Newfoundland and Labrador was well represented at this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence with local entrepreneurs receiving recognition. The 27th annual awards were presented at an event in Halifax during Craft East Buyers’ Expo on February 10, 2024.
East Coast Glow, owned by Karen and Roger Dewling, was named Outstanding Exporter, which recognizes an individual, organization or company for exporting achievement of craft or giftware outside Atlantic Canada.
Using plant-based ingredients and pure iceberg water, East Coast Glow creates highly effective skincare products with a mission to connect people with nature through sustainable, wildcrafted skincare. With a production facility and retail storefront in Bonavista, their products, which range from soaps and body cleansers to salves, lotions and lip balms, are also sold online, through retail craft fairs, in their shop and across Canada.
To build on their exporting success, East Coast Glow is focusing efforts on the international market in 2024.
The Glass Station in Rocky Harbour received the award for Outstanding Retailer, which recognizes excellence in display, merchandising and service to the public.
In addition to displaying the work of owner and maker Urve Manuel, the Glass Station features the work of a number of craftspeople and visual artists, the majority of whom are based in Newfoundland and Labrador. The shop shows a curated selection of fine craft, designed and chosen to represent the Gros Morne region and to provide visitors with memories of their experiences in the province.
The craft shop and gallery also hosts special events and visitors, invites residents to participate in charitable efforts and works with partners to accelerate the growth of regional tourism.
The Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence are presented annually in conjunction with the Craft East Buyers’ Expo, which showcases craft and giftware made exclusively in the Atlantic Provinces.
Quotes
“Congratulations to East Coast Glow and the Glass Station for their accomplishment at this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence. It always makes me proud to see what craftspeople from this province can accomplish and we are happy to continue to support traditional and contemporary artists build and grow their creative initiatives.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“Congratulations to all recipients of this year’s Atlantic Canada Craft Awards for Excellence, especially Newfoundland and Labrador’s own East Coast Glow and The Glass Station. Our province is home to so many creative and unique artisans who contribute to the vibrancy and heritage of our communities. As we celebrate the Year of the Arts this year, it is the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors to support local artisans and craftspeople on their adventures throughout the province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Craft Industry Strategy 2023-2025
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