Meet Carly, she's lived in Kamloops her whole life!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My father Gord. He too is an artist, and I always love our time together.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Swiss Chalet is a wonderful restaurant with great staff and quality food. They have also been an incredible contributor to the community.
Describe yourself in one word.
Passionate.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment, where would you go and why?
My fiancé and I love to travel, and we still have many places we want to visit. We are avid scuba divers, so we look forward to visiting the Maldives!
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Synchronized swimming at the Canada Games Aquatic Center.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Every time I see someone pick up a paintbrush who has never painted in their life — this inspires me to keep motivating and encouraging others to try something new!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I'm a proud member of the Kiwanis Club in Kamloops. I also do fundraisers for local groups such as the Boys and Girls Club, KELLI, Pommy and Pals, Red Cross, and the Child Development Center.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
It's not technically alone, but taking my dog on hikes and to play in the river is my personal way to refresh my mind and re-energize my creativity!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I'd like to see positive change in Kamloops for local businesses and the art community.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
I love the community, the people, and the many opportunities that this town offers for local artists.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Setting up a studio for classes, artists, and anyone looking for somewhere to be creative.
2. Exploring the Yongala shipwreck off the coast of Queensland Australia.
3. Baby goat!
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have always loved to paint, teach, and inspire. Kamloops Art Party has made all three of those things possible!
What is the goal of your business?
To provide a fun and creative experience for people of all ages and abilities, and to help other local artists pursue their passions further.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Living with scoliosis and fibromyalgia has been a struggle, but I try my best not to let it interfere with my abilities and passion!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Keep doing what you love. Don't stop trying new things and improving your skills.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My cousin Mike in Australia. He was such an important person when I was growing up, and I would love to spend a day with him like we did when we were younger.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
As I am a local business owner, I see the importance of shopping locally. It's important to help build a strong community and encourage one-of-a-kind businesses.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Winning the silver at Nationals with my synchronized swimming team.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Daryl Snell, the community ambassador for Swiss Chalet. He loves Kamloops, and has over 60 partnerships with local groups and non-profits.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
My father, Gord Schmidt.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community and is a way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kamloops!
