Dorothy Collin Award

Dorothy Collin

1937 – 2021

Dorothy Collin was a founding member of the Mississauga Potters’ Guild. She was proud of the thriving creative community that grew from the humble beginnings of the gathering of a few clay enthusiasts in founding members’ homes. Dorothy was a strong member of her community, an accomplished potter and connected with members, new and old, whenever she had the chance. She embraced new Guild activities, participating in sales, exhibitions, attending meetings in person and on Zoom and opening her home for members’ to use for Raku and individual projects. Dorothy was the Guild’s biggest cheerleader. She is remembered for applauding the hard work of volunteers as the backbone of the Guild. The Dorothy Collin Memorial Award was created in 2021 to honour her memory and contribution to the Guild.

Dorothy Remembered Fondly

‘When I moved to Fergus, Dorothy knocked on my door a few days after we moved in to welcome me. I did not know then that I would be her ‘new project’. She had decided to introduce me to the art community in the area. In the fall, she arranged for me to display my work in a window gallery in Elora; invited me to participate in the art sale she hosted at her B&B every year and made sure I applied to be a member of the Elora Studio Tour. She also called me regularly as she knew that in a small town, word of mouth is king. I will forever be grateful for all the doors she opened for me.’

In Elora-Fergus, everyone either knew or had heard of Dorothy, She belonged and volunteered with many organisations; the Fergus Curling Club, Elora Centre for the Arts, Elora Empty Bowls, the Horticulture Society and the Fergus home show to name a few.

Dorothy will be missed by me and many.   She was a mover and a shaker that has left an undeniable mark in her multiple communities.

Denise Rainville,

Former member of Mississasuga Potters’  Guild.