The Sunshine Coast BC Picking Program is a new venture that is bound to have lots of appeal. Fruit is ripening faster than it can be picked. The program invites volunteers to pick fruit for landowners who are not able, for whatever reason, to do it themselves. The harvest is shared between owners, volunteers and charities, and the “imperfect” bounty goes to local farms for their animals. As a bonus, removing ripe fruit reduces bear attractants.
Halfmoon Bay resident Marina Peault, who is bringing the program to the Sunshine Coast, says, “I heard about the one that runs in Squamish to great success. So I got inspired because its a win-win for everyone!” Indeed, the Squamish Climate Action Network runs the Squamish Fruit Tree Project in partnership with SOLscapes. If you are a homeowner in need of assistance, or if you would like to volunteer, please call Marina at 604-388-9240 or reach out to her via the program’s Facebook page. This program is in its formation stages; let’s help Marina bring it to life!
As a segue into my next topic…if you need a hand-crafted bowl to put your fruit in…
The 2023 Pottery Prowl is coming to the Sunshine Coast July 8th and 9th from 10 to 5 p.m. Ceramic artists will be showcasing their pottery prowess on this self-guided open studio and pottery sale tour from Langdale to Earls Cove. Fourteen locations will feature functional ware as well as decorative and sculptural creations in a variety of styles. Drawing inspiration from our coastline, the colours and textures of nature, these artists create a myriad of pottery such as birdhouses, baskets, murals, teapots, bowls, platters, sinks and fountains. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a unique gift, the Pottery Prowl will not disappoint.
Local Halfmoon Bay artist, Naomi Brand of Huckleberry Studio, one of the participating artists, belonged to the now defunct Coast Potters Guild in 1992. Her pottery is unique and colourful, inspired by nature and the colours of sea glass. She’s making nautilus bowls and plates with a seaweed influence for the Prowl. Her blue mugs are painted with wild clay from the cliffs at Fullerton Beach in Halfmoon Bay. You’ll find Naomi at the Sechelt Artisans and Farmers Market; she’ll have tour maps and artist information at her market booth. You can also reach her at IG @huckleberrystudio or by calling 604-740-6248.
Marilyn Downey, another Halfmoon Bay resident who has been a potter on the Coast for many years, invites visitors to experience her backyard studio of whimsical garden art. She also creates distinctive black and white functional pieces in a modern style. Marilyn sold pottery at the 2023 Halfmoon Bay Nursery spring market; I remember stopping by her booth to marvel at her stylistic creations. Marilyn can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 604-740-6330.
If you have a topic, a community event, or a story you would like to share, contact me at [email protected].
