Alumni Artists Driven by Passion and a Love of the Work
Take a peek into the vibrant creativity of three talented University of Calgary alumni artists.
By Ryan Ohashi, MBA'21
Create Something
We spent some time with three artists; Dane Thibeault, BA’16, Bonnie MacRae-Kilb, BSc’83 and Raquelita Centeno, BFA’19 who have all contributed their artworks to the Arch Awards. They spoke on their diverse styles and inspirations and showcased some of their compelling artwork, offering a glimpse into the thriving artistic community cultivated at UCalgary.
Dane Thibeault, BA’16
Dane Thibeault's artistic journey is a blend of storytelling and visual expression. Initially drawn to creative writing, he embarked on a path that seamlessly merged his passion for narrative with visual artistry. Transitioning from his English degree at UCalgary to exploring graphic design and illustration at Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD), now Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts), he found his true calling in the realm of visual storytelling. Influenced by childhood interests in movies, comics, and video games, particularly Nintendo classics, his work exudes vibrant colors and intricate narratives that captivate audiences.
With a firm grasp of both traditional and digital media, Thibeault’s artistry knows no bounds. He embraces the versatility of digital tools, enabling him to refine his craft and explore diverse styles effortlessly. As an illustrator his focus lies not only on creating visually stunning pieces but also on effectively communicating ideas and themes. Looking ahead, he aspires to broaden his horizons by collaborating with clients worldwide and eventually venturing into post-secondary teaching, driven by a passion for continuous learning and sharing his expertise in illustration.
Thibeault is now represented exclusively globally by The Bright Agency illustration/literary agency with offices in the United Kingdom and the United States.
Get to know the Artist:
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Getting to create something new every day.
What was your favourite book as a kid?
The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary.
If you weren't an artist, what would your dream job be?
A mystery novelist, as I originally aspired to be a writer before pursuing illustration professionally.
Who or what are your biggest influences or inspirations in the art world?
Figurative artist Steve Huston, who I have studied with for years online, classic illustrators William Stout, Arthur Rackham, Heinrich Kley and David Downton, and contemporary Alberta born illustrators Jillian and Lauren Tamaki.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists?
Please remember that even though it can be difficult at times, keep studying and learning every day. As you continue to hone your skills and bring new ideas and images into being, you are ultimately contributing something meaningful to the world that technology can never reproduce because it had your intention and life experiences behind it.
What is your most treasured possession?
My custom Pilot Namiki Falcon fountain pen that I ordered from Japan! I use it for a lot of my practice sketching.
Do you prefer to start your day with tea or coffee?
Definitely coffee!
What is your favourite colour combination?
Orange and blue, or more generally warm and cool colour contrasts.
Where do you feel most inspired?
When the artwork I am working on matched the ideas I had in mind when I started it. I find a frustrating experience that sometimes occurs during the process is when the end product doesn’t meet the original vision, and this can be discouraging at times.
What do you like to listen to when you work?
I always listen to my favourite artist, The Weeknd while I work, and a dream of mine is to draw a portrait of him for a magazine or a book one day.
When you’re not working, how do you spend your time?
I like to take online courses to continue improving my illustration skills. Other activities that I enjoy include running, playing video games, and watching music videos.
Who are some of the clients you have worked with?
Some of my past clients include the University of Calgary, publishers like Annick Press, Calgary based RedPoint Media, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
The biggest thing I hope is that I communicate the message, idea or theme to the best of my abilities and make the visual the best it can be.
Dane Thibault, BA'16
Bonnie MacRae-Kilb, BSc’83
Bonnie MacRae-Kilb's career is a testament to her remarkable ability to balance multiple passions and pursuits throughout her life. While studying kinesiology at the University of Calgary, she excelled both academically and athletically, being named the University of Calgary Female Athlete of the Year twice (1982 and 1983). She graduated with a degree in Physical Education and her diverse experiences, including playing in volleyball national championships with the Dinos and playing and coaching internationally, enriched her creative spirit and provided her with a unique perspective for design and her art. MacRae-Kilb has expressed that the University of Calgary holds a special place in her heart as the Canadian institution that "she feels most indebted to".
After retiring from professional sports and starting a family, she found solace and fulfillment in interior design, leveraging her creativity in a practical yet artistic manner. However, her passion for fine art never waned, and she eventually transitioned back to painting full-time. Despite the ebb and flow of her creative process, she remains steadfast in her commitment to her art, cherishing the moments of inspiration and eagerly anticipating the return of her fervent creative energy.
