About Us
Bryan Reid, the artist behind the creation of Doreywood Decor, is a skilled carver and talented artist of different modalities. Bryan's fascination with art began in his late teens with his first of two trips to Europe. The exposure to the origins of western art in Greece, Italy and western Europe penetrated his soul and he began his journey as a painter. An easel and canvas were never far away as he and his wife Kathy raised their four daughters in British Columbia. His studies and observations as an artist were strongly influenced by the works of Emily Carr, the Canadian Group of Seven, French Impressionism and Vincent van Gogh. Several years teaching on reserve in northern and central B.C. introduced him to carving and, in particular, the magnificent designs of the Northwest coast First Nations.
Bryan's first foray into a gallery/studio experience was in 100 Mile House, B.C. when he opened his first store front (Deco Art - House of Designs) in the early 1990's. This shop showcased his own work, along with the arts and crafts of more than twenty fellow artisans. A move to Nova Scotia in 1998 started a new chapter.
Here in Nova Scotia, Doreywood Decor was born and worked its way through a home gallery/studio, two Chester (Nova Scotia) cooperative ventures and more than year as a vendor at the Keith's Brewery Market. Two years in the whole sale environment in Atlantic Canada were also experienced.
Today Bryan, and his daughter, Alison Howlett are delighted to be back at the Halifax Seaport Farmer's Market. There, they are show casing their unique line of carved and stained house decor product. A wide range of distinctively designed and crafted Maritime and First Nations inspired images are available as are custom designed products.
The artistic inspirations that have motivated Bryan on his journey through life continue to motivate him more than fourty years after the seed was planted. Like the many artists and artisans who have brought beauty to the world, Bryan is delighted to share his vision.

Alison Howlett is one of Bryan's daughters and has taken on the role of sales and marketing. The above picture, taken at the Halifax Seaport Farmer's Market, is of Alison (left) and twin sister Elizabeth.