Yolande Fournier

Meet Yolande “Yo” Fournier -  Celebrated Potter and Gardener 

Yo's foray into pottery began in the 1970s through night classes at Alberni District High School. Her passion for the medium led her to further studies in Parksville and participation in workshops hosted by the Potters Guild, where she learned from renowned ceramic artists. Over the years, she has honed her craft in a custom-built backyard studio equipped with handmade tools, allowing her to create both functional and sculptural pieces. Her work often features motifs inspired by her love for cats and the majestic orcas of the West Coast, reflecting her deep connection to nature and wildlife.

Beyond her pottery, Yo is an avid gardener, known affectionately as the "Tomato Lady" for her thriving vegetable gardens and homemade preserves. Her gardening pursuits are not only a personal passion but also a source of inspiration for her art, as seen in her contributions to the Island Arts Magazine's "Garden Musing" column. 

A storyteller at heart, Yo infuses her creations with narratives drawn from her life experiences, love for music, and appreciation for fashion. Whether teaching pottery classes to students aged 16 and up or engaging with fellow artists, she continues to inspire and enrich the cultural tapestry of Port Alberni.