Northwest Art Alliance is a multi-reach organization that leverages its network of connections to foster the power of art within communities throughout the region. NWAA is reaching out to find “small towns” (about 10,000 popular or less) where ART is at the heart of the community, and to bring visibility to the art and artists.

Please let us know if there is a community or an organization that could be offered this special opportunity.

Peek into Manzanita, OR

Nestled along the breathtaking coastline of Oregon, Manzanita is a charming town that beckons visitors with its unique blend of coastal beauty and a laid-back, artistic atmosphere. With its pristine sandy beaches, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and towering forests on the other, Manzanita provides a serene escape for those seeking tranquility amid nature’s wonders. The town’s main thoroughfare, Laneda Avenue, features an array of eclectic shops, galleries, and local eateries, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for residents and visitors alike.

Manzanita’s community is tightly knit, embodying the quintessential spirit of a small coastal town. Residents often engage in various outdoor activities, from hiking the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain trails to enjoying the surf along the scenic coastline. This towering mountain that runs right down into the ocean is part of the protected 2500 acres of Oswald West State Park, and it provides a spectacular view as one looks toward the north along the coastline.

Manzanita has become a haven for artists and writers seeking inspiration from its stunning natural surroundings. The town’s charm lies not only in its scenic beauty but also in its vibrant artistic community that has flourished over the years. Writers are often drawn to the community where they find solace and inspiration in the rhythmic crash of waves along the shoreline and the whispering winds through the tall evergreens.

In the spirit of its commitment to the arts, Manzanita has become a thriving community and serves as a focal point for creative expression. The synthesis of natural beauty and artistic inspiration in Manzanita paints a compelling portrait of a town where the arts are not just appreciated but embraced as an integral part of its identity.

Introduction and photographs by NWAA board member and part-time Manzanita resident, Gregg Goolsby. See more of Gregg’s artwork HERE.

Deborah DeWit

“For over forty years I’ve been a working artist and have developed a very personal vision, through the practice of several mediums: photography, pastel, oil and the written word. Representational in style my work depicts many different subjects from figures to interiors, landscapes to still life, but my focus in these is on the metaphorical and symbolic ideas that are present in daily life, in nature and also in the relationship between the two. The place between inner and outer experiences often forms a starting point for me and painting offers a way to explore this ever-shifting reality. 

My work is shown in galleries and group exhibitions, has been used on book covers, calendars and cards and can be found in numerous private and public collections.  I’ve written two books: Traveling Light: Chasing an Illuminated Life and Painting Cats, both include my artwork, and my paintings and pastels about books and reading are collected in the volume In the Presence of Books with an introduction by Kim Stafford. I live and work in the Manzanita area with my filmmaker husband Carl Vandervoort and our cat Birdie. 

I’m currently working on new oil paintings for a show in March/April 2024 at White Bird Gallery in Cannon Beach, OR where I’m regularly represented. You can see more of my past and present work HERE”

KOPALI SERNA

“I’m an Otomí artist, native to Boyle Heights, Los Angeles now living in Nehalem, OR. I first studied ceramics in high school and most recently at the Escuela Nacional de Cerámica in Jalisco, Mexico, but am mostly a self-taught artist.  I work with clay as a way of connecting to my ancestral memories and to the elements of life – earth, water, fire, and air. My process involves making vessels through both wheel-throwing and hand-building and often adding sculptural elements. Finished surfaces seek to reflect the inherent beauty of clay.  

 My sculptural work is an exploration of the reciprocal relationship between land and people. Invoking a time when people did not just seek to spend time in nature but lived with the deeper realization that people and nature are one. The river, the person, and the vessel each an interconnected body.  My studio is based in Nehalem, on the North Oregon Coast within the immense beauty of the Pacific Northwest rainforests. You may find my pottery for sale at Nehalem Bay Pottery, where my studio is based, or on my Etsy shop. Also see me on my website or Instagram - @kantaropottery“

Ron van Dongen

“Before I ever touched a camera, my interest in nature, and specifically gardening, started at a very young age. Years later, while attending art school, photographing flowers began as a mere exercise. It allowed me to learn the ins and outs of working with a large format camera, while my subject matter waited patiently in the studio. Little did I know that I would be photographing plants for a living for the next 25 years. It turned out to be a perfect marriage.

Now I was able to grow and then document my own subject matter. I’d never photographed outside the studio until I moved full time to Manzanita, with its beautiful shoreline and exquisite surrounding forests. I decided to take my camera and photograph the ever changing colors and light of Neahkahnie beach. And, during the many forest hikes, I have been learning about the magnificent world of fungi. Many of them amazingly photogenic and some of them so very delicious to eat.” Visit Ron’s website HERE

M.J. Anderson

“I work in collaboration with stone, with marble, with the elements of the planet. Marble is a material that once was alive.  Ancient coral reefs and bones from sea creatures were layered in flowing forms of water currents, accumulated over millennia on the bottom of changing seas.  With planetary shifts and the weight of time, these deposits were highly compressed under extreme heat and thrust into mountains. The quarrying process cuts open these mountains to expose the history of our planet.  It is a terrible beauty.  This is Carrara, Italy – where I have worked for 36 years, bringing sculptures to fruition in my studios both in Carrara and on the Oregon Coast in Nehalem.   

I carve in response to the unique qualities of each stone I touch.  It is an intimate and reverent dialogue of lasting consequence. And being a woman sculptor, I attempt to convey the essence of what it feels like to be human, to be woman. Whether working abstractly or in the figurative vein, I approach the form as if it has always existed.  The process of direct carving keeps me active in the present tense as I respond to the form with each hammer blow.  I am increasingly delighted by the endless possibilities that the human form and spirit provide as vehicle for expression. Often presenting a full-on facing forward figure without the contortions of vanity, I want to express the essence of our human-ness rather than the image of a person.  Although stone carving is the most ancient and durable of art forms, working within the moments of my own time and evolution imparts a contemporary insight into that which is both ancient and immediate in all of us.   

(Art lingo aside, I make a fair bit of noise and dust with both old style hammer and chisel as well as grinders, air hammers, and lots of sandpaper!)  Visit my website HERE”

Sherrie Wolf 

“Early in my college art education, I was lightning-struck by a retrospective in San Francisco of Georgia O’Keeffe paintings. Her huge, boldly beautiful still-life images inspired my belief in a life as a successful woman painter. Around then, historians began revealing many women artists that had been overlooked throughout history. Successful careers of artists such as Rosa Bonheur, Artemisia Gentileschi, and Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun provided needed role models for me. 
 
I paint in oil on canvas, and emphasize still-life objects interacting with references to historic art. Lately (since 2012 and through the decade) I have made large scale self-portraits to see myself as a “woman in histosty.

