Tanya is furthering her art education this summer in San Diego, California. She has scheduled a core curriculum of classical and traditional studies at an atelier modeled after the studio ateliers of nineteenth century Europe. Her intentions are to build a stronger foundation of time-honoured skills, put into practice her solid work ethic, and develop a clear focus of purpose.

The Federation of Canadian Artists annual Board of Governors’ meeting and signature jury took place on March 15, 2009. The jury process entailed 51 applicants being reviewed by a Board of Governors’ jury of 25 Senior Signature members. Out of the 51 applicants the jury elected five SFCA Signature status members, and eight AFCA Signature status members. Tanya received her AFCA Signature status with a majority vote of 20/24. The following is an excerpt from the art avenue magazine, May/June 2009 Issue:

“My journey towards AFCA status has been inextricably connected with my personal life choices, influences, and artistic growth. It’s been about commitment, creativity, work habits, training and spirituality. The most significant part of this journey was realizing the joy and fulfilment that painting brings to my life. While traveling this road with my instructors and fellow-artist friends, and as my painting skills developed and began to appear on my canvas, I became aware that the process of learning itself indeed is the goal. I am honoured to receive this designation, and it’s with sincere gratitude I thank the SFCA Board of Governors’ jury”.

Juror Mike Svob SFCA selected 64 paintings out of hundreds of entries received from across North America into the Northwest Watercolor Society 69th Annual Open Exhibition. He stated that the basics he rates against other entries are overall design, composition, an unusual ability in drawing technique or style and a new direction or look. Not only was Tanya one of the five Canadians juried into this prestigious National Show, she was also presented with the Golden Artist Award at the Exhibition’s Opening and Awards Ceremony held in Seattle, WA on April 30, 2009 for her entry Bequeath.

The City of Richmond extends an open invitation to enjoy the City’s culture and heritage at this annual event. The 2009 Doors Open Richmond was indeed a unique opportunity and sales success for Tanya. She was one of seventeen artists featured at the Richmond Artist Guilds’ Exhibit located in the Minoru Sports Pavilion.