RESIDENT ARTIST STUDIOS
THE DARKROOM STUDIO →
ARTISTS: DON EMERSON · MELINDA GOETJEN
The Darkroom Studio is a shared working studio at TOSH, home to resident artists Don Emerson and Melinda Goetjen. Through photography and visual storytelling, each brings a distinct perspective to the people, places and natural environments that inspire their work.
Visitors are welcome to stop in, meet the artists and see creativity at work.
DON EMERSON
Photographer Don Emerson has been making images for more than four decades, from early 1980s prairie journeys spent under the black cloth hood of his four-by-five view camera, photographing old granaries and the light on snow fences along railway tracks, to the present day. He spent many years as a school portrait photographer. His work spans still lifes, encounters with Indigenous and Irish cultures, and images captured in quiet moments, shaped by his attention to size, symbolism, balance, light, and juxtaposition. Married to painter Norma Emerson since 1980, Don has shared a vibrant creative life, and is full of generous encouragement. He built the darkroom studio in 1988!
His work reflects on how photography connects memory, community, and society.
MELINDA GOETJEN
Melinda Goetjen is a Vancouver Island photographic artist whose work reflects a deep sense of curiosity, introspection and connection to the natural world. Originally from the Prairies, she has embraced life on the West Coast, exploring Vancouver Island from mountain peaks to remote beaches with her two children.
Adventure provides endless inspiration for Melinda's photography, allowing her to capture the intricate details, unexpected perspectives and fleeting moments she encounters along the way. A multidisciplinary creative, Melinda is also a visual artist, jewellery maker, adventure guide and entrepreneur, bringing an adventurous spirit and a constant desire to explore new ideas to her creative practice.
VISIT THE STUDIO
THE DARKROOM STUDIO:
Located Downstairs at TOSH, At least one of the studio’s resident artists is typically working in the studio during TOSH opening hours.
HOURS:
10am-4pm, Tue - Sat
LOCATION:
The Old School House Arts Centre - Downstairs Gallery
Admission is free:
As a non-profit charity, we rely on the generosity of our visitors. Please consider a donation of $10 per person (or any amount you’re able to give) to help keep art thriving in our community.
Donate online here, or tap the
terminal at the front desk.