“Otter’s craft is lovingly and laboriously manifested in contemporary pieces that combine beauty and comfort and also hearken to traditional designs.”- S. MacAlpine-Foshay, Former Director of Mary E. Black Gallery

I began making furniture as a profession in 2004. I had no formal woodworking education and only a few tools. My workshop for the first 6 months was borrowed space in a friend’s single car garage.

In my first year, I received Juried Status Membership from the Nova Scotia Designer Crafts Council. Gradually, my name got out and commissions trickled in. I owe a great deal to my wife and family for their support. I am also indebted to my customers who took a chance on my unrefined abilities in those early days. 

THE REWARDS OF PATIENCE

We moved to a much larger workshop and gallery in Earltown, Nova Scotia in 2008. I was able to grow and expand my repertoire of making from that beautiful space in that beautiful part of the world. 

• 2012 Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia Masterworks Award Finalist
• Certificate of Excellence from the 2015 Arts and Craft Design Award
• 2016 Niche Award.
• 2016 Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia Masterworks Art Award Finalist.
• 2017 Arts and Crafts Design Award. 

My brother Joe joined me in the workshop in 2016. He brought a wealth of fitted furniture and production experience to our studio. In 2017 I moved to Ireland. Joe continues to work from our studio workshop in Earltown.

We now are collaborating with production partners to make our designs more accessible. Please see our Production Partners page for more information.