2026-2027 Board of Directors
Every year at our General Meeting, our artist-members vote in team of peers to form our Board of Directors and take on the responsibility of guiding the Fernie Arts Co-op.
We’re excited to introduce the 2026-27 Board of Directors and celebrate the creativity, leadership, and artistic talent they bring to the organization:
Natalie Tretyak – President
Natalie is a fiber artist known for her eco-friendly handcrafted felted creations made from wool and silk. Using the wet felting techniques, she creates unique fibre paintings, sculptural wall hangings, and interior design pieces inspired by texture, colour, and the natural world.
Joyce Craig – Vice President
Joyce is a reclaimed wood artist who transforms aged barnwood into stunning works inspired by nature, wildlife, and the history embedded in reclaimed materials. Each piece celebrates the character of weathered wood, preserving its knots, textures, and imperfections as part of the story.
Anita Braconnier – Treasurer
Photographer, mixed media artist, and leather worker, Anita Braconnier, has always had a deep appreciation for photography and the creative process behind image-making. Her work captures emotion, visual storytelling, and the beauty of the natural world through thoughtful composition and artistic editing. From landscapes and nature photography to candid portraits and weddings, Anita’s images invite viewers to form a personal connection with each scene.
Helena de Jong – Secretary
Helena is a self-taught potter whose work is inspired by the mountains, rivers, and natural beauty surrounding Fernie. Alongside ceramics, she also enjoys quilting, sewing, and stained-glass art, and values opportunities to share creativity through workshops and community collaborations.
Michael Hepher – Board Member at Large
Mike is an interdisciplinary artist working as a letterpress printer, wood engraver, oil painter, and illustrator. His work explores alternate ways of seeing familiar surroundings, presenting bold and playful interpretations of community and nature. Through strong shapes, rich colour, and graphic line work, Mike creates a unique visual language that reflects the interconnectedness of natural systems and the hidden complexities within the world around us.
Meg Moran – Board Member at Large
Meg is the creative force behind Meggy Makes Clay. Her vibrant polymer clay jewelry designs combine playful colour palettes, textures, and contemporary style. Drawing on her background in design, she creates bold wearable pieces that bring a piece of whimsy to everyday outfits.
Caroline Payne – Board Member at Large
Caroline first discovered ceramics while completing her Creative Writing degree at the University of Victoria. After taking Ceramics as an elective in her final year, she was immediately drawn to the tactile and physical nature of the medium and soon pursued pottery full time. Following studies at Ceramic Art School in Nelson, she returned to Fernie.
Inspired by fairy tales, whimsy, and imagination, Caroline creates playful ceramic work intended to brighten people’s days and bring a little magic into their lives.
Welcome to the 2026-27 Fernie Arts Co-op Board of Directors
With this dedicated team of seven artists serving on the Board, the Fernie Arts Co-op is looking forward to another exciting year of supporting local artists, fostering creativity, and celebrating Fernie’s vibrant arts community.
