Neighbour of Note – Craig Guthrie Craig Guthrie had watched many hours of painter Bob Ross on television over the years. It made painting seem approachable and inspired him to create his first painting while in high school. “Although that first painting was in oils, all the work I’ve done since has been with water-based acrylics,” explains Craig. “I’ve learned to layer acrylic paint in thin glazes, much like many oil painters do. Acrylic works well for me, though it’s really a matter of personal preference. I’ve heard people say that acrylics limit what you can achieve with paint, but I have yet to experience that myself.” Craig had attended the University of Windsor’s Fine Arts Acting program, but found himself spending more time in the scenery shop. “After finishing school, I began working as a scenic artist for theatres, which led me to the Grand Theatre. I moved to London with my partner for that job 20 years ago, and we still fondly remember landing in Wortley Village and calling the Monica Apartments home.” Since our time in that apartment on Elmwood, my husband and I bought a little brick cottage on the edge of the Coves about 13 years ago. We love to walk into Wortley for the library, a bite to eat, a pint, a few groceries, or ice cream—in no particular order. When friends visit from out of town, we love to walk through the village with them and show off London at its very best. “After 20 years at the Grand Theatre, my favourite aspect of the job has been working in tandem with Head Scenic Artist Richard Lawler. Unlike my solo studio practice, theatre is a collaborative venture. It has been a unique joy to develop an artistic approach to projects with Richard; we seem to work as one, and I feel very lucky to have that.” Craig just won the 2025 ArtComp Panel’s Choice award! The competition, held at 100 Kellogg Lane, exhibits 100 art pieces from around the globe. “I would be lying if I said the ArtComp prize money didn’t catch my eye—but I think that’s the point. It’s a significant amount that draws attention, and it’s hard to argue with bringing both attention and money to the arts. I had applied in two of the previous years of the competition, but this was the first time my work was accepted into the show. Part of what makes ArtComp so exciting is that it welcomes work from all over the world and from every level of experience. Submissions are now open for the competition’s fifth year.” Learn more about ArtComp at artcomp.ca. See more of Craig’s work at craigguthrie.ca.
Craig wi th his ‘Red Grapes on Cyan’ painting in progress. The piece went on to win the Panel’s Choice award at ArtComp, 100 Kellogg Lane. Below, various other works in progress.
Above, a curtain painted for the 2023 Grand Theatre High School production of Phantom of the Opera. The set was designed by Scott Penner. Left: Craig paints a scene for the Grand Theatre’s Mary Poppins, 2019.
Page 8 Wortley Villager • November 2025
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