Founded as a non-profit in Knowlton in 1984 and relocated to Sutton 8 1/2 years later, Farfelu was conceived as a place for often isolated Quebec artisans to meet, exchange ideas and information and get feedback on their work from the other members in the co-op, and also as as a showcase for their work, a place for it to be displayed and sold while sharing the cost and workload of running a boutique.
In the early years Farfelu was also a place where individual artisans could actually work, giving the local and visiting public a chance to watch and learn more about how they create their products. Workshops are still often given at Farfelu, and there is a monthly exhibit/vernissage in the display room for new and established artists to exhibit and sell their work, give demonstrations and find a wider audience for their craft. It's a great place to visit if you ever find yourself in the area, open Thursday to Sunday all year long.
"When you buy from an artisan you're buying more than just an object. You are buying hundreds of hours of failures and experimentations. You are buying days, weeks and months of frustration and moments of pure joy. You aren't just buying a thing, you're buying a piece of heart, part of a soul, a moment of someone's life. Most importantly, you're buying the artist more time to do something they are passionate about."
63 Lakeside, Knowlton, 1984
Alan Lightfoot
Colleen Young
Susan Mason
Liz Davidson
First Members
Maya Lightbody