Ann Haessel’s Artwork Featured by Montreal Clothing Company
“The call came out of the blue. It was a complete surprise!” Calgary artist Ann Haessel has been creating unique, colourful abstract art pieces since 1982. Her work includes hand embroidery, quilting, and a wide variety of mixed media consisting of layers of fabric, which are sewn, burned and embellished into the final pieces. Her work has been shown at exhibitions throughout Canada, the U.S. and Europe.
Now she is embarking on a new journey. Le Galeriste in Montreal combines clothing with images by artists. When they called Ann, wanting to incorporate her work into their clothing lines, it caught her by surprise. She found a photographer, Darold Black, who sent the company photos of some of her work. For every image submitted, they send back photos of 10 different items of clothing for her approval.
“I don’t know why they chose me out of all the artists in Canada. It is a very nice boost at a time when COVID is causing so much concern. I’m glad they did, and it’s a good feeling to know my art is getting out there, and bringing people so much joy,” said Ann, who lives at United’s Garrison Green community. The community has attracted people from a wide range of backgrounds interested in its professional art studios, and promotes a lifestyle of lifelong learning and creativity. Ann’s new interest demonstrates how being part of a United community provides our residents with the opportunity to continue to pursue their passions, learn new things and connect with other like-minded individuals.
She has teamed up with Cindy Giesbrecht, also a fibre artist and the daughter of fellow Garrison Green residents Connie and Art Giesbrecht, Together they are preparing to do a joint exhibition next fall.
Ann’s work appears on scarves, dresses, T-shirts, tablecloths, even masks. “The masks have turned into a bestseller on their website,” said Ann.
“The association with this company is something new that keeps me interested in life,” said Ann. “I’m 78. I didn’t think I’d be embarking on a new business venture, but it’s so nice to enjoy a little more success as I age. I have been totally blessed by this.”
Ann continues to hone her creative side, and plans to expand her art by using some of things she is learning in the art studio, and perhaps incorporating clay and other elements into her already fascinating art pieces.
You can see more of Ann’s artwork on her website, www.haessel.net
Photos by Darold Black and Sherana Productions. Videos by Sherana Productions.
Take a look at our new commercial, Life Experiences.
Talk with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help!
To learn more about life at United’s Fish Creek community, watch this short video.
Or, to find out more about life at United’s Garrison Green, watch this short video.
Photography by www.blackmediaworks.com
