Zoë Caine • member since 2026

I am a queer and neurodivergent creative writer and 2D mixed media visual artist currently pursuing a BFA at The University of British Columbia. I’ve had my art shown in several group exhibitions and am currently a Director on the board of the Wine Country Writers’ Festival. I’ve also been involved in the theatre community, and have been acting since I was nine years old.

Stories are at the heart of my artistic practice. Both my art and writing focus heavily on themes of emotions and little overlooked experiences that I translate into layered visual metaphors, character psychology and design, and fictional world environments that hint at a larger narrative. I draw from my background in laying the groundwork for written stories to deeply develop the concepts behind my work, and I hint at the stories woven into my art through hidden details that the viewer is encouraged to slowly spot (and hence craft their own understanding of) on their own. I use my art to better understand myself and my experiences, and to hopefully help others who relate to them.

The Alternator Gallery is a hidden gem of Kelowna that I only found out goes beyond the Members Gallery recently. Even so, it’s a very special place to me. I’ve been told that the Alternator is committed to giving opportunities to new and experimenting artists, and their dedication to this reassures me that I will be able to build my portfolio and get shows even if I’m trying something new or don’t have a huge amount of experience. It’s also quite inspiring to be able to see art from artists who are closer to starting out their career, as only seeing more established artists can be quite intimidating. The Alternator makes becoming a full-time artist feel more achievable.

The Alternator is also one of the few art hubs of Kelowna, which Kelowna truly needs, and the Rotary Centre is where I first started getting back into the art world after my house burnt down in the 2023 wildfires. I took a scene study class with New Vintage Theatre, and I’d always wander over to the Members Gallery during breaks to stare at. It made me feel closer to art even when I was in a creative slump myself, and I always found it very comforting and inspiring. I really appreciate the Alternator Gallery for facilitating that.