Cape Breton Island Culture & Craft

Art and craft often mirror the heritage, lifestyle, and geography of the region where artists live and work. Nowhere is this more evident than on Cape Breton Island with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and traditions that have fostered a dynamic creativity among its craftspeople.

Cape Breton has a unique mix of cultures descendant from the original native inhabitants – the Mi’kmaq – the French and English colonists and other immigrant populations, each with their own special customs and skills. They settled in communities strung out along the magnificent coastlines of the Atlantic and the Bras d’Or Lakes.

This backdrop of heritage and environment has been the wellspring of creative inspiration reflected in the Island’s crafts. Through the span of two centuries, old techniques and designs live on but Cape Breton artisans have also incorporated exciting new twists and fresh approaches springing from modern materials, colours, and sensibilities.

A wide and eclectic range of work is available - unique expressions of function, beauty, and culture.

We are sure that as you browse through our Gallery, you will appreciate how special Cape Breton and its artists are. And, like many others, you will have to have a piece of Cape Breton to call your own.

For contact information on the craft producers and artisans featured on this website click here.