When the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games officially begin, a Northern Ontario artist will be enjoying a golden moment of his own.
Two of Stephen Peltonen’s colourful paintings will greet visitors in the lobby of Vancouver’s Killarney Centre, a practice venue for short-track speed skaters. Meanwhile, Peltonen’s depiction of the Whistler spirit, etched in glass, will adorn the Whistler Creekside Roundhouse, an alpine skiing lodge.
It was a FedNor connection that started the ball rolling for the 37-year-old artist from Hearst, Ontario. While attending a session in Timmins on Vancouver Olympic opportunities, Eric Maag, a Trade Northern Ontario advisor, learned about the Aboriginal Art Program showcasing works by First Nations, Inuit and Métis artists at 15 Olympic venues. Recognizing the incredible exposure that the Olympics would afford the Northern Ontario artist, Maag urged Peltonen to go for gold. Peltonen submitted seven entries — two were chosen.
“Thrilled, honoured, and excited are some of the emotions I’m feeling to be part of the Olympic story,” said Peltonen.
Peltonen’s work will become part of the permanent legacy of the 2010 Winter Games and it will also be featured in the publication, O Siyam: Aboriginal Art , a coffee table book.
“It’s the best thing that ever happened to me in a long, long time. I never dreamed that my art would be featured in an Olympic book.”
Expanding export markets and offering guidance through export transactions are some of the one-on-one business services that FedNor provides through its support of trade advisory services. In the case of Peltonen’s business, Spruce Root Arts, Maag explained it was a matter of making his client aware of the wonderful opportunity.
“I feel like the coach who helped his athlete get to the Olympics,” said Maag with a laugh. “Steven’s incredible artistry combined with his great work ethic has brought about his Olympic success.”
