As part of the township’s program of displaying art within the council gallery, Centre Wellington councillors had the chance to learn about local artist Stephen Cole.
He was introduced by Beverley Cairns at the June 25 council session.
A graphic designer by trade, Cole came to Fergus to live and quickly jumped in to working with the arts council Cairns said.
Born in Wales and raised in Kincardine, Cole began painting in high school.
Earning a diploma in graphic design through Sheridan College, Cole developed a successful career as a designer in the Toronto area.
Although graphic design is his career Cole never stopped painting. Expressing thoughts and experiences, he travels the world and brings back inspiration from locales such as Africa, Peru, Thailand, Morocco, Cuba and Ireland.
Cole said likes to create a sense of dimension and depth to his paintings, inviting the viewer to enter and explore.
Aside from his work with the local arts council, Cole worked witht the Fergus Scottish Festival with its logo and materials redesign.
He is also working with the Fergus BIA on a number of projects. His choice of acrylic medium allows him to explore different techniques from soft washes to harsh brush strokes.
His paintings are built like a stage, starting from the background and working up to the main players in the scene. He constantly strives to improve his technique while exploring a range of subjects.
“Painting is a life long pursuit that doesn’t have a conclusion only new paths to explore.”
Mayor Kelly Linton said he loved the work Cole had done with the festival and creation of the various characters.
