Linda O'Connor

My life is filled with love and laughter thanks to the amazing people I meet. As well as being awesome, they’re creative, talented, and generous! I thought you might like to meet them, so I’ve asked them to come and give us a behind-the-scenes look at what they’re passionate about. I have to warn you though – creativity is contagious!

My guest today is talented artist Rodney Holbrook. Growing up, I remember a beautiful painting of a rose hanging on the wall – a gift to my parents from Rodney. I thought it was a wedding gift, a really lovely memento of their special day!

Rodney, when did you start to paint? R: I started to take instruction in high school in the U.K. but I’m basically self-taught.

That takes patience and experimentation! What do you like to paint and what media do you use? R: I enjoy painting a variety of subjects, currently in watercolour as it is more convenient when getting together with a group to paint.

Watercolours are my favourite. I love the whimsical feel of them. Do you show your work or have it on display for sale? R: Occasionally our small “Art Group”, all of whom are retirees in our retirement community, have exhibited our work at the local Art Centre.  Some of our members offer for sale, but I don’t. Some of us have donated art to raise money for the local hospital or cancer research, etc.

That’s very generous of you. Have you had any funny or heartwarming moments to share from your painting? R: A good friend of ours, also an experienced artist, has complimented my work on occasion, which thrilled me.

Oh very cool! He’s designed quite a few Canadian coins and stamps. Wow! Do you have any tips for aspiring artists? R: Learn to draw first of all, and in particular, study perspective as it is so important.

Great advice – I’m sure it takes a lot of practice to get that right. If you had to pick a song to be your theme song, what would it be? R: When I look at Kathryn many love songs go through my mind, can’t choose one in particular.

That’s very sweet. What superpower do you admire? R: God

The highest of superpowers! What’s your favourite dessert? R: Every night for dessert Kathryn makes a mixed fresh fruit cocktail with frozen yogurt, fruit yogurt and maple syrup.  Leftovers go on the morning cereal.

Delicious and twice the treat! Thank you so much for sharing your art with us. I love your paintings, and I really admire you for using them to raise money for charity. Truly, a labour of love. 😀