Salt Spring Island is a creative hub for artists, featuring studios that highlight pottery, glassblowing, weaving, metalwork, and more. Here are 8 must-visit artisan studios offering unique crafts and hands-on experiences:
- The Glass Foundry: Eco-friendly glass art with live demos and workshops.
- SAORI Salt Spring Weaving Studio: Free-form weaving classes and retreats.
- Butterfly Pottery Studio: Handcrafted ceramics inspired by diverse techniques.
- Blue Horse Folk Art Gallery: Folk art sculptures and raku pottery.
- Steven Friedman Photography: Stunning Pacific Northwest landscapes.
- Bodega Gallery Art and Ceramics: Pottery and paintings inspired by the West Coast.
- Lori Davies Textiles: Hand-dyed, eco-friendly woven textiles.
- Gossamer Steel Custom Metal: Artistic metalwork for homes and businesses.
Plan your visit with the self-guided Salt Spring Island Studio Tour, marked by black sheep signs, and enjoy workshops, live demos, and unique creations.
Rolando & Kasumi | Bodega Gallery
1. The Glass Foundry
Located at 401 Upper Ganges Rd. on Salt Spring Island, The Glass Foundry showcases a unique approach to glass artistry. Using energy-efficient furnaces, it turns scrap glass into stunning handcrafted pieces, combining creativity with sustainability.
Step inside, and you’ll find a range of coastal-inspired creations. From deep blue sea stars and lifelike seahorses to delicate oyster shells and quirky banana slug sculptures, the studio’s work captures the essence of the island. You’ll also spot displays made from repurposed vintage insulators, blending functionality with charm.
Visitors can watch live glassmaking demonstrations, offering a captivating look at this ancient craft. Feeling inspired? The studio also hosts hands-on classes and workshops, giving you the chance to create your own glass art.
Highlights from the collection include:
- Marine-Inspired Pieces: Sea stars, seahorses, and oyster shells crafted with exquisite detail
- Functional Art: Beautiful vases and bowls that combine form and function
- Eco-Conscious Creations: Giftware made from recycled glass
For demonstration and workshop schedules, call 250-537-9200. This stop is a perfect introduction to the island’s vibrant art culture.
2. SAORI Salt Spring Weaving Studio
SAORI Salt Spring Weaving Studio takes a unique, free-spirited approach to weaving. As part of the SAORI Global Network, the studio challenges the rigid rules of traditional weaving with its "weaving from the heart" philosophy.
This relaxed, intuitive method makes it a great place for anyone interested in exploring weaving. Here’s what visitors can experience:
- Try It Classes: Perfect for beginners looking to dip their toes into weaving.
- In-Person Workshops: Hands-on sessions that cover various weaving techniques.
- Private Sessions: One-on-one lessons tailored to individual needs.
The studio also offers weaving retreats, which are open to everyone – no prior experience needed. These retreats introduce participants to SAORI techniques, teach basic weaving skills, and cover warping and clothing design principles. Instead of following strict patterns, the focus is on letting creativity flow naturally and collaborating to create something truly personal.
In addition to classes, the studio serves as a Canadian distributor for SAORI equipment. It offers looms, specialized yarns, and pre-wound warps, along with a selection of unique retail textiles. Whether you’re a seasoned weaver or just curious about the craft, SAORI Salt Spring Weaving Studio provides an inspiring way to experience the art of weaving, all while capturing the creative essence of Salt Spring Island.
3. Butterfly Pottery Studio
Located at 281 Vesuvius Bay Rd on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, Butterfly Pottery Studio is run by ceramic artist Monica Rittenour. Monica combines wheel-thrown and hand-built ceramic techniques, drawing inspiration from her diverse background in carpentry, tile laying, mosaics, and knitting to create her unique pieces.
4. Blue Horse Folk Art Gallery
Located on Salt Spring Island, the Blue Horse Folk Art Gallery celebrates the island’s vibrant artistic spirit. Run by local artists Anna Gustafson and Paul Burke, the gallery features a range of folk art that reflects the charm and character of island life. Each exhibit showcases the unique talents of its co-owners.
Paul Burke’s animal sculptures are a highlight of the gallery. Using locally sourced materials like curved apple tree branches, cedar roots, and weathered juniper, his creations beautifully reflect the island’s natural surroundings. His storytelling shines through works like the well-known Mrs. Drysdale’s Circus collection.