Women persist to defy the boundaries set by family obligations and bias in exclusionary environments where male artists have historically achieved more success and exposure. Artistic expressions viewed as “feminine” or un-masculine sometime elicit disrespect. Beyond gender identity, I look to all my artistic predecessors for the fluidity of creativity which knows no sex or gender; and I have been finding other prejudicial boundaries such as race and class to probe, perhaps somewhat subliminally while distracting the viewer with emphasis on unapologetic lushness.” See more about Sherrie HERE

Mary Roberts

“My aim is to create elegant, modern, and functional ceramics: round, oval, angular, often brought to conclusion by exaggeration: a diminutive or elongated neck, each piece energetically lifting off the base; assertive, patterned, and fresh. All pieces are wheel-thrown stoneware and often finished with matte glazes and wax-resist patterns.

I create patterns on the surface – inspired by a field of wildflowers, ridged driftwood, veined rock or perhaps heavily tweeded wool or the printed pattern in a kimono. Each pattern has reassuring repetition that feels orderly while also embracing organic variation. I sometimes carve patterns following the same tension between order and organic, striving to show my hand while avoiding the sense of mechanic perfection.” See Mary’s ceramics at Riversea Gallery in Astoria Oregon.

Kathleen Kanas

“Just as basket weaving took hold of me so many years ago, to this day I still find great pleasure with the process and rhythm of creating contemporary and organic vessels from natural fibers. The process is a dynamic, tactile transformation of forms. Much of what I know about weaving developed from experimenting with plants and grasses combined with rattan reed. My early baskets were more utilitarian, but as I discovered the unique qualities of different fibers my baskets took on an organic aesthetic. 

Eventually, the years of weaving led me to explore both stained-glass processes and hand-built pottery methods.  Currently I’m integrating woven fibers onto fired clay forms that has reignited my explorative nature and creative spirit. These pieces especially, representing two earliest technologies, hold the most significance to me.”   See more of Kathleen’s artwork HERE

The Hoffman Center for the Arts

The Hoffman Center for the Arts in Manzanita, Oregon, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled in the heart of this coastal community. Boasting a rich history and commitment to fostering creativity, the center serves as a focal point for artists and art enthusiasts alike. With its diverse array of programs and events, the Hoffman Center plays a crucial role in promoting the arts and cultural expression within the region. 

 The center hosts a variety of activities, including art exhibitions, workshops, performances, and lectures. Many are drawn to the center for its outstanding clay program. In addition to visual arts programs the center offers a writing program with contests and publishes the highly acclaimed Squid magazine. It provides resources and support for local artists, contributing to the dynamic cultural tapestry of Manzanita. There is even a horticultural program with a garden on the property of the center that is under care of volunteers. 

Whether you're a seasoned artist looking for inspiration or a community member seeking to engage with the arts, the Hoffman Center offers a welcoming space that celebrates creativity in all its various forms. 

Learn more about the Hoffman Center for the Arts HERE

Polaris Gallery 

This highly successful gallery is owned by J. Scott Wilson who is a full-time painter. Scott has shown his art in more than three dozen successful exhibitions since 1998. He established Polaris Gallery in 2011 in the heart of Manzanita and currently displays exclusively his own paintings. 

Scott’s works are in high demand as they offer a unique and evocative visual experience with a “Zen-like” quality. His fluid brushstrokes using oil convey a sense of movement and fluidity in the scene. His seascapes and skyscapes evoke the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the ocean, capturing the essence of waves crashing and the constant motion of water, clouds and light.  

This approach invites the observer to engage with the artwork on a more visceral and emotional level and encourages them to immerse themselves in the mood and energy of the ever-shifting beauty of the mighty Pacific Ocean. See more abuot the Polaris Gallery and Scott’s artwork HERE.

North County Recreation District (NCRD)

In the adjoining town of Nehalem OR is the NCRD. This major facility and non-profit organization offer numerous art-related programs with a special focus on the performing arts. It features a beautiful theatre which puts on first rate stage performances featuring the Riverbend Players as well as other theatrical groups. The NCRD Performing Arts Center has become an important community asset to the North Oregon Coast. Performances that were not possible in a small community are now staged throughout the year in a building dating back to the 1930s. It has become the main gathering place of the North Tillamook County community and hosts a wide variety of events from community theater to variety shows and from solo performers to symphony orchestras.

Visual arts programs are focused on children with “Arts and Crafts Wednesday” becoming a very popular program offering. “The NCRD staff enjoy being creative with our kids, and work alongside them to inspire and encourage them. We provide a variety of mediums to work with, and an array of tools to express themselves. We like to relate our art to the season or holidays we are near. If it’s the beginning of a new school trimester we may be making collage vision boards, or we may be painting flowers in the spring.”

The facility includes a spacious art gallery where local artists can showcase and sell their work. The gallery space is available for rent at a very attractive price, allowing artists to exhibit their work for a month. The NCRD will handle the art sales, charging only a small commission to handle the transaction.

In September 2023, NWAA board member Gregg Goolsby (a part-time resident of Manzanita) showcased an exhibition of 60 pieces of his photography and art. 100% of the sales proceeds were donated in support of the amazing Mudd-Nick Foundation—a local non-profit offering various programs to positively impact children’s lives. Goolsby has a passion for using his art to raise funds for great causes and praised the NCRD for providing accessible gallery space for local artists. He believes NCRD sets a commendable example for other communities seeking ways to connect citizens with the arts and those who create by making displays more accessible to them. See all NCRD the programs HERE.

Pomeroy added April 1023

This is Pomeroy, WA

Pomeroy is a small farming community of about 1,340 in the farthest SE corner of Washington. Close to the Blue Mountains of the Umatilla forest and part of the Snake River, Pomeroy is just 30 miles from Lewiston Idaho, so it is about as “Eastern Washington” as one could get. This rural town is nestled in a tree lined valley between vast fields of wheat on the high rolling hills of a region of Washington State known as the Palouse.

In the past, the population of Pomeroy has mostly been composed of retired farmers, city officials and small business owners, but in the last 30 years new people have been moving to Pomeroy, seeking the peace and slower pace of rural life. This new demographic, plus the needs of long time craftspeople and artists in the community is now being served by the establishment of the Blue Mountain Artisan Guild. (BMAG), see more about BMAG in the article below.

The artists below represent the Pomeroy community. There are public art installations of murals in the small pocket park on Main Street, and the Flour Mill just up the highway also sponsors art exhibits in their cafe, as well as tours in their old-time flour mill. One of the art students from the high school painted a mural on the local swimming pool.

BMAG is the artistic hub and has provided a true impetus to the revitalization of Pomeroy, as well as the opportunity for its citizens to create and exhibit their work. To be sure, there will be more.

Introduction written by artist and past resident, Jennifer Carrasco

Mary M. Flerchinger

Mary M. Flerchinger is one of the founders of the Blue Mountain Artisan Gulld

“I live on a ranch in the foothills of the Blue Mountains 20 miles south of Pomeroy, WA. in the area called Peola. I was born in Lewiston, Id. in 1949 but lived most of my childhood in Wisconsin. I am married to my husband Steve for 50 years and we have 4 adult children and 7 grandchildren. We wheat farm and cattle ranch. 

