Welcome to my website. I am the creator of JD Access Creative Studio, located in the Fraser Heights area of Surrey, BC—a space where my life as an artist truly unfolds. This studio has been home to countless art classes, multiple painting series, and an ever-evolving collection of creative projects that happily fill every corner of my home.

My work is primarily in acrylics and mixed media, and includes series inspired by Surrey parks, the scenery and wildlife of British Columbia, and places I’ve travelled. More recently, my artistic journey has led me into narrative art, combining canvas, textiles, photographs, and paint to tell deeply personal visual stories. Through this work, I create meaningful artworks that capture people’s life histories and family legacies.

Creating legacy is especially important in today’s digital age, where photos often live unseen on devices and families are increasingly separated by distance. Having lost my mother to Alzheimer’s and my father at a young age, I understand how fragile family stories can be—and how vital it is to capture them before they are lost. This has shaped my passion for creating textile-based narrative artworks that weave together family photographs and personal history. I am always happy to take commissions in this meaningful and fascinating area of my practice.

Beyond the studio, I actively participate in grant-funded and community-based art projects. These include fun and purposeful initiatives such as the “Stronger Together” school program, where students learn art skills while collaboratively creating a tapestry that reflects every hand in the school. Last year, I completed my first public mural, which can be seen across the street from the Burquitlam SkyTrain station in Coquitlam. For me, art is always about meaning, connection, and purpose.

During the summer months, I host Aventuras Art and Wellness Retreats in Seymour Arm on Shuswap Lake. These retreats are held at our cabin and waterfront and offer a nurturing space for creative conversations, movement, empowerment, and the sharing of big ideas. Living and creating this way—through connection, passion, and artistic expression—is at the heart of who I am.

I invite you to explore the Gallery to view past and current artworks from my various series. My work is available for purchase, and I’m always excited to create new pieces. Narrative artworks centered on life stories and personal journeys are a special focus, and I welcome inquiries about commissioned pieces that honour your family’s legacy.

The Events and Promotions section includes details about upcoming Aventuras Artist and Wellness Retreats. These tend to fill quickly, so early registration is recommended.

You can also find me on Facebook and Instagram (@joanne_dennis_art_studio), where I regularly share what I’m working on and what inspires me.