This group of painters was formed in 2004 by artists with similar approaches to their independent genre of work. Sheila Adams, Todd Lachance, Margery McBride Elliott, Carolyn Oldale Adams, David J. Veres, Lorraine Whellams, along with Kevin Hagen, the newest member, comprise this group of painters. All of them are accomplished, professional painters and have a great passion for field painting, also known as "en plein air" painting.

As a group, they wanted to share in the camaraderie of going on trips together and foster a friendship beyond independent studio time. It seemed a natural fit to call themselves "The New 7" and create a new dynamic group for this century. In this era of modernism, a group such as "The New 7" can capture the interest of a highly demanding marketplace. They want to create a stir, and the only way to do that is to make a bold statement. "The New 7" has full intention of carrying on and making its mark on the landscape of Canada, with an emphasis on Western Canada.