– by Deborah Rogers –
This is part of a rotating series of articles on members of Sidney Meet Up Women’s Networking Group, featuring women in business on the Saanich Peninsula.
Monica Reekie is a hard woman to get hold of. Between her work at the Bateman Centre, the planning of art tours and taking photos on location, time is at a premium at the moment.
Reekie was bitten by the travel bug about five years ago, and confesses that she “can’t quit!” She’s going back to the Galapagos in November, a return visit to a place that has clearly been inspirational to her. This time the trip will again be on Linblad Expedition/National Geographic’s Endeavor with Robert and Birgit Bateman on the tour as well.
Then in Spring 2015, Monica will be hosting a tour of Scotland, Wales and England ending with a day at Highclere Castle (used as the filming location for TV show Downton Abbey). This “Castle to Castle” Tour has been organised by Monica as a fundraiser for Craigdarroch Castle. It should be a unique opportunity to experience different architecture and scenery whilst supporting something local. Giving back is very important to Monica, with a portion of all her artwork sales going to charity.
Monica’s camera goes everywhere with her, she feels she’s “missed out” if she leaves it behind. But she’s not just a photographer: Monica also works in watercolours and acrylic. When she describes her inspiration I get a strong understanding of the importance of Robert Bateman to her. Monica first saw his work in the 1970s and says she has always wanted to paint like him. She felt drawn to his work due to the animals (one of her loves) and their peaceful expressions. She finds him a wonderful person to be around, who “encourages her to always do more.” It seems to be a common theme for photographers to be interested in conservation. “I’ve always loved animals,” Monica explains. “I love taking photos of animals because of the level of trust that develops quickly, silently and completely between the subject and photographer. It gives me a sense of inner peace during and after the event, which returns every time I look at the photographs again.”
Coming up for Monica, alongside all the preparations for her travels, are local shows. At Coast Collective there is a “Black and White show” which will feature several of her pieces. The theme allows artists to work differently, taking all the distraction of colour away. Monica’s website (www.theartofmonicareekie.com) is kept up to date with all the shows that currently feature her work, but there is also an extensive portfolio online. As well as these shows Monica hopes to have at least one piece in the Sidney Fine Arts Show this fall.
For information about the Castle to Castle tour contact Craigdarroch Castle directly: http://thecastle.ca/castle-to-castle-tour/.
