After graduating with a Textile Arts diploma in 1996 I returned to to my hometown of Nanaimo to try my hand at being self employed as a textile artist. I began making products under the name of Artzi Stuff to sell in stores on consignment, through a local catalogue and at the occasional craft show. In 1999 I began teaching fabric art through Artists in the Schools and various summer art camps. I enjoyed both very much but after twelve years was looking for a new opportunity.

Each year since 1996 I had held a winter open studio which at first featured only my work but grew to showcasing the work of up to seventeen people.  I loved organizing these shows and meeting the people who attended. I would hate having to return the work to the artists when it was over. Those experiences made me consider one day opening my own store. Finally the time was right and a wonderful store front became available before I had even decided I wanted to open a store. I jumped at the opportunity and immediately started emailing all the great artists I had met over the years. I opened on October 2, 2008 only six weeks after seeing the for lease sign. Five years later in October 2013 Artzi Stuff moved downtown Nanaimo to a light filled gorgeous 1890 building with twice as much square footage. 

When you shop at Artzi Stuff you can take pride in knowing the products are made for passion, rather than big profits and that your money is supporting local artists who will in turn spend their money locally. I hope to see you soon.

 

Tanya Streeter

 

 

 

local + handmade = uniquely fabulous

 

  There are constant updates to the over 150 photos on the facebook page

Click here and you don't have to join to have a look. 

http://www.facebook.com/ArtziStuff

 

 

2 Church Street downtown Nanaimo

Vancouver Island BC  Canada 250-716-8989