IN AND AROUND CALGARY, ALBERTA
Davey Gravy is a commercial photographer and videographer based in Calgary, Alberta. Throughout his life he has always found beauty in the world around him. He shows a piece of his home through his lens - Calgary, Alberta.
My journey as an artist has taken me from street art to fine art, and now to photo and video. While my medium is constantly changing, one thing isn’t - our world is filled with inspiration and I want to capture it. While most people think of Calgary as a white-collar Alberta city, there is a buzzing creative community of supportive creators. Calgary is a big city with a small-town feel, people are friendly, quick to support you and eager to welcome you in true Canadian spirit. Calgary has become home to many large film sets, a growing number of bright murals, an incredibly diverse restaurant scene, and some of the best access to the Rocky Mountains.
Having spent many years exploring downtown Calgary and living there, it certainly has a special place in my heart. It is home to a growing art scene with the expansion of many murals and local artists and has some of the best restaurants and boutiques. But just a hop, and skip away, you’re back on the river path exploring our river valley and many parks with the backdrop of a gorgeous skyline
One of my favourite things about Calgary is that no matter the weather, people are keen to get out and experience their city, which is why you can find a festival every season of the year. Of course, there is the iconic Calgary Stampede, a mix of rodeo events, exhibition, and festival events that happens every July, bringing thousands of international visitors every year. Calgary is also home to music festivals like Folk Fest and Sled Island where music lovers can enjoy established and up-and-coming artists. As the weather cools we are also graced with the fun science-meets-art installations of Beakerhead. While some people might be deterred by the freezing temperatures, those willing to brave the snow will be rewarded with Chinook Blast’s celebration of winter.
With dozens of restaurants opening every month there is no end to the great food to try in Calgary, and it’s one of my favourite things about the city. Especially with how culturally diverse the city is, you can find a place that prides itself on farm-to-table local ingredients or try an array of cuisines on International Avenue from Vietnamese to Portuguese. The city is home to some well-known chefs and the top-rated restaurants in Canada.
One of Calgary’s most desirable aspects is its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. In just a short hour drive you are in the iconic town of Banff, and soon on the Icefields Parkway to the quiet town of Jasper. Along the way there are adventures of all kinds to be had. Whether you are looking for on or off the grid adventures, there is beauty to be seen through it all. If you’re looking to spot some classic wildlife or searching for that bucket list shot, there is no end of ways to explore our backyard.
See more of Davey’s work:
Instagram: @davey_gravey
Portfolio: https://www.daveygravy.ca/