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22 July 2025 Fiona Dalrymple Joins Sonora Resort as Artist in Residence
At Sonora Resort, we believe that nature is not just something to admire, it’s something to feel, to engage with, and, when possible, to transform into lasting inspiration. This 2025 season, we’re proud to launch our inaugural Artist in Residence Program, a new offering that brings Sonora’s rugged beauty to life through the lens of a celebrated local artist. This immersive, complimentary experience allows guests to witness the creative process unfold in real time and walk away with a deeper connection to the natural world—and the art it inspires.
From August 19–26, we’re honoured to welcome our first Artist in Residence: the talented West Coast painter Fiona Dalrymple.
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Meet the Artist: Fiona Dalrymple
Based on British Columbia’s West Coast, Fiona Dalrymple is a landscape painter whose work captures the wild essence of the Pacific Northwest. Her paintings reflect a deep reverence for nature; she paints the mountains, trees, and beaches of her beloved West Coast with an eye for both geometry and emotion. By playing with bold shapes and vibrant colours, Fiona offers a fresh and contemporary perspective on the raw beauty of our wilderness.
Fiona’s connection to Sonora runs deep, her prints are already featured throughout our resort, from the Arbutus Lodge to the elegant Tyee Dining Room. Her artistic journey took shape after shifting her career from teaching math and science to pursuing a full-time art practice alongside her husband, Wes. Together, they run a home-based studio on Vancouver Island, drawing daily inspiration from adventures with their two young children. Wes handcrafts custom frames for Fiona’s originals, and together they produce archival prints using local, sustainable materials—adding a personal, artisanal touch to every piece.
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An Artistic Experience, Included with Your Stay
Guests staying with us between August 19–26 will be treated to a rare behind-the-scenes look into the artist’s process and inspiration. Over the course of her visit, Fiona will host:
- Five open-air painting sessions, where guests can observe her work live, often with Sonora’s landscapes serving as both studio and muse
- One interactive workshop and Q&A, offering insights into Fiona’s techniques, tools, and artistic journey
- Opportunities to engage, ask questions, witness a piece take shape, or simply sit in quiet appreciation of creativity in action
- Access to signed prints and a chance to view the completed piece inspired by her time at the resort
This experience is designed to enrich your stay without adding anything to your bill, just bring your sense of curiosity and an eye for beauty.
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Why This Residency is Something Truly Special
This isn’t just a moment to watch someone paint, it’s an invitation to experience Sonora from an entirely new perspective.
- For nature lovers, it’s a deeper connection to the land, captured in colour and form
- For art enthusiasts, it’s an intimate encounter with a working artist in the field
- For curious travellers, it’s a rare opportunity to observe inspiration take shape and engage in thoughtful dialogue about the creative process
Above all, this residency adds a layer of cultural richness and personal connection to your Sonora journey—something unexpected, authentic, and memorable.
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Plan Your Stay
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, there’s never been a better time to visit Sonora. Fiona Dalrymple’s residency is a limited-time experience, and we invite you to be part of it.
Join us for this special residency and watch as the beauty of the West Coast is transformed into art—right before your eyes.
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Guest Services
Allow us to assist in curating your perfect visit. From reserving your accommodations to arranging transportation, we are here assit with every detail.