Having first opened in 1990, Handworks Gallery is Saint John’s longest running commercial gallery. On August 3rd, 2018, after four years of owning and operating the gallery, Lisa Oland announced to its artists that ownership would be changing hands once again.
As of August 1st, Handworks Gallery is under the ownership of Elizabeth Cook, who has been working as the gallery’s manager for the last year. An artist from South New Brunswick herself, Cook studied Fine Art at Mount Allison University and Photography at Holland College. She comes to Handworks with several years of experience working in Canada’s western art market at Gainsborough Galleries in Calgary, Alberta.
“Elizabeth has been part of the Handworks family for over a year now and I can think of no other person to move this gallery forward and continue to grow its reputation as the premier outlet for fine art, jewellery, pottery, woodwork, glass and sculpture,” says Oland. “I am very excited about handing off something that has been such a large part of my life to Elizabeth.”
Cook say she hopes that her experiences working in Alberta will bring something unique to New Brunswick, and will strengthen its arts and culture scene, as well as providing a benefit to local artisans.
“I am humbled by the support I have received from the artists, the community, as well as other entrepreneurs in the area.” says Cook. “Nothing makes me happier than promoting not only Saint John, but the Maritimes, Canada, and all the artists within to reach an audience eager to listen.”
“I believe in our Maritime artisans and what they have to offer, and I look forward to providing our customers with a wide range of one-of-a-kind works,” she says.
Both Oland and Cook have been working to ensure the transition is smooth for their artists and customers.
“We have been receiving a huge amount of support from the artists. Working with them for the past year and building that relationship has made the switch very natural,” says Cook.