Hi! I'm Holly McWilliams!

I am a multi-medium, artist and educator based out of Calgary, Alberta. I am primarily a painter and have collections in watercolour, acrylic, oil, and mixed media.

My work has dramatic lighting, moody atmospheres, bold brushwork, and vivid colours. I have many bodies of work in a variety of collections that range from figures, urban and rural landscapes, ravens, and my magical collection of the 'Dreamscape Series'.

My formal art training was at ACAD (now Alberta University of the Arts) in the mid 90’s where I majored in sculpture. I have always been a painter and after art school, I went back to my roots and created a career in the arts.

Since 2000, I have been a professional artist, an art educator and have developed an extensive number of classes, workshops and programs geared to the beginner artist, all the way to advanced professionals. To date, I have successfully taught thousands of people how to hone their artistic skills and express their unique inner artist.

My lifelong passion is for painting and creating art. The wisdom I learn through my personal work I pass down to encourage and empower others. I have the ability to lead and inspire others in a seemingly effortless way that builds confidence and a contagious inspiration in my students.

My teaching methods are extremely practical and personalized, demonstrating extensive knowledge in nearly every 2D medium. Beyond being a fantastic instructor, I also encourage artistic development through personal growth. My classes are not only educational, but also extremely therapeutic in a way, which facilitates artistic exploration and innovation.

My style of teaching portrays my total love and devotion to art, which I hope to pass on to my students. I have been a consistent, strong, positive influence on the many people who have crossed my path over the last two decades I have been an educator. I can communicate complicated ideas and concepts in a very easy to understand way. I am kind, funny, professional, and consistent. I know how each individual learns and teach accordingly. I am forthright and direct while being considerate which fosters a classroom environment that is supportive, encouraging, and empowering.

I officially started my company, Indigo Arts, back in 2005 with the goal to educate, inspire and make ART.

I have paintings in several collections, both corporate and private, in Canada, USA and Europe. I am currently represented by three art galleries: Aven's Gallery, Lineham House and Dark Arts.

Mastering Colour Mixing - The Double Primary Method