Is it the mountains? The lofty air? Lynn Valley has a history of artists, crafters and makers. We’ve shared stories of painters, a carver and even a knife maker. The forests have been a source of inspiration from time immemorial for local First Nations. Later Frederick Varley from the Group of Seven fell in love with the canyons and today the next generation of digital artists are pushing the boundaries of art at Argyle Secondary. We have selected a few creators to appreciate and support this season. Click here for our 2024 shop local guide.
Our pick for custom designs and kids doing good
Studio One34
Studio One34 – a non-profit social enterprise/club from Argyle’s Digital Media Academy – is hosting a Winter Bazaar in the school cafeteria on December 11th & 12th, from 6-9 pm (or order here). At the bazaar products such as handmade leather journals, earrings, tote bags, and t-shirts will be sold, with all money raised going back into supporting the school’s design programs. This event will be focused on providing students with real-world experience in the areas of design and business. The students are also available to produce custom designs for gifts or business promotions throughout the year. Check out LynnValleyLife’s Christmas tree in the Village – Studio One34 did our custom ornaments. Gift Pick: the leather journals.
Our pick to keep the kids busy
Monika’s Art-Boutique & Studio
There is a delightful pop-up store from Monika’s Art-Boutique & Studio (we wrote about this new business this spring) filled with local artists’ works. The small shop has the best deal in the shopping centre: purchase a $5 ornament and get a free drop-in art class. With tables outside with a weekly craft, shoppers are invited to let their littles take a break from the bustle and get creative. Gift Pick: the handmade bonus ornaments, although there is an amazing handpainted skateboard deck…
Our pick honouring handicrafts
Victoria Yahara Studio
Victoria Yahara has been selling her locally made items since her first market stall at the Great Neighbourhood Garage Sale. The self-taught printmaker transfers her original illustrations to a lino block and delicately carves the designs. She then uses archival oil-based ink to print it onto fine art paper with a small hand-operated printing press. Everything is done by hand from start to finish. She has three main collections “The Language of Flowers”, the Paper Butterfly Collection and the Paper Quilt series. The postal strike is hitting this small business hard but she can arrange for a local Lynn Valley pick up of her linocut artwork, tea towels, tote bags, notebooks, bookmarks, stickers and ornaments or visit her Saturday, Dec. 7th at the St Andrews and St Stephen’s Presbyterian Church in North Van from 9 am-4 pm and then a Lonsdale Quay Pop Up on Dec. 14th, 11 am-6 pm. Gift Pick: her tea towels – we love functional art!
Our pick for delivering a smile
Mountain Market
There is nothing like the unexpected delight of receiving flowers – especially in the dark of winter. Mountain Market has been the go-to for decades and new owners Steve and Natasha Shim are continuing the tradition of great value and beautiful bouquets. Their seasonal offerings have some great table toppers and the perfect host gifts. Stop by for their ever-changing options. Gift pick: can’t beat the Grinch trees to bring a smile.
Our pick for the gift of knowledge
Author Louise Allison
Local author and financial coach Louise Allison has released a new book, The First $100K: Your Guide to Financial Independence. It is a new personal finance guide designed specifically for those looking to break free from paycheque-to-paycheque living and take control of their financial future. It offers clear, actionable advice to help readers of all backgrounds and incomes build wealth and achieve a more secure financial life. With rising costs and financial uncertainty, The First $100K addresses challenges unique to young professionals, newly single individuals, and anyone feeling trapped by financial limitations. The book provides a roadmap to save, invest, and ultimately amass their first $100,000 — the foundation of lifelong financial independence. The First $100K is available online now and in bookstores in the new year.
Looking for more?
There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.
