Lynn has a reputation for attracting creative types. Tucked away from the city the river was an early weekend getaway from Vancouver’s big city drawing artists to the forested oasis. Today’s artists and creators walk the same paths of The Group of Seven’s Frederick Varley. Both our feature profiles from this month – Vanessa Gladden and Barrie Street – have strong digital footprints. In that spirit, we have put together a list of five makers and creators worth checking out.
Four to follow
We have put together a group of four people to follow. Some we have featured before and others are new. We are excited to nudge you in the direction of learning more about the interesting people that make Lynn Valley home.
Eve Lazarus – Website – With a longstanding journalism career under her belt and 10 books (everything from true crime to travel guides) Eve Lazarus has a lot on the go. Her Instagram is a must for anyone who loves Vancouver’s history. Every post is a glimpse into an intriguing past These posts sometimes get picked up by local websites – follow her and get it straight from the source often with links to her website for more detailed blog posts. For those who love true crime, Lazarus’ books and podcasts are worth picking up and downloading. If you like what you see Lazarus is an active participant in local and regional writers festivals.
Duane Murrin – Instagram – artist – We call all but guarantee you have seen artist Duane Murrin’s work. His Lynn Canyon image graced the street banners on Lynn Valley Road in 2021. His use of bold colours make his Instagram a wonder for the eyes. Murrin has worked with many partners over the years to get his art to the masses from skis to kombucha cans to his own estore, his works scream south coast – and we love it.
Lynn Valley Forge – Instagram – Artisan Casey Vilensky takes metal and makes functional art with awe-inspiring knives. Keeping alive the age-old craft of blacksmithing his work happens in our local hills. He has a newer partnership making knives under the brand Zensky Cutlery. They also do an annual fundraiser for the NICU at BC Women’s Hospital. Beautiful work no matter how you slice it.
Ben Hemara – Instagram – Local chainsaw carver Ben Hemara has been revealing the inner spirit of logs and stumps for the last few years. His growing client base and competition successes make for a stunning Instagram feed. There are also some works in stumps along a handful of Lynn Valley trails.
A bonus account worth a follow is Lynn Valley and CBC’s Johana Wagstaffe. Her Instagram feed is a delightful mix of science, family, dogs and Lynn Valley parks. In the past, we have spoken to Wagstaffe about her life and Lynn Valley’s unique weather.
Looking for more?
There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.