Anna Gustafson brings her own flair with raku vases, lamps, and encaustic paintings, demonstrating her diverse artistic skills.
"Now, living and working on Salt Spring Island, I feel the last piece of the puzzle is in place."
Visitors can explore not only the artwork but also the lush gardens and artists’ studios, offering a fully immersive experience. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces captures the essence of Salt Spring Island’s creative community.
5. Steven Friedman Landscape Photography
Steffich Fine Art, located at 149 Fulford Ganges Rd #101 on Salt Spring Island, BC, offers visitors a chance to view Steven Friedman’s stunning landscape photography. His images highlight the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, often showcasing remote and hard-to-reach areas through carefully crafted compositions.
Friedman’s process involves revisiting locations over several years to capture them in the best light and seasonal conditions. Using high-end cameras like Horseman, Hasselblad, and Canon, he creates images with extraordinary detail.
"My advice for photographers is try and avoid the iconic locations and imagery and create unique intimate landscape images that resonate with the viewer."
Each photograph is printed as an UltraChrome K3 archival pigment print, designed to last over 70 years. While slight color adjustments are made in Adobe Photoshop, these edits stay true to the original scene while enhancing its emotional impact.
The gallery also features works from diverse locations, including Patagonia in Chile, the Canadian Rockies, and Gatineau Park. Limited edition prints start at $750 CAD (approximately $562 USD). Signature pieces like "Pacific Crashing" and "Autumn Leaves" are priced at $1,850 CAD (around $1,385 USD), while "Seven Trees" is available for $1,450 CAD (about $1,085 USD).
This collection reflects the artistic spirit of Salt Spring Island, offering a variety of styles and landscapes.
"Friedman seeks pure and breathtaking landscapes and then patiently waits for the perfect light – the magic light that elevates the ordinary to a place that vibrates within the viewer’s consciousness."
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6. Bodega Gallery Art and Ceramics
Bodega Gallery Art and Ceramics highlights the creative works of Kasumi and Rolando Lampitoc, both inspired by the rugged beauty of the West Coast.
Kasumi’s pottery blends functionality with artistic charm, reflecting the natural landscapes of the region. You can view her collection at kasumipottery.com.
Rolando’s paintings, on the other hand, showcase his skill across various mediums, including encaustic (a mix of heated beeswax and pigments), oil, and watercolor. Each piece offers a unique take on West Coast scenery.
To explore Rolando’s work, visit rolando.lampitoc.com. Be sure to call ahead, as the featured pieces may vary.
7. Lori Davies Textiles
Nestled in Fulford Valley, just 4.3 miles south of Ganges, Lori Davies Textiles is a studio known for its hand-dyed textiles that blend old-world craftsmanship with modern design. The studio has gained attention for its dedication to quality and environmentally conscious practices.
Under the guidance of master weaver Diane Mortensen, Lori Davies creates tableware on a 19th-century floor loom, combining European weaving traditions with a West Coast flair.
Here’s a look at some of the handcrafted items available:
| Category | Price Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Scarves | $145–$220 | Includes the "Island Tides" collection, inspired by coastal sunset gradients |
| Table Linens | $32–$45 | Features handwoven tea towels and runners with geometric designs |
| Gift Items | $12–$45 | Includes limited-edition ornaments and handcrafted bookmarks |
Visitors can enjoy a 45-minute live demo every Friday at 11:00 AM from March to October. For a more hands-on experience, the 3-hour ‘Intro to Weaving’ workshop is available on select Saturdays for $95. Participants receive a handwoven coaster and a 10% same-day discount.
The studio prioritizes local and eco-friendly materials, sourcing 80% of its supplies within 50 miles. This includes wool from Salt Spring’s Fairburn Farm and 100% biodegradable fibers dyed with non-toxic materials.
Visitor Tips:
- Summer Hours (May–September): Open daily from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Off-Season: Visits by appointment only
- Address: 296 Mobrae Avenue
- Private Viewings: Call 250‑537‑1321 to schedule
- Nearby Dining: Combine your visit with lunch at the Farmhouse Café
For those looking for textiles that reflect Salt Spring Island’s artistic roots, Lori Davies Textiles offers a memorable experience. Don’t miss the "Seconds Shelf", where you can find discounted pieces at 20–40% off regular prices, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the island.
