March 12, 2024

Meet Blu Dog Art Gallery, the newest art gallery in Oakville! Opening last month, this woman–owned business offers unique and contemporary pieces, perfect for anyone, whether you’re just starting your art journey, or are a more established collector.

We had a chance to sit down with the owner, Debra Pearce, to learn about her journey, how she came to open her business in Oakville, and the advice she would have for other women aspiring to start their own businesses.

Below are excerpts from Debra’s interview.

1. Can you tell us about the journey that led you to start your own business?

I knew in early 2023 that I had to make some changes. I needed to add creativity to my life and find something that was fulfilling. And so the journey began!

I started drawing and playing with watercolours in the spring of 2023. WOW, I couldn’t believe how happy it made me. It didn’t matter that I wasn’t very good… I was creative – drawing, painting, knitting, crochet, macrame, duck carving. My passion for art was always there though and I collected unique pieces when I travelled.

With the help of online classes and You Tube videos, I kept at it. I started attending art shows and couldn’t believe how many talented people there are out there. I wanted to be part of this crazy eccentric artists community.

2. How did you decide on the location?

I felt that the Oakville/Burlington/Halton area needed a vibrant, contemporary, inspired art gallery with original works that were affordable for everyone. I wanted to offer original pieces to the person just starting their art collection to bigger more expensive pieces for the established collector. And that’s what I set out to do.

So I decided to open an art gallery – what now? I had commitments from artists to join me in the journey so I just had to find the right location. Sounds easy – not so. I started looking at places to lease. They were all too big or too small, not the right location, 5 year lease, so expensive. I was getting frustrated. I kept asking myself – how can it be so difficult to find the right spot? Then I decided to buy and the journey began.

Luckily, I have a successful career that allowed me to have the downpayment for the purchase of my unit and the ability to fund it until the gallery gets established. I’ve dealt with the same bank since I started my own brand management company so they were good to work with to get the financing required for the purchase.

3. What advice would you give to other women aspiring to start their own businesses?

To other aspiring women who want to open a business – JUST DO IT!  There is no time like the present.  You don’t know unless you try and there is no time to try like the present. 

4. What or where is your favourite place in Oakville? And what makes Oakville such a great destination?

My favourite spot in Oakville – obviously Blu Dog Art Gallery. 😉

5. What’s next for your business?

Next up – advertising and getting the word out to let people know the gallery is open and to come and check it out.

Planning to visit Blu Dog Art Gallery? See their information below:

Address: 3485 Rebecca Street, Unit 106

Website: https://www.bludoggallery.com/

Opening Hours:

Monday: Closed

Tuesday – Friday: 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday:12:00 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 4 p.m.

For additional availability, more information and for scheduling appointments, please call: (226)-268-0204.

Enjoying reading this blog post? Sign up here to receive our monthly newsletter and get our blog post delivered to your inbox.