Canadian Artistry & Mistaken Identity

This past week we had the opportunity to stage at the Aster Gardens seniors residence in Sherwood Park. We like to be mindful with each piece that we add to a home, so in turn, thought what better way to compliment these beautiful suites than with a painting of the aster flower?

The arts community is one we love to support and when we came across art created by Laurel Fast of Winnipeg, Manitoba, we knew we had to have it! We ordered this piece from Laurel, had it framed, and placed it in one of the show suites. The star-shaped aster flower represents the three things we often acquire with age, the tag explains:

Aster "Star" Flower

Love, Wisdom, Faith

by Laurel Fast

This painting stirred up some confusion, the debate centering around the identity of the artist. A friend to the show suite photographer and artist in her own right, another woman named Laurel Fast, began to receive compliments for her artistry! She quickly realized this was a case of mistaken identity and Laurel Fast (of Sherwood Park) reached out to Laurel Fast (of Winnipeg). Once the two Laurels were in contact they were able to laugh with one another at the mix-up.

We're happy to see all the positive comments and love for this artwork. So, we thought we would introduce you to the artist behind the canvas, Laurel Fast (of Winnipeg).

Laurel started painting about seven years ago. Exploring different mediums with a few art classes, she realized she could combine her love of art and nature. She says, "When I am painting I lose all sense of time, so that is what I would call a relaxing hobby!"

The inspiration for Laurel's work comes from her love of nature, landscapes, and flowers. She enjoys the challenge to capture such beauty in a single painting. "As my husband can attest to, we can no longer stroll through a flower garden without multiple pauses to take pictures of flowers...in case I want to paint it one day!"

Both Laurel Fasts, A Step Up Inc., and Aster Gardens all hope that this story along with the artwork itself brings joy and beauty to all who see it!