Artist Spotlight: Ruolin Shi

One of the benefits of collaborative projects, is interacting and learning from amazing people and artists from across the country. We thought it would be fun to peel back the veil and introduce you to the artists who provide the background canvas and inspiration for our transformative puzzle experiences. 

Waterton National Park is a Canadian gem tucked away at the Southern edge of the Alberta Rockies. While it may not get the attention of the iconic mountains near Banff, it is well worth a trip, especially if you appreciate the road less travelled. Through our collaboration with Calgary artist Ruolin Shi, we aim to shed light on a lesser known, but no less beautiful Canadian landscape. In turn, Ruolin has taken some time to shed some light on herself and her art.

How does your artistic process fit into your daily life?

My artistic process really reflects my engineering background—it's structured, planned, and very intentional.

Once I’ve decided on the naturescape I want to paint, I start with a few rough sketches to figure out the composition. I then scan those sketches and begin blocking in colors digitally. This helps me see if the color palette works well together before I commit to paint. That step usually takes the most tweaking, as I adjust things to make sure the piece feels cohesive. Once I’m happy with both the composition and colors, I re-sketch out the line work onto a stretched canvas with a brown or red marker. While I paint, I use my original reference photo alongside the digital mock-up as guides while I bring the piece to life.

Any fresh art you can share with us that you're particularly proud of?

I recently wrapped up my largest painting to date—a 48" x 72" piece featuring a giant ancient cedar tree on Vancouver Island, BC. It was such a meaningful project to work on, capturing the scale and quiet strength of one of nature’s oldest giants.

What can you reveal about the origin story and inspiration for Prismatic Peaks?

My inspiration always comes from the mountains and natural wonders of Western Canada. As a civil engineer by training, I often weave structural elements into my paintings as a subtle nod to that part of my life. Prismatic Peaks, which features Waterton Lakes National Park, is a perfect example of that blend. I was drawn to the striking contrast between the grandeur of the natural landscape and the small yet iconic presence of the Prince of Wales Hotel. There's something magical about how the built and natural worlds meet in that scene.

Are you a puzzle solver?

Yes! I love working on a good, challenging puzzle—it’s like therapy for me.

My ideal puzzling moment is late in the evening, after the kids are in bed. The puzzle is laid out on the dining table, I’m standing over trying to piece it together, glass of wine in hand, with Gilmore Girls playing in the background. It’s my little pocket of calm at the end of a busy day.

How does it feel to experience your artwork transformed into a puzzle?

Honestly, it feels surreal to see my artwork transformed by another artist into a completely different medium, taking on a new life and purpose. It’s become more than what I originally envisioned, and I’m incredibly proud and grateful to everyone involved in the process. It’s such a gift to see my original piece evolve into something even greater—something that can now be touched, explored, and experienced in a whole new way.

Thanks Ruolin! Any final thoughts?

I want people to feel the joy and vibrancy of being transported to the mountains through my art. Whether they’re working in an office or relaxing at home, coffee in hand, I hope that — even just for a moment — they can escape into the vibrant landscapes I've created. My goal is to offer a little window into the Rockies with the fullness and quality of color and light that brings a sense of calm, wonder, and connection to nature.

❤️