Artist Lesia Anna is beaming over her latest accomplishment — her own booth at the Forks Market.

Anna has been painting and selling pieces out of the first floor booth, L.A. Art, since early May.

Her current location near centre court is part of the day table program and is temporary until a permanent location opens up on the second floor.

The East Kildonan resident has been working as an artist for 40 years, including an 11-year stint in Toronto before moving back to Winnipeg last year.

Anna said the response she has received from customers so far has been overwhelming.

"Winnipeg is a different market than Toronto. In Toronto wherever you were you could sell, but Winnipeg was more difficult," said Anna, who is represented by galleries across Canada including Birchwood Gallery here in Winnipeg.

"If you don’t do it big, people won’t notice. People love art here in Winnipeg."

In an effort to get more people involved in art, Anna offers live painting demonstrations and is also offering art lessons.

Susan Schmidt, office administrator  and day table co-ordinator at The Forks, said L.A. Art has been doing well since it opened.

"She’s doing phenomenal, and meeting all requirements when selling to the public such as different sizes, styles, and prices," she said.

"They’re very people-oriented as well. It’s a pleasure having them here."

Anna has come along way in her career, receiving a City of Toronto Award for Most Promising Newcomer in 2008, and she’s had the opportunity to work on pieces for celebrities such as Olivia Newton-John and Sir Ian McKellen.

As a result of her success, Anna is attempting to help other artists reach their full potential.

"What goes around comes around. Why keep it a secret? Artists are thankful for information I’m giving them to help market themselves," Anna said.

"We try to help other artists until they get established and make it on their own. We like to see people make it for themselves."

For more information contact Anna contact Anna at lcbord@hotmail.com.

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adrian.alleyne@canstarnews.com