Arts North

Arts North has sold work by Cape Breton makers from its post-and-beam gallery on the northern Cabot Trail since the late 1970s. The consignment collective carries juried work from more than 20 local artisans, all of it made on the island — which sets it apart from the souvenir shops that line the highway further south. Whales, moose, shorebirds, and coastal flora show up again and again in the work, and artist notes posted beside each piece tell you who made it and how.

The gallery operates as a consignment collective, with a thoughtful post-and-beam interior space that displays work across diverse mediums: pottery, jewelry, woodwork, fiber arts, quilts, weaving, prints, glass, photography, and basketry. Much of the work draws on Cape Breton's wildlife and coastline — whales, moose, shorebirds, and coastal flora appear as recurring motifs. The artist blurbs next to each piece give context to the makers and their techniques.

What to Expect

• Juried works from 20+ Cape Breton artisans — pottery, jewelry, woodwork, fiber arts, prints, and glass
• Exclusively locally made crafts, with no mass-produced imports
• Art inspired by the island's wildlife and coastline
• A sunlit post-and-beam gallery space on the Cabot Trail
• Worldwide shipping available for larger purchases

Practical Information

• Location: 28571 Cabot Trail, Cape North, NS B0C 1G0 (near Dingwall, on Cape Breton's northern tip)
• Hours: Seasonal — June 1 to October 25; June & September 9 AM-6 PM, July-August 9 AM-7 PM, October 9 AM-5 PM; closed winters
• Website: https://arts-north.com
• Contact: (902) 383-2911

Tips for Visitors

Admission is free, with no reservations required. The gallery accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Debit. Plan around 30-45 minutes to browse comfortably, and the staff know every piece on display — ask about specific artists or techniques. Arts North makes an ideal stop while driving the northern section of the Cabot Trail.