Painting to The Beat of Her Own Drum

Megan Weir – Painter, Rancher & Mom.

By KIRK PRESCOTT BAR XP PHOTO

With an eye for composition and a love of both art and agriculture, Megan Weir, a self-taught painter, fuels her artistic passion with music, bold colours, and a vibrant approach to fineart. Weir, age 37 and a sixth-generation rancher, adorns canvases beautifully, in her home-studio near Manyberries, Alberta. Surprising to some, Weir’s spacious laundry-room doubles as her “art-studio,” for now. Here, the collage of colour that decorates most every surface speaks to her vibrant style and jovial process. Between wrangling three children and ranching with her family, Weir expresses her love of animals and ranch-life in unique, eye- catching masterpieces. In true western style, her family brand completes her artist signature and validates the authenticity of each creation.

Weir entered the painting craft using acrylics as her primary medium and later transitioned to the use of oil paints. Her process is simple – get into the groove and make magic happen! Music pumping, two brushes in hand, Weir starts each piece with enthusiasm and energetic interaction. Weir begins with a grid-based sketch and brings each piece to life as she masterfully adds hand mixed paints to the carefully prepped canvas.

While many pieces are developed from Weir’s personal collection of inspiration, custom creations are equally significant in her repertoire. The artist approaches each creation with dedication, determination and diversity. A quick visit to Weir’s social networks, Instagram and Facebook reveals works in progress, completed masterpieces and career milestones. Her self-titled website is affiliated with The Art Storefronts Organization. This union ensures that you can shop with confidence, knowing that Weir stands behind the quality and value of her products. As Weir’s collection of completed work continues to grow, several hold a special place in her heart. Enjoy, as Weir shares a brief description of her favourite pieces:

A Dream That Was 60”x48”

WEIR

“A bold and beautiful piece, inspired by several images and memorable interactions. This piece represents a conversation that I had with a Cree man, about the importance of the magnificent bison, detailing how his ancestor’s survival was dependent upon them. They were a major source of food, clothing, and shelter for his people. The title of this piece is inspired by a dream he shared.”

Cool Cats 48”x24”

WEIR

“Inspired by AQHA Metallic Cat reference photos, this painting originally showcased roan horses. Organically, it turned into a bay and a palomino, with subtle, vibrant colours. I used loose and expressive brush strokes to complete this piece. The original painting was sold and shipped to Australia.”

Velasquez 30”x40”

WEIR

“This unique piece honours a favourite bull of Belvin Angus. Velasquez, a Black Angus sire, is quite well known. Our own herd even contains his genetics. I loved the evolution of this painting. I navigated maroons and neutral blues while having it read ‘black’ to the viewer. This painting was auctioned in Moncton, New Brunswick via the Canadian Angus Foundation. It currently resides in the CEO’s office of the Canadian Angus Association.”

Tight Rope On a Loose Line 40”x30”

WEIR

“This piece originates from a photo that my mother took of my father at our branding. The painting depicts, what I consider to be, exceptional horsemanship. The rider is asking for a soft feel with little pressure (loose line), while performing a job and staying in-time with each step.”

The Flames We Fan 20”x24”

WEIR

“I love the dramatic feel of this painting and the contrast of warm/ cool and light/dark. To me, this piece represents shining your light through darkness and being a light for others. It symbolizes the act of helping to protect/fan someone’s flame, instead of letting it burn-out. It’s a reminder of the light that burns on the other side of darkness. Truly, as in any piece, I want the viewer to engage their imagination and develop a meaning that speaks to them.”