Just a few months after his graduation from a North Island Collage jewelry-making class, Ernest Smith and his wife Darlene are proud to announce the opening of their new art gallery.
Located in downtown Campbell River, Awatin Aboriginal Art Gallery was opened a few months ahead of schedule thanks to an abundance of stock the couple accumulated and with financial assistance and business advice from NEDC (Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation).
The business logo is a native design eagle, which is called awatin in the Ehattesaht language.
The couple say they went to auctions, antique stores and, eventually, artists started coming to them with pieces they wanted to sell.
“We were going to open next year, but we accumulated so much stuff,” said Ernie. The couple rented space on the waterfront, near fisherman’s wharf in Campbell River. They took some time to renovate the space, then opened their doors in July, right in the middle of the most lucrative tourist season.
Even though they were a new business and missed a few months of tourist season, the Smiths said they made enough money to cover their rent in their first two hours of business.
Part of their success is due to the wide array of art and antiques. Ornate carvings, large and small, are featured on the walls; some from new artists and some that have passed on. They have carvings from the late Ambrose Howard and his son prominently displayed.
“These carvings are special because they are both gone,” said Ernie.
There is a great interest in rocks and crystals, so the couple keeps supplies in stock, selling product both in the store and through online sales.
“People are crazy about rocks,” said Ernie.
Another great feature of the new business is the in-store jewelry making shop. Customers can actually drop in and custom order pieces of jewelry.
“The rings are selling the fastest and people come back looking to order custom pieces; actually, I can’t keep up,” Ernie said.
Smith engraves his jewelry pieces with original aboriginal design.
The Smiths pride themselves on selling authentic First Nations art and they promote local artists through their gallery. And, being based in Campbell River, Ernie has an advantage.
“My mom’s from here (Wei Wai Kai), so everyone is my relative; I have lots of connections,” said Smith.
The gallery carries carvings from Bert Smith, as well as work from Nuu-chah-nulth artists Qwaya Sam and Vince Smith.
While speaking with Ha-Shilth-Sa, a young man entered the store. Ernie greeted the man, whom he introduced as Tommy Brown.
“I sold your drum. It went to Italy,” said Smith. The young man was clearly happy. He told Ha-Shilth-Sa he only found out about Awatin Aboriginal Art Gallery when he spotted it as he was driving by.
In the two months that the store has been open, Awatin Aboriginal Art Gallery has drawn in visitors from around the world. Some of their pieces have gone to Belgium, Australia, and places across Canada and the U.S.
The Smiths credit their success to network building. We spent a few dollars and became members of The Campbell River Chamber of Commerce, which now promotes the new business. In addition, the Smiths network with neighboring businesses in the Pier district of Campbell River.
“People down here are awesome. They send people over from their businesses,” Ernie said, adding that his uncle Earl always hammered the point. ‘Network, network, network.’
“So we network,” laughed Smith.
They also credit friends Mason Davies and John Livingstone who were in the business and offered advice.
The Smiths also spent time preparing to become business owners.
“We had the best help from NEDC and started with the Build My Business workshop series,” said Darlene.
They also credit the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Education department and Charlene Miller for support and guidance as they both went through training; Ernie taking the jewelry making course and Darlene in business planning and management.
Ron Arcos of NEDC was a huge help, providing business advice, according to the Smiths.
As the season slows down the couple plan to set up tables at various markets in the region, selling products, taking orders and promoting their business.
“We have to be creative and do whatever it takes to stay afloat,” said Darlene.
Pieces can be ordered or purchased through the website at www.awatinart.com. The gallery is located at #104-909 Island Highway.
