Biography
Images from the natural world make for stimulating inspiration for many artists. Having been invited to sculpt birds in the last five years, Fran has now become a confirmed “birder.” Fran Cuyler’s knowledge of composition, form, and the special characteristics of ravens lend immediacy to her work. She finds the quirky nature and great intelligence of these birds endlessly fascinating. The 'raven' is a figure of honour, creation, and knowledge in the First Nation’s community. Commonly known as the 'trickster', the raven has many myths, including the creation of humans and the bringing of light into the world. These elements of the raven character, her interest, and her continuing exploration of material about ravens inspire her to explore both their character as well as the structural manipulation of form. Fran strives to capture the idiosyncrasies and foibles of these seemingly clever, eccentric birds.
Fran’s career as a sculptor has encompassed a wide variety of experience, including working in stone, clay, ice, snow, concrete, fiberglass, sand, or papier mache. She has achieved recognition as an art educator, highest honors in competition, project leadership, demonstration, competition judging and numerous solo and group exhibitions.
A lifetime learner with boundless energy, Fran has a Master’s Degree in Art Education. She has attended a number of art classes from the University of Alberta - Faculty of Extension, Red Deer College, and the Banff Centre; where she focused her studies on painting and sculpture. She continues to pass on her knowledge as a children’s art instructor and in the development and execution of art classes for adults. Fran was an original founder of the Sculptors’ Association of Alberta.
Competition and fascinating cultural exchanges have enticed Fran into demonstrating her talent as a sculptor in the international, national, and local ice and snow events in Japan, China, Alaska, Montreal, Quebec, Winnipeg, Lake Louise, Edmonton and many other locations. She has exhibited her work in public galleries such as the McMullen Gallery (University of Alberta Hospital), Edmonton City Hall, and Harcourt House (Edmonton).