 I have loved painting and drawing all my life but have recently become serious about my art. The beauty of Peola and the ranch inspires me and shows in my work. I prefer vivid colors and bold strokes. I would like my art to tell a story or portray a feeling. 

My favorite subjects are horses, wildlife, and scenes. I recently tried portraits and decided I liked them. I have painted many subjects ranging from flowers to old rusty cars to lakes and fish. I enjoy experimenting with colors and ideas. I paint mainly in oils and acrylics. I am mostly self-taught but I have taken classes here and there over the years. I paint mainly from photos and sometime plein air. Expressing myself through my art is a good feeling. I also like to make people happy with a good painting of something they love. I am happy to do commissions.”  See more of Mary’s artwork HERE

Helen Ortins Boland

“As a retired science teacher, homestead farmer and lifelong naturalist much of my art reflects my love of animals, nature and landscape. Other pieces mysteriously emerge from my imagination. I move between detail, realism and impression. I mostly work in watercolor, but I also use ink, acrylic and pastel. My main focus in my art is to authentically document and express my relationship to the world around me. 

My daily art practice documents fun, fluidity and attention to form, color, light and shadow.  In addition to creating art in my kitchen or studio, I carry my sketchbook along with pencils pens, brushes and portable paints with me practically everywhere I go. Enjoying local music and meals or waiting for appointments present more opportunities to sketch, capture characters and scenes and practice technique.  Perhaps my favorite work is created on site in nature. En plein air painting in natural settings finds me in the mountains, on farms, in gardens and even in town.   

  My education is in Biology and Science teaching. Along the way I have taken several college art classes, but mostly I am self-taught starting as a small child. Currently, I am a member and have shown my art through the following organizations: Blue Mountain Artisan Guild in Pomeroy, WA, Blue Mountain Artists Guild, Dayton, WA, ArtWalla in Walla Walla, WA. Allied Arts in Richland, WA, The Dalles Art Center in The Dalles, Oregon, Pendleton Center for the Arts, Pendleton, Oregon.  PAWA - Plein Air, Washington. My art has also been featured in several gallery shows and businesses throughout the region.”

Helen Ortins Boland - artist at Willow Meadow Arts. See more of Helen’s artwork HERE

Jaril Pietras 

“I was born in Michigan State, raised in Western Washington and relocated to Pomeroy, Washington in 2015, where we owned a farm until this year. By trade I worked in the nursing industry until 2014. I’ve always loved photography and nature, so after relocating and no longer working, combining the two has made my heart happy!

I have four grown children and am blessed to be a grandma to three beautiful grandchildren. My husband and I now live in Port Angeles, Washington which is in the upper northwestern corner of the state within the Olympic Mountain region. I love taking both scenic and wildlife photographs. It’s always enjoyable to find the beauty within our world!” See More of Jaril’s photography HERE

JD Brown

Gabriella Ball

Gabriella Ball lives in a cabin in the Palouse region of Washington/Idaho, along with her husband and border collie. She worked at two local universities before retiring in 2011 and now volunteers at a charitable thrift shop. 

She began painting when she retired, and enjoys painting with watercolors, acrylics and oils. She is active in regional art groups and has exhibited her work in juried, invitational and solo shows over the last decade.

Images of some of Gabriella’s paintings are posted at palousewatercolorsocius.com and pomeroybmag.com

John Lawson

Wendi Watson

Wendi loves knitting, quilting, beekeeping, baking, canning, and vegetable gardening – all of which she considers artwork.  She had not painted before September 1st, 2021 when she started her watercolor journey.  “My daughter and I planned to paint together as part of her homeschool art curriculum, we purchased a book and a few cheap supplies and promptly began painting.  When we did the first exercise and my painting really did look like a monarch caterpillar, I was hooked.”   

In addition to homeschooling her daughter, Wendi and her husband own and operate a structural engineering firm.  Their company, RPW Structural Engineering specializes in Post-Tensioned Concrete Podium Buildings.  Wendi is responsible for all the duties except engineering.  “Our engineering business requires a high level of detail and technical work, and I am happy to have painting as a creative outlet.”    

One of Wendi’s favorite activities includes collecting and restoring Edsels--once considered the biggest flop in automotive history, the Edsel automobile is now highly collectible.  “I joke that I first started dating the Engineer because I loved his cars and his dog.”  In fact, cars and dogs have been a great love that the Watsons have shared for nearly 27 years.  “I’m always up for a new border collie puppy, a swap meet, or drive in one of our vintage cars.  I have an original survivor 1958 Edsel 4-Door Sedan I call Rizzo.  She’s a little rough, but that makes me love her more.”   

“The Engineer and I were both born and raised in Pomeroy, but we spent 25 years near Portland, Oregon where we created a 1-acre hobby farm growing lavender, sunflowers, and pumpkins for market.”  Now that they are back home in Pomeroy, Wendi, and her family plan to build another hobby farm north of town.  “This time I think I will try my hand at growing Christmas trees and merino fiber sheep.  There are so many fantastic hobbies and interesting things to explore in this life.  We are created to be creative, and that’s really what it’s all about; finding joy in the journey and the God who created it all!”    

Roberta Zimmerman

“As a child I spent all my summers on an Arizona ranch, baking mudpies under the scorching Arizona sun.  Although my hands shaped the earth, it is the primal force of fire that completes my work.  Earth, Air, Fire, and Water the four sacred elements that are the breath of life. 

Each piece is thrown on the pottery wheel as no two pieces are identical.  Each piece is an original, never to be repeated.  As a professional potter, I am deeply influenced bybmy childhood in Arizona and Old Mexico, greatly admiring Native American skills.  I use potter’s wheel and work in white stoneware clay and unleaded glazes. 

I feel I have come full circle, working again in the “mud”, and hand painting designs freehand. I consider it a blessing to have my studio to work in everyday, creating works that reflect my love the west and the ancient peoples who came before us.”

Nancy Stinchcomb

“On my 16th birthday, my Aunt Bev, who was an Artist, gave me my first set of oil paints and brushes which I used o paint a picture inspired by one of my birthday cards.  

When I moved to Oregon rom So. California, I met Barbara Thelen of Woodburn, Oregon.  Who gave Art lessons in her home, this led me to a group of women who gathered every Wednesday to paint and we became friends for over 30 years.  I learned much of what I know today, including colors, mixing colors, types of brushes and brush car, from these Wednesday afternoons.  Many of those women have passed away now, but I still get together with a couple of them and paint, when I visit Oregon.  I love to travel near and far and be inspired by scenery, nostalgia, nature, and people. 

