The 11th annual Voice and Vision collaboration pairs artists and writers from Airdrie and surrounding communities to create pieces inspired by each other’s work. Writers begin the project with a prose or poetry piece, in any genre or style, with a suggested 250-word limit. Artists begin the project with a piece no larger than 20″ x 20” in any medium or form.
This year’s gala will be held at the Airdrie Public Library on Friday, September 25, 2026. The project team is immensely grateful to APL and the Airdrie Arts and Culture Council for supporting this year’s project.
1. Asfhan Khan and Wanda L. Bennett
Asfhan Khan is a self-taught abstract visual artist based in Alberta, inspired by Canadian landscapes, florals and expressive palette knife techniques. Her work explores themes of healing, belonging, and emotional expression through colour and texture. She creates pieces that invite reflection, connection and a sense of grounded calm.
In 2019 Wanda L. Bennett wrote two of her most memorable Christmas memories to include in cards to members of the Canadian military and they wrote back! A writer was born. Wanda continues to write her stories, volunteers and keeps the grandmother arts of knitting and quilting alive.
2. Mary Watts and Patricia L. Atchison
Raised by supportive parents, Mary Watts is the youngest of six siblings. Growing up in the Philippines she was surrounded by colours. Other than a couple of summer art classes for basic and charcoal drawing, she went on to the training industry. A few years ago, her older sisters inspired her to try her hand in painting. She started with flora, animal portraits, and landscapes. Most recently she has been also dabbling on people portraits and still life.
Patricia L. Atchison writes imaginative fiction for children and young adults. Her YA fantasy series, Starsun Defiance, draws on ancient myths, animal bonds, hidden worlds, and fierce heroines. Her stories inspire courage, identity, and self belief in readers of every age. Discover more at patriciaatchison.ca
3. Jared Atkin and Yevheniia Vasylkova
Jared Atkin has been writing scattered song lyrics in notebooks since 2015 (useful-ish). In 2024, Jared started finishing songs (far more useful). Jared can be found trying out new songs at @calgarysongsmiths open mics, doing backflips, and singing in the shower (maybe best not to find him there). Socials: @jared.atkin.
Yevheniia Vasylkova is a visual artist who works primarily with watercolours, using her art to explore themes of mental health, the healing power of nature and various aspects of her identity. Originally from Ukraine, Vasylkova moved to Airdrie with her wife and their dog in response to the Russian invasion.
4. Tami Hort and Ryan Donnelly
Versatility describes Tami Hort’s style; she paints all genres and mediums, her favourite oils. After moving to Airdrie in 1988, she joined the Airdrie Artist Guild in 1992 serving as president for many years. Tami has been an art instructor since 1998. She is a member of the CSPC and an honourary member of the FCA Calgary.
Ryan Donnelly is an author and agent of change who has spent a lifetime creating emotionally driven work. Approaching writing as both expression and therapy, Ryan channels his life experiences into writing that explore the depths of human emotion.
5. Cheryl Hoff and Rebecca Piazza
Cheryl Hoff resides in Crossfield, Alberta. In 2013 Cheryl completed a Fine art theory and practice certificate at the University of Calgary. Cheryl is currently working with The Milan Art Institute. Inspired by Artists such as John Singer Sargent and Casey Baugh, Cheryl’s work reflects a deep understanding of colour, and composition.
Rebecca Piazza is an Airdrie author and artist, writing horror, speculative fiction, grimdark, and the wonderfully strange. As Rebekah Raymond, she authored the Life’s Series and Sticky Paycheque. She organizes the When Words Collide Art show and serves on the Wordbridge Writers’ Society of Lethbridge board.
Stay tuned for more pairings!
