For over a decade, a local artist has been painting the beauty of the Nakusp and Okanagan regions.
Although he has overcome a series of tragedies, Ricky Lamb views art as an outlet for his many experiences.
On Dec. 4, 2009, Lamb lost his left leg in a work-related accident.
"While I had all that downtime, I got back into my art and started drawing and painting," Lamb said. "I got to pursue something rather than feel sorry for myself and it taught me a lot."
Now, 15 years later, Lamb continues to paint.
His most recent piece features a tipi called They Dwell, which he painted after being given photographs of it, by someone who had the original structure on their property as a child.
"A lot of people really appreciate (They Dwell ) and relate to that one."
It took him 15 hours to complete the watercolour painting.
"I want a person to be able to walk right into that painting. To feel it and smell the air and be able to see themselves there," he said.
Lamb likes his paintings to look as realistic as possible, almost, as though they are photographs themselves.
"Realism is my main focus, but I also like cartooning too. I don't like being stuck in one particular area," he added.
This was his first drawing of a tipi and he hopes to continue creating art that reflects the Aboriginal and Indigenous communities in B.C.
"I have done some hummingbirds and I really like that. I love the Native aspect (because) there is a whole history there."
Currently, Lamb is working on six paintings. His favourite medium to work with is watercolour.
Before the accident, Lamb always had an interest in being an artist.
"I have always drawn, even as a kid. ... My mom was a big supporter of me and my art. She loved seeing my drawings," he said.
In January 2023, his mother died unexpectedly. Then, two months later, his stepdad, who he refers to adoringly as 'Pops,' also died.
"It is because of them that I have pushed (myself) and I want to thank them for having my back."
Lamb is also indebted and grateful to his wife, Nicole, who gives her honest opinion on his work.
"Nicole has always been my biggest support and my critic. She has pushed me to become meticulous and if it doesn't look good to her, she'll tell me," he said.
Lamb also appreciates the generosity and kindness of the Nakusp community.
Next on his list is the possibility of having an art show to display his work.
"Maybe this year I can work something out with one of the curators here," he said.
"Every piece I do, I put everything into it," he added.
Lamb is currently working on an acrylic painting of elephants, which he plans to have completed at the end of January.
"It is a real privilege and humbling to be able to do this," he said.
To view more of Lamb's work, visit his website, https://rickylambart.com/.
