Born and raised in Victoria and after a career of working with the colour and textures of interior decorating, Linda Skalenda started full time painting in 1997, originally in watercolours. In pursuit of more brilliant colour she studied and explored pastels, acrylics and, oils - the medium she loves.

Linda now lives near the beach in Lantzville, Vancouver Island. She gathers inspiration for her west coast scenes by sailing, kayaking or beachcombing with her husband.

Whether it's her whimsical sea life or her sensitive land or seascapes, the passion and use of exciting, vibrant colours that she puts onto her canvases make you stop in your tracks to take a second look. She loves to lead you on a journey into her paintings.

Linda has garnered "Awards of Excellence", "Honourable Mentions" and the all important "People's Choice" awards in many selected juried art shows. Linda is an active member of the Arrowsmith chapter of the Federation of Canadian Artists. Her works are now in collections across Canada, the United States and the UK.

"I will continue to paint the landscapes and whimsical wildlife of my Vancouver Island.

However, upon my recent travels in Europe, I finally have enough reference for my other passion, Italy by the sea!

One of my future goals would be to share my love of painting through teaching"