Holly McWilliams' goal is not just to teach technique, but to nurture confidence, creative growth, and a lifelong love of art. Her classes often feel as therapeutic as they are educational—offering students a chance to explore, experiment, and evolve both as artists and as people.
Holly McWilliams is a multi-medium artist and seasoned educator based in Calgary, Alberta. With over two decades of professional experience, she brings a vibrant and intuitive approach to teaching that supports artists at every stage of their creative journey—from complete beginners to advanced professionals.
Primarily a painter, Holly works in watercolour, acrylic, oil, and mixed media. Her artwork is known for its dramatic lighting, moody atmospheres, expressive brushwork, and vivid colours. Her diverse collections span figurative work, urban and rural landscapes, ravens, and the evocative “Dreamscape Series,” a magical body of work that invites viewers into a world of imagination and wonder.
Holly received her formal training at the Alberta College of Art and Design (now Alberta University of the Arts), where she majored in sculpture. Though sculpture grounded her understanding of form and space, her heart always belonged to painting. After graduation, she returned to her roots and established a thriving career as both a visual artist and a dedicated educator.
Since 2000, Holly has taught thousands of students through classes, workshops, and customized programs. She is known for her deeply practical and personalized instruction style, which is grounded in technical expertise across nearly every 2D medium. Her teaching is infused with warmth, humor, and a genuine belief in the creative potential of every student.
Students describe Holly as kind, funny, and refreshingly direct. She fosters a classroom environment that is supportive, empowering, and tailored to individual learning styles. Her goal is not just to teach technique, but to nurture confidence, creative growth, and a lifelong love of art. Her classes often feel as therapeutic as they are educational—offering students a chance to explore, experiment, and evolve both as artists and as people.
Holly founded her company, Indigo Arts, in 2005 with the mission to educate, inspire, and make art accessible to all. Today, she continues to lead with passion, helping students find their voice and build a creative practice that is both joyful and sustainable.
Her artwork can be found in private and corporate collections across Canada, the United States, and Europe. She is currently represented by Avens Gallery and Lineham House.