MacRae-Kilb’s approach to art reflects a deep reverence for the creative process and a refusal to compromise her integrity for commercial success. While she acknowledges the challenges of navigating the art world's ever-evolving landscape, she remains steadfast in her dedication to authenticity and artistic freedom. Her unwavering commitment to her craft serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, reminding them of the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing the journey, wherever it may lead.
Get to know the Artist:
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
To be in a state of acceptance of oneself, those around you, and the awe life provides.
What is your greatest fear?
Living life and being afraid of taking risks, having regrets, or making excuses
What was your favourite book as a kid?
Oh,The Places You’ll Go by Dr Seuss
If you weren't an artist, what would your dream job be?
A professional tennis athlete
Who or what are your biggest influences or inspirations in the art world?
Amy Dryer
What advice would you give to aspiring artists?
The answers lie in the doing
Which living person do you most admire?
My Mother Simone MacRae
What is your greatest extravagance?
My Tennis habit, playing/viewing it in various places around the globe
What is your current state of mind?
I try to live in a state of joy and gratitude
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
It depends on many variables & circumstances; I believe there is a time and place for all virtues.
What is your most treasured possession?
A custom gold pendant my husband had made following the loss of our son Brett, and our dog / fur baby KODI.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My Husband Brad, and son Justin.
What is your motto?
Control the controllable.
Do you prefer to start your day with tea or coffee?
Definitely coffee.
Why do you like being an artist in 3 words?
Freedom, Expression, Surprise.
What is your favourite colour combination?
It depends on my mood but right now a cool yellow & blue with a warm red/violet.,
Where do you feel most inspired?
In nature on the edges of the day.
What do you like to listen to when you work?
Jazz, World, R&B music or podcasts if I have a clear direction as to what I am creating.
When you’re not working, how do you spend your time?
Time with friends and family, volunteering, walking, playing tennis, swimming creating/making stuff.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Watermelon
I knew the answer was in the doing. If you're an athlete, it's in the training, and if you're an artist, it's in making art.
Bonnie McRae-Kilb, BSc’83
Raquelita Centeno, BFA’19
In a relatively short amount of time, Raquelita Centeno’s career has reflected a path of self-discovery and dedication to her craft. Initially drawn to architecture, she found her true passion in illustration after realizing it aligned more closely with her creative aspirations. Inspired by the colorful and magical illustrations of children's books she adored growing up, she pursued further refinement of her skills at Vancouver Film School, focusing on concept art.
Despite facing burnout at times from the demanding nature of animation, she remains committed to her artistic endeavours. She aspires to have her first gallery show and continue accepting commissions online, drawing inspiration from fellow illustrators on Instagram and within the animation industry. Through social media, she has found a supportive community that encourages her artistic growth and fosters meaningful connections with like-minded creatives.
Looking ahead, she envisions creating a personal line of paintings that reflect her journey of healing and self-discovery, free from external expectations. Guided by the wisdom of a mentor who emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication, she embraces the challenges of her artistic journey with determination and resilience, recognizing that true mastery requires effort and perseverance.
For something different - Centeno also specializes in Nail Art: @RaquelitaDoesYourNails
Get to know the Artist:
What is your idea of perfect happiness:
All my friends living in the same street as me.
What is your greatest fear:
Losing my health.
Who or what are your biggest influences in the art world:
The community itself as they keep creating and sharing with one another.
What do you consider the most overrated virtue:
They all hold a great purpose.
What is your most treasured possession:
My iPad!
Who is your hero of fiction:
Samwise Gamgee for his courage, kindness and deep loyalty!
Which historical figure do you identify most with:
Not only for having a latin background, but speaking up about her struggles as a woman.
What is your motto:
I take responsibility for everything that comes out of my mouth.
Do your prefer to start your day with tea or coffee:
As long as it’s sweet and creamy with lots of soy milk, they’re both awesome! Coffee is for when I didn’t sleep very much though.
Why do you like being an artist in 3 words:
Emotional, Communication & Release
What is your favourite colour combination:
A lot of them but red and lavender right now.
When you’re not working, how do you spend your time:
Dancing, dressing up, and/or with friends.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be:
Soup!!!
I want to have a line of works where it's just mine and that way I can have my personal relationship with art without it being affected by others expectations.
Raquel (Raquelita) Centeno, BFA’19
