Take a stroll down any main street of any town across the province and you’re bound to find something that’s one of a kind. Arts and crafts, you see, are an extension of our creativity. And creativity runs deep in this place. For the past 500 years, we’ve used our inventiveness and curiosity to create the most unique crafts – everything from fine art to hooked rugs to fresh partridgeberry jam.
We could tell you where to shop and what to buy, but discovering for yourself all the little treasures we’ve made with our own hands is what makes shopping here such a unique experience.
The natural beauty of this place, the quirkiness and charm of the people – even the way the sun reflects on the hills – are all inspiration for our many fine artists. Colours and themes can be found all over – and on the canvases and carvings of artists all over Newfoundland and Labrador.
For the past 500 years, we’ve used our inventiveness and curiosity to create the most spectacular crafts – everything from knitted trigger mitts to rugs that tell a story with their colours and textures to pottery thrown by people who get their ideas from the sea.
Go for a jaunt, for example, along the oldest street in North America – Water Street – in St. John’s, the oldest city in North America. One side of the street will take the whole morning, while the other might take most of the afternoon. Chat with friendly strangers, pop in for a quick bite, and then, if it comes to mind, pick something up that you’ll treasure for many years to come. Or if you’d rather find something really rare, go antiquing in one of our many quaint little towns across the province.
For more information about our creative craftsmanship and local artists, visit the Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Council Studio Guide.