The new owners of the Pottery Store in Chemainus are finding a balance between functional pieces and funky art.
Peggy and Brad Grigor purchased the gallery from a collective of artists last year.
The store itself has been open for 15 years.
“They (the collective) approached some of the local potters to see if any of us were interested in the store,” said Peggy.
“It just happened to be a good fit for us.”
The pair have just celebrated their one-year anniversary of ‘the passing of the torch.’
Peggy said it has been a great year in business, all of the potters stayed with the store and they were able to add a couple more.
“We’ve added a little more, kept all the old and are having a great time.”
The potters featured at the Pottery Store include: Josee and Victor Duffhues, Peggy, Harriet Hiemstra, John Robertson, Renee Sala and Ellen Statz.
Peggy said they also invite guest potters to be a part of the store for two-month periods.
“We ask them (local Vancouver Island or Gulf Island potters) to come and do an exhibition with us for a two-month period.
“We do that to add some diversity and interest to keep the local folks entertained.”
Interested potters can visit www.thepotterystore.ca and fill out an application.
Peggy said the store use to only feature the past owners’ works and they wanted to open up their products available.
Peggy said it was been a great Christmas season where they welcomed back many of their old customers.
“We have an awful lot of customers who come year after year, whether they’re visiting from Europe or the States or where ever.
“So that’s really what keeps the Pottery Store strong.”
Peggy said they have also introduced a new customer rewards program where every $200 spent earns them a $20 gift card.
Peggy noted the style of pottery has also changed.
What used to be primarily functional pottery (cups and bowls) has now expanded into more artistic pieces and designs.
“Now we’ve created a better balance between those looking for art collectables and functional work.”
The Pottery Store now also offers a wedding registry for brides- and grooms-to-be to come and select their favourites.
The Pottery Store is located at 9745 Willow Street in Chemainus.