Christopher Tyler

Chris played a significant role in the development of Canadian culture as an artist-craftsman, writer, curator, potter, educator and administrator. He attended King Edward School, Birmingham, and Leeds University (B.A.) in the UK before immigrating to Canada in 1966, attending MacMaster University (M.A.), and NS College of Art and Design (M.F.A.). A tireless promoter of excellence in the development of craft, he was Executive Director of NSDCC at which time he established the Mary E Black Gallery. He was Head of the NS Centre for Craft and Design from 1991-2000, a unique facility in Canada at the time. He later became Manager of Anchor Programs at the NS Dept Tourism, Culture and Heritage. He was honoured as an Industry Leader with the Atlantic Canada Crafts Awards for Excellence in 2005.

He was co-author of a book on raku ceramics, probably the first book on contemporary ceramics by a Canadian, and wrote numerous articles and papers. He acted as an independent curator across North America and his own ceramic works have been included in exhibitions that have travelled nationally and internationally. Upon retiring in 2007 he re-opened his ceramic studio, St Joseph Pottery, in Halifax. He served as a member of the NSCAD Board of Governors, 1986-89, and as a Board member of the Atlantic Econo Musée and of the NS Designer Crafts Council.

A deeply intelligent, gentle, and loving friend, husband and father, Nova Scotia will always have his imprint in the community he has so well served. He loved his books, gardening, sailing and most especially, his family. He leaves behind a loving wife, Lynda, his children, Simon and Jessica, and his mother, Olga Joyce.

Special thanks to the dedicated doctors and nurses at the Victoria General ICU for their compassion and kindness. Our sincere gratitude to all our many friends and good neighbours who have shown us such warmth and generosity. Visitation on Wednesday December 8th 2:00-4:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm and a Memorial Service on Thursday December 9th at 2.00pm at J.A Snow Funeral Home on Lacewood Drive.