My favorite things to paint are places that I have been to and then le the viewer see the story behind the picture.  I moved to Pomeroy in 2014 from Lewiston Idaho and was fortunate to discover the BMAG.  The members have made me feel so welcome and is has renewed my love of painting and trying new things like Plain Air and Acrylics.  It has greatly enriched my life. “

Eric Argyle 

“I was born in Pomeroy, Washington in 1958, left Pomeroy after high school; worked in restaurants in Salt Lake City, Utah for ten years. Then I moved to Boise, Idaho and spent ten years there working as an air traffic controller. From there, I moved to McMinnville, Oregon, working at the McMinnville airport for the rest of his career. I moved back to Pomeroy in 2018 to enjoy the golden years with wife, Brenda, who is also from Pomeroy.”

Laurel King

“My interest in art began 2017 when Blue Mountain Artisan's Guild (BMAG) organized a night class for members in the community.  Having never painted in my life, nor even held a paint brush, I nervously signed up for the class.  We painted a scene on a pumpkin.  The class was so enjoyable, I signed up for the following month night class.  This time we painted chickadees on a branch in acrylic.  The class was taught by Mary Flerchinger, one of the founders of BMAG.  I was hooked after the second class and asked Mary if she gave individual lessons.  She did and I signed up. 

I have enjoyed painting for my own pleasure ever since. I will never be Grandma Moses, but am certainly having fun with my new hobby. “

Linda McKerinan

“My painting experience began with latex and a roller. The canvas has now reduced from a wall to a size that fits on an easel! As far back as my great grandparents, painting has been an enjoyable pastime for many of my family members. I am blessed with this opportunity.”

Jennifer Carrasco     

Jennifer Carrasco is a previous resident of Pomeroy. She graduated with a BA in Art and Education from Washington State University and was a graduate student at the University of Washington, as well as attending two years of graphic technology, design, and illustration at Seattle Central Community College. In the '60s, she worked as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines and remained in the country for 16 years, painting and teaching art. From 1986 to 1996, Jennifer was an NEA artist in residence in five different states and traveled in Japan and Korea as an artist in residence in US overseas schools. Since the early '90s, she has managed her own mural business in Seattle.

Jennifer has combined personal interpretation, painstaking historical research and period details, into an innovative series of murals in private residences and commercial establishments from Hawaii to Dubai. Each of her projects has been an adventure, a collaboration where she works with clients to create unique and beautiful visual environments.

See more of Jennifer’s work HERE

Where to see Art in Pomeroy

Blue Mountain Artisans Guild

No newcomers to the Pomeroy area, Carol Wildman, Mary Flerchinger and other volunteer board members set up an official BMAG art center on April 30, 2010. The Guild’s central philosophy was to focus on all the arts and fine crafts, from quilting, to pottery and knitting, to painting, sculpture and photography.  From the very beginning, the Guild has offered free art classes in the summer for children and has sponsored art and crafts exhibits in the high school during ball games and in various cafes, and restaurants, and at the Spinner’s Hall.

Through the generosity of Gary Houser and the Shepherd Foundation, BMAG was able to purchase their first art center building in 2012, and with the many donations from members and Pomeroy business, they were able to remodel and offer shows and classes for adults and children. Again in 2021, with the help of the Shepherd Foundation and BMCF of Walla Walla, Wa, the Guild was able to purchase an adjoining building and remodel it for art exhibits and classes, as well as install a kitchen and furniture for art receptions and community events.

BMAG exhibits fabric art, stained glass, woodwork, photography, all media paintings, leather, metal, jewelry, pottery and ceramics. Classes are offered in painting, crafts and pottery with a professional kiln for firing the clay ceramics and sculpture. All displays are organized by volunteers working with the Guild.

Visit their website HERE for complete with up-to-date offerings and photos of BMAG schedules and events, as well as a BMAG Facebook page HERE. BMAGART is also maintained by Guild volunteers.

The Flour Mill and Garfield County Museum

Public Art

added Fall 2022

Welcome to the community of Union, WA

The quaint town of Union sits at the southern bend of the Hood Canal located on the western side of the Puget Sound. Union faces west with its southern Olympic Mountain views and calm waters; offering consistently colorful shows of dramatic mountain sunsets. This alone is a sure draw for artists and photographers as well as the many seasonal vacationers who come to visit and find the means to return. The charm of Union doesn’t end there. In spite of it being a small town, Union has a roster of historic sites: The Dalby Waterwheel, McReavy House, Union Marina, Alderbrook Resort, as well as Robin Hood Village Resort, Hunters Farm, and Harmony Hill. The list is just some of the landmarks steeped in stories of history within the town. Union is also home to two boutiques worthy of a visit: Cameo, and The Weed Patch, and is home to the popular coffee shop, Union Square Deli, serving up a great menu and local ice cream, and is often filled with town regulars.

Union has been a long time home to visual artists, authors and musicians, and those wanting to live a quieter life within the woods and along the picturesque shore. Artists began flocking together to Union around one-hundred years ago, in the 1920’s with the formation of the Artist Colony. To learn more about this eccentric period of local history, find out more by picking up a copy of Michael Fredson’s The Artist Colony on Hood Canal: Pixley, Orre Nobles & Waldo Chase (2011).

Every August, Union is host to Hoodstock, an outdoor arts and music concert taking place on the water. The large part of the audience is boaters and kayakers enjoying a roster of regional musicians. Meanwhile on land, at the Union Marina this festival hosts a second location, easily accessible by dock, showcasing artists and artisans selling and connecting with the vacationers and the community. This annual arts and music festival is expanding and evolving each year. It’s here that several of the local artists come out of the woodwork to display their beautiful creations and share with the public. It’s nestled next to Union City Market where many local creators are also on exhibition year-round.

Introduction written by Janelle Kroner, artist and resident of Union, WA

Anne St Jean

James Kroner

James Kroner (b. 1978) received his MFA in Fine Art at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco (2013). The focus of his thesis was ‘The Energy in Nature’ with the marine climate always having an effect on the appearance of the city, he studied the fog and its movement as it played with the light cast by the time of day and depicted his renderings in often large scale works.

In the years since graduating, James has continued on this path within the theme of studying the local atmosphere and the interplay it creates on the scene he’s inspired by. Having moved north to the PNW he has been able to keep this focus as a motivation for his work. Kroner often travels to teach annual workshops around Europe, the U.S. and online. Go to James’s website HERE

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jameskroner/ @jameskroner  

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JamesKroner1  

Tove Koch

“To wander around in nature and marvel at its outstanding beauty and genius design was one of my favorite things to do as a young girl, and it still is to this day. I feel a strong connection to nature that is based on love, respect, and fascination. This connection is what makes up the core of my art. I’m also drawn to fairytales and mysticism, which shows especially in my paintings. When I create, I strive to evoke positive emotions in the observer, hopefully similar to my own emotions.”

