PHOTO: Slocan Valley metal artist James Karthein has been working on a new metal sign for the extensive renovations underway at the Eagle Pass Heliskiing headquarters on Mackenzie Avenue. You're probably familiar with some of Karthein's work; he built the sturgeon and kokanee sculpture on Mackenzie Avenue (along with artist Kevin Kratz). The giant, metal heron statue in the front window of Art First is another fantastic work by Karthein. It was actually built as a maquette for a nine-foot version erected in Castlegar. It's for sale at around $10,000. Karthein has other downmarket works at Art First! including a fire poker set made to mimic the tools of winter – a ski pole and shovel.
Karthein is one of several artists we spoke with at Art First!'s holiday show on Nov. 15. Find out more about local artists in this photo gallery featuring extensive captions.