Imagine That! Artisans' Designs, Duncan

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 2025 marked the beginning of the 32nd year in business for this successful artist-run store. All work is juried and is of 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

Michael Dean: Spirit of the Island

September 26 - October 24, 2025

Artist Michael Dean captures the history and spirit of Vancouver Island in his realistic impressions of working coastal vessels, forests, and beach scenes. Using both watercolours and oils, Michael's paintings are well-known for their finely crafted details.

Andre St. Cyr: Creative Woodwork

September 26 - October 24, 2025

A school teacher for 33 years, throughout his career he created beautiful wooden products and honed his woodworking skills. Now retired, he is able to spend more time in his shop. Andre prefers to work with unique pieces of wood with colour variation, figure, and bird's eye.