Tove was born and raised in rural Sweden in a large family and moved to the U.S and Pacific Northwest in 2014. She has loved expressing herself through art since she was a little girl, so naturally her lower and higher education has always focused around art. After attending a High School that had a big focus on the arts, she pursued one year at a fine art school where oil painting was the focus, followed by one year of photography school. Since then, photography has been the predominant art form, but she also enjoys painting. Her photography and art is featured at Hood Canal Resort and Union City Market in Union, WA. To view more of her work right now, visit her website HERE

Janelle Kroner 

Janelle Kroner (b.1980 Janelle Randall) resides in the PNW town of Union along the southern part of the Hood Canal. Painting from life in oils through travels both international and close to home, Janelle enjoys the adventure of finding dynamic scenes and striking contrasts in nature and will stop along the side of the road to document the moment using a brush. Often returning to the same scene in various seasons, Janelle works to grow her ability and observations to compare with past paintings.

In 2005, she received her BFA in Fine Art Painting at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. She went on to work for various galleries, also at the SFMOMA and full time for a decade as a bespoke decorative painter in S.F. Always keeping in line with her sole passion for fine art painting and arts administration. She has since moved to Union, appreciating the comradery of its inspiring community of artists. Janelle currently works full time as a painter and dedicates time to her goal of supporting and encouraging others by serving as the President of Plein Air Washington Artists. See more of Janelle’s artwork HERE

Alexandra Ehrich

“I was born and raised on the Olympic Peninsula, and you’ll most likely find me hiking, hunting, fishing, toiling away in my garden, or mushroom hunting - usually with my pup by my side or in the backseat of my pickup. I spend my time in the outdoors to find inspiration and to remember my part in the natural world.  

I’ve just begun my journey into the fine arts and started selling my work in the spring of 2021. My primary mediums are both painting and printmaking. I create work inspired by things wild and free, my time spent on the back roads and backcountry, and a lifestyle that can only be created by the Pacific Northwest. Using photographs captured on my outdoor pursuits as references, I paint landscapes primarily in acrylics and watercolors, but have recently started exploring a transition into oils this fall. As a printmaker I carve designs in both wood and linoleum to create hand-pressed block prints.”

You can see more of Alexandra’s artworks at Potlatch Brewery in Hoodsport, WA, and at Crazy Hill Nursery in Belfair, WA. She can accept several commission requests throughout the year, see more at her website HERE. Instagram @alexan.ehrich.

Harro

“My preferred medium is reactive metal paintings, using patination and rust. Alchemy is a word often used by others to describe my bronze, copper and iron application process. Originally intended for architectural coatings, this medium does excellent outdoors. Growing up on the waters of Puget Sound, the marine sea life inspires my artwork & activism to this day. Salmon and salmon recovery remain at the heart of my body of work.”
 -Harro Scharbau IV 

PUBLIC ART

BriAnne Waite

PWN born - PWN inspired - BriAnne utilizes all mediums from watercolor to concrete to fabric. In 2017, BriAnne broke out of the usual paint on canvas style to begin painting mural. It ia a love for making art accessible for everyone and she quickly became obsessed with tagging buildings and rooms. In 2020, BriAnne felt there was a void in art inspired apparel. She filled that void in the Hood Canel area by creating a new fabric design each year inspired by the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Even though BriAnne has added all these exciting mediums to her repertoire, she stays in touch with her roots by creating epic acrylics and watercolor paintings.

Instagram@PNWArt

Facebook@PNWBriAnne

Loren Feldman

Art has always been a big part of my life, as a way to express my ideas or to help others express their’s. After getting my BFA in visual communications from Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, I began thinking about how design and traditional art relate. After moving to Union, WA a few years after graduating, I started merging my traditional art background with my design skills to create branding and merchandise for businesses in the PNW.  

Environmental impact is something I keep in mind when creating, whether it be subject matter or the materials I use. I try to minimize waste when making my work, sometimes recycling old pieces into something new, or looking for sustainable sources when creating designs for apparel. I enjoy working with various mediums, such as watercolor, gouache, screen printing, charcoal/pencil, ink, and digital. I also occasionally explore different styles with my work to continue evolving as an artist. I’m inspired by surrealism, mid-century modernism, nature, and impressionism.

Instagram @ghostforgood

Union City Market

Union City Market is a year-round community gathering space offering local snacks, art, gifts, and specialty grocery items. It is located on Hood Canal within a working marina. Local artists are on display through mediums of photography, ceramic pieces, watercolor paintings, and more. Learn more HERE

Featured artists include, Mark Dalton-Giclee, Tove Koch- Photography, Brianne Lesman- Acrylic, Michael Friel- Oil, Nancy Romanosky- Oil, Jan Morris- Watercolo, Michelle VanBerkom- Watercolor, Harro Art-Oxidation, Susan Nocella- Glass, Janelle Kroner- Oil, William Swanson- Ceramics, J.T. Wolff Bowden- Mixed Media & George Stenberg- Photography

Welcome to Gig Harbor, WA

Added Summer 2022

Since first settled in 1867, Gig Harbor is a postcard-perfect hamlet community and is closely connected to the water. Croatian settlers started the long-standing fishing industry, which continues today. Today, the downtown surrounds it’s lovely harbor where all kinds of boats can be found, fishing boats, yachts, sailboats, tugboats, houseboats, kayaks, standup paddleboards, gondolas and tour boats. Our waterfront downtown is the heart of Gig Harbor and it invites visitors to stop and take a stroll. Visit the many art galleries, explore the of boutique shops, take in a wonderful meal at a waterfront restaurant or enjoy the view of Mt. Rainier. Public art is tucked away all along the waterfront. The public boat dock is located in Skansie Park, near the historic Skansie Net Shed. Not far away is the Harbor History Museum, a regional maritime and history museum with occasional art exhibitions. In additional to the downtown Farmers Market, there are many festivals to choose from: the Maritime Gig Festival, the Gig Harbor Art Festival, Wheels on Water Car Show, the Gig Harbor Garden Tour, the Beer Festival, the Paddlers Cup and the Summer Concerts at Skansie Park.

Gig Harbor has a thriving community of artists who work together to support the local art community. There are two cooperative art galleries in town which are artist owned and operated.  The yearly Open Studios tour is a great way to see local artists in action. Peninsula Art League has monthly meetings for artists, and they organize the annual Gig Harbor Art Festival which will take place July 16 and 17. Fine artists and crafters will display their work in 120 booths and festivities include food, music, a literary corner for authors and illustrators and a kid’s corner. We look forward to sharing our wonderful local art with all of our visitors. You can find an interactive Google map of the Art Tour locations where you can get directions to and hours for Gig Harbor galleries by clicking HERE.

Written by Gig Harbor artist, Beth Owens. NWAA would like to thank Beth for contacting the artists and working with us to make this exhibit possible.

Kate Larsson

I am a late “bloomer.” I took my first watercolor class in October 1996. In September of 1998, to celebrate turning fifty, I had my first solo show, and I was accepted into my first art gallery.  

