Hi! I'll be visiting PEI in a few days and would like to shop for some art (preferably contemporary painting). Where Should I start? Is there a list or directory of Island painters?

Hi James,

Prince Edward Island has many wonderful artists!  In eastern PEI, wander into 'Artisans Waterfront' in Montague, and 'Artisans on Main' in Souris.  Down by Wood Islands you will find 'Red Cliff Gallery' with artwork by Lorraine Vatcher.  

In Charlottetown, I would suggest 'Details Fine Art Gallery' on Victoria Row.

Susan Christiansen has a studio in New Glasgow, and a short distance away 'The Dunes Studio, Gallery & Cafe' has a fine selection of artists using varied mediums.  While there, take time to visit the beautiful gardens and peruse the stunning pottery made on site as well as the 'one of a kind' jewellery by Eve Llyndorah.  *The artworks shown on the website are not a true depiction of what is there this year. I visited 'The Dunes' in July and the array of 100+ paintings was very impressive.

A new gallery on the wharf in Stanley Bridge is 'Tall Pines Studio', operated by artists John Frederick Cox and Danielle White.  John's art is very colourful and exuberant.  Danielle's work can have a bit of whimsy, and her Island scenes capture the essence of the fields, water and light.  

An artist whose work I am quite captivated by is Emily Howard. She doesn't show in a gallery, but sells her work online. 

In addition, I would suggest picking up a copy of the PEI Arts and Heritage Trail 2022. This easy to use guide has listings for art studios, galleries, and craft shops across PEI.

Enjoy your search and I hope you find a piece of artwork (or two) to treasure for a long time!

Charlene Belsher