8. Gossamer Steel Custom Metal
Gossamer Steel Custom Metal, well-known on Salt Spring Island, takes raw metal and turns it into stunning creations like art doors, wine room panels, and custom facades for homes and businesses. Led by artisan Michelle Sturley, the studio blends artistic design with practical craftsmanship, showcasing a unique take on industrial metalwork.
How to Plan Your Studio Visits
Planning your Salt Spring Island studio tour takes a bit of preparation to make the most of your time. With a self-guided tour system, you can explore at your own pace while ensuring you hit all the must-see spots.
Getting Around Made Easy
Look out for the blue and white sheep signs scattered across the island to guide your way. For added convenience, download the PDF version of the studio tour map so you can access it offline. Once you’re set with navigation, check out the workshops offered by various studios.
Workshops to Check Out
Some studios provide hands-on experiences, but these often require advance planning. For example, the Salt Spring Island Printmakers Society runs workshops throughout the year. Their mentored studio days happen every Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM (except in July and August), and your first visit is free. Registration starts on January 6th at 9:00 AM.
Make sure to confirm each studio’s hours and workshop availability directly on their website or by giving them a call.
Where to Stay
Once your itinerary is ready, pick a central place to stay. Mariner’s Loft, located above Ganges Harbour, is a great option for easy access to the island’s attractions.
Workshop Pricing Details
| Activity Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mentored Studio Day | 5 hours | $20 |
| Annual Society Membership | 1 year | $30 |
| First-Time Visit | 5 hours | Free |
Extra Tips
To get on waitlists for fully booked sessions, email [email protected]. You can also sign up for the Salt Spring Island Printmakers Society mailing list to stay in the loop about upcoming events and exhibitions.
Final Thoughts
Salt Spring Island is well-known as a hub for artists in North America, where talented craftspeople keep a vibrant creative community alive. These eight studios showcase outstanding skill and allow visitors a close-up look at the artistic process.
Each visit provides a personal, hands-on experience with the island’s crafts. From ceramics to glasswork, the variety of art reflects the island’s rich cultural mix, with every studio offering its own unique take on creativity.
These studios play a key role in preserving the island’s artistic traditions through workshops and time-tested techniques. Visitors can connect with local artistry by learning directly from master craftspeople in interactive sessions. The self-guided studio tour gives art lovers the chance to explore and support the island’s thriving creative scene.
FAQs
What makes the artisan studios on Salt Spring Island special and worth visiting?
The artisan studios on Salt Spring Island offer a truly unique experience, showcasing a diverse range of handcrafted art forms such as pottery, textiles, jewelry, sculpture, and photography. Many studios are run by the artists themselves, giving visitors the chance to meet the creators, explore their creative spaces, and even participate in workshops.
One highlight is the Salt Spring Studio Tour, a self-guided tradition for over 30 years, where you can visit multiple studios at your own pace and immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant art scene. Whether you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces or a deeper connection to local craftsmanship, these studios provide an unforgettable cultural experience for art lovers and travelers alike.
How can I join workshops or hands-on activities at the artisan studios?
Many artisan studios on Salt Spring Island offer workshops and interactive experiences for visitors of all skill levels. For example, the Salt Spring Island Printmakers Society hosts year-round workshops where you can learn various printmaking techniques. They also provide Mentored Studio Tuesdays, where participants can bring their own materials and work on projects with guidance from an experienced mentor.
Be sure to check with individual studios for schedules, availability, and any materials you may need to bring. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local art scene while creating something unique to take home!
How can I plan a self-guided tour of artisan studios on Salt Spring Island?
Planning a self-guided tour of artisan studios on Salt Spring Island is easy and rewarding. Start by using the Salt Spring Island Studio Tour map, a long-standing guide that highlights local artisan studios across the island. You can download the map online or pick up a printed version once you arrive. Look for the iconic blue and white sheep signs along the roads, which will help you locate the studios.
For additional guidance, the Salt Spring Adventure Map is another great resource. It includes a detailed island map and a directory of galleries and studios, making it simple to plan your route and explore at your own pace. Be sure to check studio hours in advance, as they may vary by season or day of the week.