Creativity Runs in the Family - Celebrating Artistic Legacies in Fernie
Jodie, Jeanne and Avery: three Generations of Makers and Creatives at the Fernie Arts Coop.
Family and art go hand in hand - both are built on love, tradition, and a shared sense of belonging.
At the Fernie Arts Co-op, we’re fortunate to witness the magic that happens when creativity is passed down through generations.
In the spirit of the Family Day this week, we shine a spotlight on three incredible families whose artistic legacies continue to inspire and enrich our community.
Three Generations of Fibre Art: Jeanne, Jodie & Avery
Jeanne, Jodie, and Avery represent three generations of artists who have all called Fernie home. Their love for fiber art is woven into their family history, with Jeanne and Jodie repurposing pre-loved wool sweaters into cozy winter wear, whimsical stuffed animals, and cherished memory mittens. Avery, inspired by her family's creativity, has developed her own artistic path, crafting intricate and one-of-a-kind string art. The tradition of making art together continues, with Jodie raising her children near her parents and Avery always finding inspiration (and supplies) in grandma’s sewing stash.
A Mother-Daughter Duo: Annica & Tyra Collombin
For Annica and Tyra Collombin, art is deeply intertwined with their love of nature and the outdoors. Originally from Sweden, Annica has spent the past 30 years in Canada, using local and recycled wood as the base for her artwork, which she finishes with intricate carving and painting. Tyra, following in her mother’s creative footsteps, has explored traditional art forms such as photography, acrylic painting, and sketching. With a background in digital design, she now blends traditional and digital media, continuing to grow as an artist through her personal brand. Whether on the ski hill or in the studio, this mother-daughter duo thrives in creative expression.
Art Across Generations: Ilona Webster & Sharlene Czeh
Ilona Webster has been a pillar of the Fernie Arts Co-op since the early 2000s, showcasing her versatility in jewelry making, mosaic glasswork, painting, sewing, and pressed flower art. Her daughter-in-law, Sharlene Czeh, has carried on the artistic torch, developing her skills in jewelry-making since 2009 and painting since 2013. From her first jewelry class to mastering metalwork, Sharlene has continuously evolved her craft, embracing creativity as her lifelong passion. Their shared love for the arts makes them an integral part of the Fernie artistic community.
Honoring Family & Art
These families exemplify the beauty of passing down creative traditions while forging their own unique artistic paths.
This week, along with Family Day, we celebrate the connections that fuel creativity and the artists who make Fernie a hub of artistic inspiration.
Visit the Fernie Arts Co-op to explore their work and experience the artistry that runs in the family!
