Originally from Ontario, now living in the Prairies, I miss having giant maple trees, oak trees and lush, leafy green-ness out my windows. Maybe that’s why I love the artwork of April Lacheur so much! Her fluid, colourful, graphic trees are immediately recognizable as her work. A self-taught artist, she also works part-time as a nurse, which I think is a lovely way to combine the best of both the sciences and artistic disciplines. April works mostly with acrylics, but often adds textural elements to her pieces including fabric or metal. Deriving inspiration from the natural world around her and from her travels, her pieces are bright and bold and, I think, reflect the joy she gets from painting.

One of her most popular pieces, "4 Seasons"

This piece, "Element Tree", includes copper and brass accents

Recently, April has been working on a series of “lofty” birds – long legged, fabulous birds that have so much personality and vibrancy. I love them!

The lofty canary, woodpecker, swallow and fantail!

One thing that I appreciate about April as an artist is her willingness to try new avenues for her artwork, and if you read C+H regularly, you know I love a good handound book! Yapes Paints and Victoria-based company “Those Great Little Books” have collaborated on a unique project. A one of a kind journal (could be used as a guest book, photo album or sketchbook too!) is created by Those Great Little Books, covered in canvas which April paints with an original painting! What a fabulous way to bring a little piece of original art into your life.

Handpainted journal collaboration with Those Great Little Books

April also works with Shi Studio, a Victoria-based contemporary jewellery design studio, to make some wonderfully bold and gorgeous wearable art using her images printed on canvas. A few of my favourites currently showcased on YapesPaints.com:

What a gorgeous accent piece!

Definitely a conversation piece!

April’s artwork will soon be featured in a solo show (“Roots and Feathers“) at Lüt Boutique in Vancouver, with a lovely grand opening event happening this Thursday (Feb 3, 6-9 pm). Her work will be on display from Feb 3 – April 30th, so if you’re in Vancouver be sure to stop in and see her original pieces in person.

To see more of her past, present and available for purchase works, visit Yapes Paints or check out her Facebook page or chat on Twitter.

Enjoy!
~Sarah