighting how these connections have been vital for her growth as an emerging artist,” said Bryans.
Bryans added joining local festivals, especially during summer, like the Saskatoon Fringe Festival, is about more than just selling artworks by artists like her.
“These events are a platform for building connections. It’s less about immediate sales and more about establishing relationships with potential collectors and fellow artists,” said Bryans.
When life post-pandemic returned to normal, and restrictions eased, the Fringe returned in 2021. There, she met fellow visual artist Jinglu Zhao, with whom she quickly became friends.
“We bonded over our experiences as artists and mothers, navigating life across cultures. That day was a turning point for both of us,” said Bryans, who draws inspiration from Saskatchewan’s landscapes and wildlife, describing her creative process as solitary.
“Birds feature prominently in my work; they symbolize freedom and resilience. They can soar through the sky, navigating their journeys without maps or baggage. I usually work alone in my studio, immersing myself in my art. Summer is for outdoor sketching with watercolours, while winter is when I dive into more complex pieces,” she says.
Bryans often uses landscapes, capturing moments from memory. Despite her preference for working independently, she still values the community aspect of being an artist. The Saskatchewan Printmakers, in particular, allowed her to exhibit her works and other collaborative experiences.
Though she occasionally accepts commissions, Bryans said she stays true to her style and credits her family’s creative legacy with part of her journey as an artist.
“I take on commissions if they align with my existing work, but I primarily focus on creating pieces that resonate with me. While no one person inspired me to pursue art, my family always supported my creative endeavours, whether in visual arts, music, or performance,” said Bryans.
She also encourages young artists to explore their talents despite feeling she still has much to learn.
“I still feel like I’m just starting myself, but the best advice I can give is to create what you love. Keep honing your craft and build relationships in the art community. Those connections can open doors to new opportunities,” Bryans ended.