My art process is simple. I take my own photos and use them to create a composition. I focus on color, pattern, and movement. I begin painting what appeals to me and then, if I am lucky, the vision takes over. I work over the entire piece, one section at a time. After the first application of watercolor has dried, I reapply another coat. I continue glazing until I have applied 5 to 8 applications of color. I use transparent paints to maintain the “white of the paper” resulting in vibrant and intense coloration.  My emphasis is always on color, pattern, and movement. 

I have built a wholesale business selling my original art reproduced as giclee prints, cards, tiles, coasters, mouse pads, and cutting boards to retail stores from New York to San Francisco. I produce everything in my studio in Gig Harbor. My art is always on display at Gallery Row in Gig Harbor, WA. Visit Kate’s website by clicking HERE

Carla O’Connor

Mardie Rees

Beth Owen

Patricia Meras

Born and raised in Montana, I always dreamed of becoming a painter but thought it an improbable journey. Fortunately, I was awarded a scholarship to Montana State University in Bozeman receiving my degree in Applied Art which included studies abroad in Italy and the Netherlands. I’ve continued to study on my own and with nationally known artists whose work I admire. For many years, my focus was on drawing from the live model in black and white. Colored pencil, oil pastel and watercolor followed.  Later I experimented with various hand pulled printmaking techniques: etching, embossing, relief roll, mono printing and collage. My approach evolved however, after moving to a lake in the Pacific Northwest with my family 30 years ago. The water, an ever-changing landscape with its dreamy nuances of light became a frequent subject, and an interest in the ethereal aspects of the landscape emerged. It was then that I returned to a more painterly approach and found pastel to be a wonderful link between drawing and painting. The pastel sticks enable a variety of thick and thin lines, deliberate studied strokes and bold gestural mark making. The ability to smoosh the pigment around, combined with the liveliness of its colors, foster a passionate, poetic language. My intent is simply to convey an emotional and intuitive response to the mystery and serenity of the landscape in light and shadow. 

Early travel experiences in Europe as a student sparked a desire to return as a real live painter many years later! I was slow to embrace the surprising joys of painting outdoors in natural light though. It’s challenging to chase that light and deal with the elements of nature. Fortunately, the thrill of observing the way light behaves in nature, lingers long after the disappointment of wind, mosquitos, dogs, cows, sunburn, well-meaning strolling critics, clouds and rain! Plein Air Painting has brought good fortune to me also in the wonderful painters I’ve met along the way, which has resulted in recent painting trips to Tuscany, Cornwall and Puerto Vallarta. Painting is a lifelong learning process for me which requires constant study, exploration and discovery. That not so improbable journey continues.  

My professional experiences include work as an illustrator, curator and gallery chairwoman, art teacher, juror, guest artist, mural painting, volunteer with community arts programs and an art docent with the public school system. Fine Art Reproductions of my paintings have been produced and distributed worldwide by Winn Devon and Grand Image of Seattle. My work was chosen as one of Pastel Journal Magazine’s top 100 paintings of the year in 2014, 2015 & 2016. More of my paintings can be viewed at the American Art Company Gallery in Tacoma, WA. See more on my website, HERE 

Ann Stockdale

Patsy Surh O’Connell

Kathy North Thurston

Bella Kim

Since I was a child, it has always been my joy and feeling of accomplishment to create something. I also realized that my creative activity was a way to strengthen my relationships with others by giving them my drawings, Christmas cards, and doll clothes. So, it was not surprising that I chose Design and Fabric Dyeing as my major when I entered college. After graduating from college, my art world extended to mixed media. I started experiments with the fabric by dyeing and giving it three dimensional structures and adding different skills. I discovered these allowed fiber’s natural softness to have unexpected shapes. By coming into the new country, I explored a new way of thinking about art. First, several years of immigration in the United States were a kind of silent period in my artist career. I had to get used to this new environment by learning the English language and culture. By working as a painter in an antique repair store, I didn’t lose the string of hope that I would continue to develop my own art. I started making wearable artworks such as ornaments, ties, brooches, scarves, and bags to display in some local craft stores. Although I did not make much money, I was encouraged when my art might have sparked people’s delight. I truly enjoyed more creating artworks than selling them. As my family settled down in Gig Harbor, WA in 2008, and I joined KAAW (Korean American Artist Association of Washington), my art life entered a new phase. In the new phase, I wanted to discover a larger community and share my story through exhibition art. I have been accepted from juried shows at Kirkland Art Center, Schack Art Center, and Columbia City Gallery in 2021. In 2022, I joined NWDC (Northwest Designer Craftsmen) and BAC (Bainbridge Arts & Crafts). I like to focus on using recyclable materials to create my artwork. I want my art to inspire people to appreciate how ordinary materials can be used. I hope we people can be a part of earth’s health in everyday life. Transformation of useless materials for meaningful results gives me endless joy. Visit Bella’s website HERE

Lea Basile-Lazarus

I make art out of the need to react, to express, and to reflect about the world around me, whether it be politics, social justice issues, community interactions, or the natural environment that surrounds me, the Pacific Northwest. Through the pandemic I repurposed artwork, weaving, printing, and painting on my images. I have explored the purity that embossments bring to a piece of art, but I have a need to embellish and create my personal story with obsessive mark making. I have been using contemporary printmaking and papermaking techniques to express these thoughts and ideas but have recently begun painting since my work has become more fluid and spontaneous. 

I work on more than one image at a time, moving from one to another, layering different stencils, shapes, and colors, while maintaining the same thought process. Paper pulp painting is spontaneous; I am actively engaged in the process. My entire body moves, from mixing pigments in paper pulp, to cutting stencils, to making marks or writing words with syringes and turkey basters with the gestural movement of my arm. The mental and physical energy it takes to think, move, and react to the images that are emerging is what makes this process so exciting and invigorating. I have brought this energy into my printmaking and painting. The mark making becomes the conversations, the emotions, and the words that are not meant to be heard. The colors can be conflicting and dramatic. They can also be peaceful in those moments when I forget and are able to breathe more freely. Exploration of these materials and contemporary techniques have provided me with the tools to create unique surfaces that express the thoughts and emotions that relate to my surroundings and the greater world. 

My husband and I have recently moved to Gig Harbor, from Evanston, Il, so that we would be closer to my son and his family. I am fortunate to have a home printmaking studio where I create artwork that has been influenced by my new surroundings.  I am active in the Gig Harbor art community. I have joined Gallery Row, a collaborative art gallery, located at 3102 Harborview Drive in Gig Harbor.  My home studio will be opened during the Gig Harbor Open Studio Tour, which is taking place September 16th through 18th. My paper pulp paintings are created at Hook Pottery Paper in La Porte, Indiana, where I visit annually. See more by clicking HERE

Anne Moore Knapp

GIG HARBOR GALLERIES

EBB TIDE GALLERY

Established in 1984, the Ebb Tide Gallery is Gig Harbor’s oldest artist’s cooperative.  Ebb Tide Gallery is a bright, vibrant gallery with 12 artists in residence displaying a wide variety of art.  Photography, abstract acrylics, pen and ink, pastels, and watercolor originals can be found on our walls. Floor displays showcase the incredible talent of our woodworking team, glass artist, and potter.

