The Alex Dufresne Gallery is proud to present Reflections of Nature: An Exhibition by Heather Wallingford, a special exhibition showcasing the art of beloved North Bay artist Heather Wallingford. The show opens on Friday October 3rd from 6:00 – 8:00pm at the Alex Dufresne Gallery, located at 107 Lansdowne St. E. in Callander (please note that it will be Friday night not Saturday afternoon like our usual receptions).
Heather passed away on August 11th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and inspiration that deeply touched the Northern Ontario art community. Her ability to capture the light, colours and rhythms of the natural world reflected the profound connection to the landscapes she loved.
Reflections of Nature will feature a collection of her works that invite visitors to experience the beauty of Northern Ontario through her eyes and reflect on the way her art continues to inspire.
The following was written by Heather when asked about her artwork and how she came to start painting:
“I have always loved to do things with my hands but I came to painting a bit late. When I was working, and in my 60’s, I joined a folkart painting group that met every week. Everyone did the same painting that we actually traced on the wood and the teacher told us exactly what colour to use and how to paint the project. Everyone’s was the same and they all looked pretty good. This was exactly the creative social outlet that I needed at the time as my job was quite challenging.
When I retired at 67 I got bored with folkart and about the same time that I spent a day oil painting. I was hooked and on my way. I’m happiest on the days that I paint something. It can be as simple as a gift card. Fortunately the North Bay Callander area is really supportive of the local artists so there is usually an outlet for my work
I only oil paint in the summer so this show has been a few years in the making. It has been a great motivator for me. In the winter I paint landscapes with acrylics and teach courses for beginners.
This show is a reflection of my love of landscapes and flowers. I hope that you will come and enjoy the show and maybe take one home or give one as a gift.”
“Heather’s art encourages us to slow down, to see beauty in nature, and to reflect on the landscapes that define Northern Ontario,” says Curator Natasha Wiatr. “This exhibition is both a celebration of her talent and a way for the community to honour her lasting impact.”
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