3660 Lake Road, Denman Island

Tom Dennis’ studio location is just that extra little bit farther off the beaten track where the peaceful solitude of island living is truly palpable. It has certainly proven to be the perfect work environment for Tom who, after so many years alternating between a tractor and the seat of his pottery wheel, now focuses solely on the meditative practise of producing functional and beautiful wares.
Tom is known for his sturdy mugs, vases so tall they would make excellent umbrella stands, squared plates, hearty bowls, and ample platters. Double dipping, pouring, and spraying overlapping glazes are several techniques he uses to achieve his versatile colour range, which includes shades such as moss green and ruby red to mauve and golden brown. This season, Tom is experimenting with blues and examples of his new colours can be seen here.
Tom’s work is available year-round at the Potter’s Place in Courtenay, Island Potters on Hornby Island, and at the Denman Craft Shop – though the scenic drive leading to his studio location is worth exploring. Merely traverse Lake Road, passing Winter Wren Wood, Chicadee Lake, and enter a mystical forest to find his studio. Vase-shaped signs are your guide at all junction points. Normal studio hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. but Tom will be open both Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19 from 10:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. for the Studio Tour.
“I consider myself a craftsman, not an artist.”









