You don’t have to be an artist to take home some incredible images of your time in Sointula. The stunning landscapes that surround Malcolm Island make it easy for anyone with a camera to capture some amazing pictures that you’ll love to display and show off when you return home.
But if you’re looking for another unique way to remember your time in this special place, you’re in luck. Despite its small size, Sointula has a thriving art scene and is home to a number of private studios, galleries, and gift shops selling locally-made artwork and other products. If you’re looking for a fun and unique souvenir, check out these spots during your next visit.
Sointula Art Shed
The Sointula Art Shed is a small, artist-run artist residency. A cottage with a studio provides a home for the project’s current artist in residency, while a window gallery gives visitors a look at their most recent projects.
The goal of this project is to provide visitors and locals alike with a small gallery that’s always open. The window sometimes features work by the current artist in residence, as well as art created by other locals. A variety of types of art is displayed, and past creations have included both visual and musical art projects.
Betty Carlson Art
Located near the Malcolm Island Harbour dock, this gallery features original paintings, mixed media, and other art items by artist Betty Carlson. The gallery isn’t open on a set schedule. Instead, look for the open sign, or call ahead to make an appointment.
Art for the Soul
Art for the Soul is a studio that features the art of local Jan Rosgen. Jan’s work is largely inspired by scenes found around Malcolm Island. In the studio, you can purchase a variety of framed and unframed paintings, as well as prints, coloring books, art cards, and more. Jan’s book, “You ARE an Artist” is also available for sale in the studio. The studio usually opens for visitors by 11 a.m. each day, though you can call ahead to check the hours.
Harmony Gardens Gallery
Harmony Gardens is another local gallery showcasing the work of several local artists. Local artist Deb Wiggins creates fused glass bowls, plates, panels, ornaments, and more. You’ll also find art cards, canvas prints, and books created by photographer Dan Hilbert. Both the glass and photography products are inspired by local scenes, including plenty of sea life. The gallery is not open on a set schedule, so look for the sign or call ahead to make an appointment to stop in and shop for a unique souvenir.
Middleton Park Studio
If you prefer unique handmade items that you can wear, plan a stop at Middleton Park Studio. This studio features hand-knitted items made by a local artist. You’ll find hats, traditional Sointula ‘toques, gloves, and more. Look for the sign letting you know that the studio is open, or call ahead at (250) 973-2053 to make an appointment to stop by.
Sedna Designs Studio
Another great spot for finding beautiful art that you can wear and enjoy is Sedna Designs Studio. Located just a short walk from the ferry dock, this studio features handcrafted gemstone and pearl jewelry, all set in sterling silver, 14k gold, or copper. The studio is usually open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Their online store also makes it easy to shop locally-made products from anywhere.
Janet Etter Folk Art Shack
The Janet Etter Folk Art Shack features the work of local folk artist Janet Etter. Janet specializes in painting tug boats, those who work on them, and the marine life that lives off the coast of Malcolm Island. The studio is open regularly, and a sign outside lets you know when visitors are welcome. You can also call ahead to make an appointment to check out the beautiful art and to shop for a special souvenir. Art cards created by Janet are also available at several other studios and galleries in Sointula and on nearby Alert Bay.
The Tidal Zone Studio
Local artist Wendy Davis specializes in creating a variety of homemade products and artwork, including gillnet rugs, hooked rugs, photo cards, calendars, and sterling silver jewelry. You can view and purchase her work at The Tidal Zone Studio. The studio is open by appointment only.
The Wild Lil’ Gift Shop
This gift shop is located in the heart of downtown Sointula. and brings a variety of unique art and other products to tourists and locals alike. The Wild Lil’ Gift Shop is a great place to look for original art by local artists. Alongside art and prints, you’ll also find t-shirts and other great souvenirs.
Wood & Water Studio
The Wood & Water Studio features coastal-inspired woodwork by local wood carving artist Tim Motchman and watercolor artist Sheila Roote. This studio is open by appointment only. You can call ahead for an appointment at (250) 973-6390.
Planning Your Next Getaway to Sointula
If you love checking out locally-inspired art and shopping for unique souvenirs, this list is a great guide for your next visit to Sointula. Call ahead of your trip to schedule appointments to the galleries that interest you, and spend a day or two exploring and enjoying some unique shopping.
Ready to start planning your next visit to Sointula? Start by choosing the right lodging option for you.