Sheila Rae Van Delft, the creative force behind Sheila Rae Van Delft Art, has been enchanting art enthusiasts with her remarkable landscape paintings for over 35 years. Sheila’s mission is to introduce more beauty into the world by capturing nature’s splendour in her paintings. Nestled in South Langley, Sheila’s home studio is a haven for art lovers. She welcomes visitors who wish to explore her collection and witness the creative process behind her stunning works. We connected with her to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
My business is called Sheila Rae Van Delft Art. I’m primarily a landscape painter, creating artwork that captures the incredible beauty of our province, but I’ve also been painting a wide variety of commissions for 35 years so I can paint pretty much anything, including portraits, florals and wildlife.
What made you want to do this work?
I’ve never known a time when I didn’t want to make art. I consider it a calling. I’ve been gifted with some talent that has developed and matured with years of practice and education. I’m inspired by both the Impressionists and the art created by my peers, which I see every day on social media. My mom is a maker, so I grew up seeing her sew, knit, crochet, and create stained glass art. My parents encouraged me all along the way, buying me arts and crafts supplies, sending me to painting classes, and supporting me in leaving home to go to art school.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Our world needs more beauty, and to me, the most beautiful scenes are in nature. When I paint landscapes of the mountains, forests, rivers, and oceans of BC, I’m hoping that others will feel a strong connection to my work and want to bring it into their homes because it means something to them. So often collectors will tell me that a painting reminds them of a place they have been to or a place that they have happy memories of. This is why commissioned artwork is so great; I can make art that recreates a meaningful vision for someone.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
My collectors are of all ages and walks of life. At markets, I have young children marvelling at my wildlife artwork, their parents might purchase a painting of a forest landscape, their aunt might buy a piece of my Barn Wood Art (which are BC landscapes and wildlife painted on recycled barn wood) and their grandparents might choose a fine art print of a Vancouver Island scene.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
I paint what I love, hoping my artwork will connect with others. These paintings sell on my website, through social media and at local Art Markets. I also sell fine art prints of my work. My prices for my original paintings are very good because I don’t work through a gallery, and my fine art prints and cards are very budget friendly.
I also love painting commissions, and the process is easy. Clients tell me what they want painted and what size, I give them a quote, and once it’s finished, I send them a photo to check if they want any changes, which I’m happy to do.
I live and work in the country in South Langley, and I love having visitors in my home studio.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
The best places to find me are on Instagram, where I post all my current work, and at local Art markets where you can see my work in person – always the best way. I keep a list on my website of all the Markets where I’ll be each year. And of course, if someone sees something they love on my website, they can purchase it at any time. I ship pretty much anywhere in the world.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
The best question a prospective customer could ask would be to see the artwork in person. Photography can rarely capture the incredible detail and the lovely brushwork that make an original painting so special. There are so many talented artists out there, so spending some time with my paintings will let you know if you connect with my style and subject matter.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
There are two best parts about what I do. The first is sitting quietly working away at my easel. Time gets lost somehow. The other is being there when a collector connects with the painting that will be theirs. Whether it’s a commission or a first-time viewing at an Art market, when someone’s eyes widen, they smile, or even gasp, I know something great has happened.
The worst part is the paperwork, of course. Anything that takes me away from the best parts.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
My favourite joke: I’m not addicted to art supplies, we’re just in a deeply committed relationship.
One more: Some days I amaze myself. Other days, I look for my paintbrush while I’m already holding it.
Okay, just one more: My phone memory is full, but I’d rather delete my bank app than the hundreds of screenshots of art inspiration photos I have.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
I love Artisan Collective in North Van! The owner Steph is a woodworker and artist in her own right, and she supports so many local artisans and artists like me. I love her beautiful and eclectic collection of furniture and home décor and I love the way she does business.
