Gallery of Artisans "GoA"
Location:
Hours of Business:
Phone:
Web Address:
811 Fort Street
Monday to Sunday 10 am to 5:30 pm
380-9505
www.gobc.ca/GoA
Chosen for:
A Non-Profit Artist's Co-op
Elegant-To-Fun Handmade Items
Featuring 13 Local Artists
John Robertson was initially perplexed when the inquisitive Grapeviners crowded into The Gallery of Artisans, "GoA" on December 3rd, 2005, to announce that they had been chosen best-of-the-bunch for the month. His confusion quickly turned to enthusiasm once we explained The Grapevine concept.
John is a potter and one of 13 artists that form the collective that is the basis for this wonderful eclectic display of talent. Because each artist takes turns working in the store, there is always someone on hand with extensive knowledge about the artists and their work. A great destination for the curious shopper!
The Gallery of Artisans formed last January and the store opened on July 18th, 2005. Owned and operated by the artists themselves, it is designed to operate in a "not for profit" manner. A portion of revenue covers operating expenses, with any remainder going back to the artisan.
Near the entrance we found scarves woven of the softest fabrics. Browsers pulled one another over to share a particular favourite among the unique pottery, variety of silver jewelry, old-fashioned wooden toys and hand-painted greeting cards. Colourful personality-rich metal fish hung from the ceiling and small metal lizards crawled across a shelf. One section featured stained glass, an intricate wooden silverware box, quilling work, small beaded purses and beautiful small cloth purses that at least five women lusted after!
Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special? Check out GoA selections to earn big Brownie points!
"Such initiatives [as The Grapevine] give one much needed optimism in this rather hard-nosed world... to have an act of support and kindness from total strangers in the business world is a restorative balm for the weathered old soul."
- stoneware
- porcelain
- earthenware
- wooden folk art
- paper filigree
- metal sculptures
- faux chenille clothing
- hand-crafted furniture
- traditional stained glass
- beach glass art