From its early roots in a Lumby workshop, DWF Gallery Hardwood Designs has expanded and opened its doors on Vernon’s Kalamalka Lake Road.
Besides items made by owner Don Fortin, the operation features other B.C. artisans.
DWF Gallery and its wood boxes started through a website in 2002, and Fortin then became involved in artisan shows and wood shows throughout B.C. and Alberta.
“Before long, I was making jewelry boxes, ring boxes and display cases, plus many other customs made items,” he said.
“The website started to bring in customers from Canada, and the U.S.”
In 2006, Fortin was accepted by jury into the Wood Co-Op on Vancouver’s Granville Island, where a year later, he became a member of the board of directors.
He also became one of the founding members of the Village Gallery in Lumby.
With Fortin’s presence on the Internet, DWF Gallery Hardwood designs now have clients from the U.S, Ireland, England, France, and Australia and right here at home.
“Being open only two months now in Vernon, I am already busy with custom orders from New York and Alabama,” said Fortin.
“DWF Gallery has 10 local artisans working in the gallery with more to come.”