Having occupied several locations since the mid 1980’s, we are currently located at 7809 Pioneer Way, near the heart of Gig Harbor’s waterfront. Venture in on any given day and you will find one of our talented artists working in the gallery. We’re open 7 days a week, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the summer and 11:00 to 5:00 the rest of the year.

You can find out more about our gallery, current artists, and displays by visiting our website HERE.  Follow us on Facebook (The Ebb Tide Art Gallery) and Instagram: @ebbtidegallery.

GALLERY ROW

Located in the picturesque old town of Gig Harbor along the harbor, you will find our Gallery representing the work of 16 local artists.  We pride ourselves on being a destination Gallery that our neighbors bring their visiting guests to visit.  We have rooms of treasures to investigate.  Since we are a co-operative Gallery, anytime you visit one of the artists will be here to welcome you. 

Our mediums include Oil, Watercolor, Acrylic, Stained Glass, Fused Glass, Wood Turning, Ceramics, Jewelry, Monotypes, and Collage.  We have original artwork available, and we have numerous small gift ideas such as art tiles and trivets, coasters, glass sushi sets, small originals, cards, earrings, and reproductions.   

Gallery Row has been in continuous operation since 1988.   Some of the initial artists are still creating and showing their art.  We change the Gallery every single month to keep it fresh and pique your interest.   After all, your support makes our art possible.  Please come visit one of the nicest Galleries in Gig Harbor.   We would love to meet you!  Learn more HERE

The BIRDNEST ART GALLERY & CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING is located in the scenic downtown waterfront district of Gig Harbor, WA. 

PUBLIC ART

#1- “Memory Vessel”- (metal Norse boat), by artist Stuart Nakamura, honors the Scandinavian heritage of Gig Harbor, located at Bogue Viewing Platform, 8763 North Harborview Dr. 

#2- “Fishermen’s Memorial”- (metal and net statue), by artist Alexandre Safronov, located in Skansie Park, 3207 Harborview Dr. 

#3- “Buck and King Salmon”- (two metal salmon on angled metal posts), by artist is Mir & Doug McCarville, glass metal fusion, located at 3117 Harborview Dr. 

#4- “Tree Snag Art” by artist George Kenny, located at Grandview Forest Park, 3488 Grandview St.

#5- “Puget Sound”- (wood carving with various Puget Sound critters), by artist Jeff Samudosky, located at Crescent Creek Park, 3303 Vernhardson St. 

#6- “Mussel Beach”- (granite carving of three mussels), artist Verena Schwippert, located at Eddon Boat Park, 3805 North Harborview Drive. 

#7- “Ringing In the Salmon”- (metal salmon with bell), by artists Tom Torrens & Benjam P. Insitt, located at Donkey Creek Park, 8714 North Harborview Drive. 

Photos by Beth Owen

In April thousands of people have come to the La Conner Washington for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. La Conner is the center of all of this. The bright fields of different colored tulips stretch out in beautiful array. Painters have painted these fields. Photographers never tire capturing these flowers. The blue sky with sprinkles of clouds and trees and mountains far in the background make a getaway trip to La Conner a feast for the eyes. For those who miss the tulip festival, La Conner has a daffodil festival that fills their fields as well.

If you miss the festivals, however, there are still reasons to go to La Conner for a holiday. You will find restaurants, hotels, bed and breakfasts, and shops. You will also find art! Art is everywhere in La Conner. There are formal galleries and museums like MoNA, The Museum of Northwest Art which is dedicated to the works of the original artists of the Northwest School (art) whose artists became well known in 1953 after LIFE magazine featured them in article. There are more casual exhibits of art like you may find in “La Conner Sips” a local wine bar. There are galleries run by the artists themselves with lovely, inspiring, intriguing work filling the gallery.

It is said that artists were inspired by the ethereal light in La Conner. They are also inspired by the surrounding land, the variety of people living and working there like the fishermen, farmers, writers, musicians and…artists. The Swinomish Tribe lives across the channel and you can see their art in the museums and galleries. La Conner has an air of community. When you walk into the shops and restaurants people are friendly. Those who live in La Conner have a saying, “Once you visit, we know you’ll be back!” And it is true. Folks come back again and again for the flower festivals, the guitar festival, the art festivals like “Arts Alive” that will take palace November 5, 6, 7,8. Regardless of the season, there is always something to do or see in La Conner.

Kevin "Wah lee hub" Paul

Nancy Crowell

Nancy Crowell has lived in the town of La Conner for more than two decades and has been photographing the flora, fauna and landscapes of the Skagit Valley for almost as long. Her work varies widely, from macro close-ups to sweeping landscapes to night skies, but the work she gravitates toward more frequently these days is recording birds and wildlife for the purpose of engaging the public in conservation. The consistent thread in all her subjects is a unique vision that evokes the emotional experience of her view. A writer, lover of Nature, and a Master Gardener, she brings all of her insight to bear in the images she shares.  

Her work has decorated five-star hotels and private collections as far away as Australia. Custom prints are available via direct contact as she loves to work with clients to understand exactly what they want. She also offers prints at two fine art shows a year, one in Spring and one in Fall, at River Gallery in Mount Vernon. Additionally, designers seeking bulk orders or custom pieces for large spaces can access much of her work through her publisher, Third and Wall Art Group in Seattle.  

To see her most current work, follow her on Instagram via @crowellphotography and @crowellwildlife, and follow her on Facebook. To subscribe to her mailing list, view show schedules and review her work, visit her web site at CrowellPhotography.com  

Charlotte Slade Decker

I am an artist in soul, and a dancer in spirit.  I am inspired by color, music, movement and dance.  I like to think they all have the same considerations, just with different vocabularies.  I use composition, color, line, and shapes much like sound or dance to convey mood, rhythm, texture, and space. 

My intention is to embrace the "fiercely feminine" and trust the urge to be my authentic self.   I take great joy in the act of creating.  I am process oriented in my work. I have several pieces in various stages of developing at any given moment. Some happen quickly, others take years.   I try to stay open, allowing intuitive impulses to guide me.  Given the many choices, in art making, I choose to follow the FUN, often making messes.  I do relish the revelations I may encounter along the way.  For me, creating is an irrepressible urge, a journey of spontaneity, discovery and mystery. It defines who I am 

See more of Charlotte’s artwork at Charlotte Slade Decker, Oil and Acrylic Paintings

Peregrine O'Gormley

Margaret Carpenter Arnett

Margaret Carpenter Arnett was born and educated in England and has lived most of her adult life in the western United States.  Artist, therapist, teacher, writer, mother, and grandmother, she is an accomplished and talented artist working in watercolor, pastel, collage and mixed media. 

