About the Artist

Residing in Calgary, AB, the mountains stand strong around me, the prairie sky fills with wind and colour above. I couldn’t ask for a better studio. As an artist I reflect on my experiences of the outdoors and strive to show my appreciation the best way I know how: painting. In a time of disconnect from nature, I advocate that art is a tool to help us better understand the natural world. A tool of celebration and connection, the arts act as a call to action. I tell the stories of the natural world that are desperate to be heard. As an Artist Educator, I dedicate my lessons to using art as a tool for personal connection to nature; celebrating the land beneath our feet and allowing people of all ages to better understand the natural world and the ways we can protect it.

Growing up on the edge of the Canadian Rockies, my winters were spent observing the gentle stillness of snow on trees as they creaked in the wind, and chasing adrenaline down mountainsides with skis strapped to my feet. My summers were spent with long winding roads ahead, the winds whispering promises of freedom and adventure; all the while a canoe strapped to the top of our van. That canoe has been the vessel and home of many adventures. It has carried me through lake chains and rivers for weeks on end, the point from which I viewed expansive wilderness. Turned upside down on the rocky beaches of Canada’s waterways, it has served as my painting desk.

My paintings were my love letters to the world around me and they continue to be so. It was through these experiences that I gained a respect and admiration for nature that is prevalent through my work. I try to emulate the feeling of harmony and peace I can only feel when I am outdoors. Nature has always been my playground, my classroom, my greatest teacher and healer. 

Libby Amber Pryor (She/Her)

Land Acknowledgement

In the spirit of reconciliation, I acknowledge and honour the land where the Bow River and Elbow River meet—known by many names, including Otos-kwunee, Moh’kinstsis, Wicispa Oyade, Guts’ists’i, and Calgary. This confluence represents the coming together of many peoples, and the sharing of respect, stories, and beliefs.

With gratitude, I acknowledge the ancestral home, culture, and oral teachings of the Treaty 7 signatories: the Siksika Nation, Piikani Nation, Kainai Nation, and the Îethka Stoney Nakoda Nations (comprising the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney Bands), as well as the Tsuut’ina Nation. I also recognize the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, Métis Battle River Territory, Nose Hill Métis District 5, and Elbow Métis District 6.

As an immigrant from England, I am deeply grateful to have been raised among the mountains, plains, and watersheds that have shaped me and offered endless wonder and adventure. I am committed to learning about the history of this land, its peoples, and the ongoing impacts of colonization. I pledge to care for this land for future generations and to uphold the teachings that have been shared with me.

You can hear the pronunciations of Calgary’s Treaty 7 signatories here.
Learn more through the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Canada Course.
Explore Indigenous territories globally at native-land.ca.
Through reflection, connection, and action, we can work together to answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.