“Our goal is to showcase our artistic community while engaging with our natural environment through our plein air painting competitions.”

Calgary-based Canada Paints aims to foster creativity, community, and appreciation for the natural world through the celebration of plein air painting. ​We are a group of artists, instructors and arts supporters motivated to create community through art appreciation.

The Team

President
Victoria Zyluk
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Landscape artist Victoria developed a strong bond with nature on her family farm.

As an educator, she integrated art with education, engaging in arts councils, gallery exhibitions, and the Calgary Stampede Art Auction.

​Her studies, travels, and experiences influenced her distinctive abstract impressionism style, utilizing watercolour, acrylic, charcoal, ink, and mixed media.
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Vice President
Ray Swirsky

​Ray is a Calgary based oil painter who enjoys both studio work and plein air painting.

He has been a regular exhibitor at the Calgary Stampede for the past six years.

​His work can be found at various galleries in Western Canada and at numerous local art shows throughout the year in the Calgary and surrounding areas.

Founding Member
​Doug Levitt

​Doug is an artist specializing in Alla Prima painting techniques.

He is an avid En Plein Air painter (outdoor painting from life) and he loves to paint anything that visually grabs him.

​His passion for growing as an artist is his driving force. This is what motivates him to paint such a diverse subject base.

Director
Samantha Zyluk

​Samantha, a retired schoolteacher and principal from Calgary, embraces new interests post-retirement.

She enjoys lawn bowling, nature walks, and has developed a passion for photography, capturing the beauty of landscapes and wildlife.

Additionally, she manages Victoria Zyluk's website, showcasing her growing tech skills.

​Her journey emphasizes the value of lifelong learning and the joy of new adventures.

Founding Member
Larry Wasyliw

​Larry believes that production is about achieving what others deem impossible.

He received several accolades, including Calgary Citizen of the Year (1999), Calgary Stampede Western Legacy Award (2011), Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013), Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal (2022), and King Charles III Coronation Medal (2025).

​A strong advocate for community service, he co-founded the Bow Valley Ranche Historical Society in 1994, recognizing its significance in Canadian history.