Artist in Residence Program at Fairmont Empress
The Artist in Residence program at Fairmont Empress is captivating guests with live art performances and showcasing the extraordinary talents of local artists in the Greater Victoria region. Artists using various mediums are displaying their work in the hotel’s upper mezzanine throughout the year, providing a culturally enriching experience for all hotel visitors.
Each month, a distinguished local artist will demonstrate their artistic prowess on canvas through live painting sessions. Guests and the community will have the unique opportunity to witness the birth of a masterpiece as the artists create stunning works of art right before their eyes. The artists will share their creative process and inspirations, providing an intimate glimpse into the world of artistry.
Artists will be on-site three times a week during their monthly residency. Their schedules will be posted here at the beginning of each month.
For the month of February, the Artist in Residence is:
Mike Lathrop
Born and raised in Calgary, Mike Lathrop moved to Victoria to earn a degree in Visual Arts at the University of Victoria from 1990–94. Mike lives in Victoria with his spouse and two children. He works from his home studio and sells original paintings and limited-edition giclée prints.
“My process begins when I am struck by my environment. I take it in and feel how I am reacting to it. With every finished work, I try to create an experience for the viewer that evokes what I felt. I document my experience and create a connection with the viewer by communicating my personal impression of the moment my painting represents.”
Location: Upper Lobby
Dates & Time: Friday – Sun, February 1 – February 28, 2026 | 10:30AM-2:30PM
*** The February 22 date will be moved to February 23rd with the same hours.