In 1994 a group of 12 artists in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island met to discuss the need for a permanent showcase for selling their artwork beyond the usual venues of craft fairs and exhibitions. Though the initial group changed, a core group of 9 opened their first tiny storefront in downtown Duncan in August of that year. They called themselves IMAGINE THAT! ARTISANS' DESIGNS. They are a Registered Co-operative.
August 2023 marked the beginning of the 30th year in business for this very successful artist-run store. All work is juried and is of very high quality, with price ranges for even the smallest budget. The Members are proud of their long record supporting local Cowichan artists and other artists from Vancouver Island. Mid way between Victoria and Nanaimo, their great location is at the heart of the Cowichan Valley in historic downtown Duncan. IMAGINE THAT! is a pleasant place to turn off the TransCanada and have an artistic "refuelling" stop. Look for the red brick City Hall. We're across the square.
Imagine that! is proudly Canadian, with works made all over Vancouver Island, as well as on some of the adjacent smaller islands. The work of 60-some professional artisans and artists is featured.
Each day, you will meet one of our working artists helping to operate the shop and make it the success it is. Come in and say hello.
Store Hours
Tuesday through Friday, 11 am to 4 pm
Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm
Jake Humphrey: Pacifica Woodwork and Design
March 28 - April 26, 2024
Jake Humphrey's motto is "designed by nature, crafted by hand." He creates one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, charcuterie boards, and kitchen accessories from locally sourced wood, using the natural racks and fissures that form as wood dries, and the natural colours of each wood to enhance the designs.
Catherine Fraser: Paintings
March 28 - April 26, 2024
Catherine Fraser is an accomplished multi-media artist, art therapist, and public speaker. She works in oils, acrylic, watercolour, graphite, and pastels, and is constantly exploring and experimenting with new artistic responses to the world around her.