Cheryl Coture, is a local potter from the Comox Valley who has been creating since 1998. Her work can be found in galleries throughout Vancouver Island including the Crow’s Nest in Campbell River.
When did you first start creating pottery?
I started in my grade 12 year in high school in 1998, we had a brand new school (Timberline) with a brand new studio and Jack Jackovich teaching. I went on to get my fine arts diploma in Vancouver and then did it on and off for many years till I finally got set up with a home studio 8 years ago.
Do you have a studio?
Yes, it’s my home garage and it’s not fancy but it does the job and I keep doing little things to make it more pleasant…I have french doors instead of garage doors now and a gas fireplace.
Do you at times open it to the public?
No… maybe one day but it’s not very big and still has garage things in it like tools and hockey gear.
Will you be selling your pieces at any markets or galleries this year?
The odd market, I’m signed up for the downtown street market in Courtenay but I mostly display and sell in stores now. My work can be found in: The Crows Nest in Campbell River, Be in Courtenay, Alcove in Qualicum as well as locations in Parksville, Nanaimo, Tofino and Ucluelet.
What do you enjoy about being a member of the Comox Valley Potters Club?
Well up till now I haven’t been able to be as active as I’d like since I still have a kid at home, I make a few meetings a year and the sales but having a little community is great and I’m looking forward to this coming year when my youngest is in school. I hope to make more meetings and take finally take advantage of workshops and the salt kiln.
What would you say to someone considering purchasing your pottery as a gift for someone?
Regardless of it being mine when you buy a local piece of art you’re supporting a person, promoting the arts and buying a piece of someone’s time. In the time of dollar stores artisans appreciate those who choose to shop local and pay for the amount of work that has gone into each piece.
“Don’t expect too much from yourself too soon, it can be a slow learning curve. Appreciate the process and nice pieces will happen eventually.” ~ Cheryl Coture’
Cheryl Coture
Campbell River, British Columbia