Making Connections with Tofino Artists and Makers – Part Two of Two, The Makers

It’s a fact that bears repeating – Tofino has long been home to a diverse artist and artisan community.  With inspiration nudged by the cleansing ocean air, the everchanging landscape of our beaches, and the quiet of our mossy old-growth forest, many Tofitians wield some serious talent.  Here’s a roundup of where you’re likely to meet some of our local creatives:

The Tofino Market
It’s a Saturday go-to, from May’s Victoria Day weekend to the beginning of October.  Our market is mostly focused on artisans rather than a traditional farmer’s market – because Tofino is anything but traditional!   It’s where you’ll meet more than 30 Westcoasters, crafting everything from jewelry, body care products, wooden toys, fine art and home products, to pottery and some treats.

The Factory Tofino
Some makers “graduate” from their start at the market, opening their own retail space.   A warm, modern interior houses a collaborative workspace and store for jeweler Lisa Fletcher, leather goods designer Julie Boocock (who works on her Market Canvas brand), and nature photographer Kyler Vos.

Merge Curated Goods
This small, light pink building is tucked away by Common Loaf Bake Shop, near the corner of Campbell and First Streets.  Here, Laurie Boudreault runs her graphic – and jewelry – design businesses in a studio and retail space that showcases independent artisans from near and far.

Did you miss Part One of this blog post series?  Read it here.