The Artist
"There's no place in the world I'd rather be! I can feel the sparkle in the air just approaching the town. I've never been so involved in a community".

Born in Vancouver and raised in Castlegar, BC, Dan Sawatzky has experienced much of what British Columbia has to offer. His travels have accorded him a sense of locale which he has translated into art. His main objective is accurately depicting the humble qualities of everyday objects which are so much a part of our heritage.

Largely self-taught, Sawatzky's repertoire includes works in pen and ink and egg tempera. On a large scale, he has pained historical murals all across North America, both in Canada and the USA.

He and his growing family have made their home in Chemainus since he painted the mural Company Store. These days, Dan works from his studio in his Victoria-styled home and remains active in ongoing community endeavours.

The Art
Using an oval format, this mural shows an interior depiction of the Victoria Lumber & Manufacturing Company Store, circa 1917. From old photographs, the artist recreated the deep perspective of the colourfully-laden shelves.

D. A. Gatus was the manager; he is seen standing in the mid-ground. Miss Ann Porter worked as a clerk, and is pictured on the left behind the counter.

The V. L. & M. Company used one of the first known credit card systems in the store. The purchase would pay for the goods with coupons. In turn, the store would receive credit for the same from the company, which would deduct the amount from their employees' pay cheques.

The name "Victoria Lumber & Manufacturing Company", and its trade mark, the letter "V" in a diamond, became known throughout the world.