Island craft producers are pleased with the turn out at this year’s annual Prince Edward Island Studio Tour Weekend. Now in its eighth year, this popular weekend promotion is an excellent opportunity for craftspeople to share and demonstrate their talents. Although the sales are not yet available, the high traffic flow generated over the September weekend indicates another successful year.
“Prince Edward Island’s talented craftspeople are producing some of the most beautiful pieces in Canada,” said the Honourable Michael F. Currie, Minister of the Department of Development and Technology. “I look forward to this weekend every year so I can get out and see first-hand what these artists are creating. It is not only an entertaining way to meet the participants, it is also an opportunity to purchase some Island-made products and support this vibrant industry.”
Many sites around the province had artisans hosting demonstrations throughout the weekend. Whether you saw an artisan turning a wooden bowl, hooking a rug, or teaching a lesson on the weaver’s loom, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
“It was wonderful to see both tourists and locals in our studio,” said Teri Hall from Fire and Water Creations in Fortune. “Both groups enjoyed seeing the “artist” at work, and we all had fun. Our sales were up from last year and we wouldn’t hesitate to participate in the weekend event again.”
An Art & Craft Directory is distributed all summer long, allowing visitors and Islanders alike to find their way to Island gift shops, galleries and museums throughout the summer.
“We were really pleased to see both tourists and Islanders walking through our door,” said Brenda Watts from Brenda Watts Woodworking. “Visitors in general seemed interested in what I do and how my pieces are created. The Studio Tour Weekend is a great opportunity to share my work with people.”
The Studio Tour is an initiative of Prince Edward Island Business Development Inc. and Technology PEI to support and promote the vibrant craft and giftware industry in the province.
For more information, contact Marie Walsh at PEI Business Development at (902) 569-7787.
PEI Business Development Inc. and Technology PEI work with businesses in Prince Edward Island to strengthen and expand the provincial economy through business development. Adding value and generating wealth, PEI Business Development and Technology PEI offer a diverse range of programs and services to Island-based businesses.