2020 Ornament

Inspiration for the Painting:

Part of our traditions from years ago was the excitement of finding the perfect tree.  Before pre-lit artificial trees and farm-grown trees were popular, many of us ventured out into the woods in seek of the perfect Christmas tree… some still do.

As Newfoundlanders, we have the blessing to go to just about any wooded area to cut our own Christmas tree. Many people living in other areas have never experienced the joy of tracking through the woods, shaking the snow from the branches to get a good look at it, cutting it down to load aboard the truck, and claiming it as the perfect focal point of the living room during the holidays.

This painting is a representation of exactly that… The joy of heading home with the perfect Christmas tree in tow and the excitement of decorating it to see if you have outdone last year’s tree.

This scene is a representation of a nearby local coastal community of Dildo, of which I am quite fond. This scene can really translate to any coastal community in Newfoundland. It brings a sense of nostalgia of days gone by.

About the Artist

Kelly McEntegart-Sheppard is a self-taught artist born and raised in Blaketown, Newfoundland where her studio is today. She lives there with her husband, Larry, and two children, Kelsey, Logan, and their dog Skippy.

She started painting as a hobby at the age of fourteen and now makes it her career. Along with creating new pieces, Kelly continually contributes to the Arts in education. She has been developing and teaching art projects to elementary students for the past seven years.

Her works are repeatedly noted to create nostalgic emotions. As clearly seen in her work, she gets her inspiration from the little things in life that mean the most. Among these are her love of animals, the detail and beauty in nature, along with her love for the innocence of the children in her life, particularly her own son and daughter. Christmas Skates”.

Kelly was featured under Artist Profile in “Collectibles Canada” magazine. Kelly has been nominated for awards in the arts on both a provincial and a national level. To see more of her works please view her website at www.kmacart.com

Emergency Contacts
RCMP: 466-3211
Fire Department: 466-7777
Ambulance: 466-3468
Hospital: 466-3411
Poison Control: 1-800-722-1110
Mental Health Crisis: 1-888-737-4668

Photography by Paul Tilley.