Her award-winning watercolors are hanging in collections in England and throughout the United States.  She has participated in juried and invitational shows in the northwest and had many successful one-woman shows. In 1984 she published her first book, Seasons of Change, a thoughtful blend of words and watercolors.  She is currently represented by galleries in Seattle, and La Conner Washington.  

Believing that art facilitates healing both through self-expression, and as a key to the unconscious mind Margaret has worked as an art therapist in medical settings and in the community at large for the past thirty years.  “To painting, writing, and therapy, Margaret brings the same philosophy within her work there is strength, gentleness, reality and a special faith that good will prevail despite hardship.  Her work is neither contrived nor overly conceived.  She paints what she sees and feels in an uncommon manner.”  

Margaret lives in La Conner, Washington. See more of Margaret’s artwork at Margaret Carpenter Arnett - Artist, Art Therapist & Author

Michael Eberhardt

Marts Modern

Tim Wistrom

Museum of Northwest Art (MoNA)

The Wood Merchant Gallery

The Wood Merchant has been a fixture in La Conner for 38 years. The gallery represents the work of between 180 and 200 independent American artisans, with a strong focus on Northwest craftspeople. The vast majority of our suppliers are one and two person shops. 

Fine woodwork has straddled the world of art and function for centuries, with each generation bringing new vision, tools, and techniques to the art. Today’s craftspeople have available the complete legacy of the art; but it is, as it has always been, the vision and creativity of the artist who makes the difference between the outstanding and the mundane. The Wood Merchant artists are at the top of their craft. Whether you are buying a bowl, an art mirror, or a dining room table, you will be getting a one of a kind creation of a great artisan. Located at 709 South 1st Street.

Brad Gallahar: Brad is a master furniture maker with style versatility from Craftsman era design to contemporary. He works in domestic hardwoods highlighted with the sparkling textures and grains of exotics. Brad makes dining and occasional tables, buffets and dressers, bedframes and living room furniture. He is outstanding at turning a customer vision into a warm living space. His techniques and finishing are pristine; a true artisan furnituremaker 

Tim Layzell: . Tim is a master at using both traditional and modern technology to create unusual, multi textured tables for any application. Tim is a “tree to table” artisan, which is quite unusual in the trade. He purchases newly felled trees and follows a a many year system of mills, kilns, drying racks, and multiple steps in cutting and finishing to bring each table to life. Tim enjoys using custom forged metal, contemporary epoxy resin and colored glass cut with a computerized waterjet to accent his pieces with several media. His pieces are stunning and one of a kind. 

Dale Larson: Dale is a master wood turner who creates fine “salad” bowls from northwest wood. He works in maple burl, black and English walnut, and madrone. Madrone is a particularly difficult wood to work because of its instability, so there are few turners who create the type of fine, smoothly finished pieces in madrone that Dale does. He is also one of only a handful of craftsmen who turns oval (as opposed to circular round) bowls. Each of his pieces are multi-generational heirlooms. Visit the website at Northwest fine woodworking and gifts - La Conner, Washington (woodmerchant.com)

Waterfall Gallery

 Waterfall Gallery is the newest venture for the owners of The Wood Merchant in La Conner.  It is located in an historic building, originally Fletcher’s Saloon in 1895, which has been a gallery in some form for about 40 years.  Newly remodeled and refurbished, the Waterfall Gallery features fine American craftsmanship in a variety of media.  One goal is to showcase the use of a variety of textures and forms together in the home or workplace to create an elegant, artistic space which will be a feast for the senses.  Glass, Metal, Ceramic, Shell, Stone, and yes, more wood all playing together!  With the year we have all just been through, we feel like our collection is just beginning and will blossom from the core group we have been able to get together so far. 

Evan Fumento: A Boeing Engineering Supervisor by day, Evan puts an engineer’s precision into both classic and contemporary designs. Since he has “a day job” and is early in his woodworking career, Evan is not a high-volume producer; but every piece is a treasure.

Jim Hannen: Jim started his artistic journey as a traditional stained-glass worker; both repairing classic stained-glass windows and foraging into his own colored glass creations. He came up with the concept of using vintage fishing floats in lighting as part of the leaded in piecing. And as they say, the rest is history. Jim’s lighting includes chandeliers and other ceiling mounted fixtures, wall sconces, table lamps, and nightlights. They are constructed by meticulously hand cutting floats and placing them with smaller handmade bubbles and creating the structure with traditional leading. Every piece is truly one of a kind.

Joe Kaftan: Like Jim, Joe started out with a very traditional glass art – that of glass mosaic. Joe’s father was a mosaic artist and taught Joe the basics. Joe’s technique challenges the limits of the classic pre-cut, usually square or triangle bits of glass which are grouted into a base. In addition, or instead of the traditional, Joe hand nips irregular shards of glass in a cacophony of color and shape, placing them to create multi-layer texture. He often constructs on an irregular wood base and eliminates the grout for a 3-dimensional effect. Joe’s images are often inspired by wildlife and the natural beauty of the Northwest; but will also do photo-accurate custom portraiture. Located at 701 South 1st Street

Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum

That’s Knot All, an Artists’ Cooperative

That’s Knot All, DBA La Conner Artists’ Gallery a Cooperative Spirit was born the end of March 2012.  Starting with nothing more than a space in an old building, some chairs and a mission to create a space for artists.  Artists have come and gone but the business continued to grow so in April 2017 we had an opportunity to relocated to the front more visible location in the same building.  Our artists requested to make a modification in our name to better reflect our business so we became also known as La Conner Artists Gallery a Cooperative Spirit.  2020 was a challenging year but not even Covid could stop the growth that we were experiencing, we were forced to close for two months but each month after reopening we have far exceeded every record previously set. 

Today in the fall of 2021 we are planning a March/April 2022 celebration to honor our artists and the business’s 10 years of success.  We are so fortunate to have 24 amazing artists in house and still room to grow.  Our artists participate in the stores day to day operation. Whether you are shopping for yourself or someone else, you have the added benefit of meeting one of our artists. This artist-customer relationship invites participation in a refreshing and friendly atmosphere.

We are conveniently located at 128 South First Street directly across the street from the La Conner Post office.  Our spring/summer business hours are 10:00 am to 5:30pm and fall/winter hours are 10:30 to 5:00 pm. Applications available upon request. Check us out on Facebook at @thatsknotallartists or our website at Art | La Conner Artists Gallery a Cooperative Spirit | United States (wixsite.com)

Content below added May 2021

Georgia Gerber-Sculpture

“I feel a connection with the natural world. I am comfortable when animals are around, and my sculpture has always been inspired by their beauty and grace. Inspired, but not confined. I enjoy pushing shapes beyond realistic – sometimes for a whimsical effect, sometimes purely for the rhythm of the lines and my sense of aesthetics.  I believe that my most successful work could be stripped of its figurative elements and the underlying forms remain beautiful. 

I also enjoy narration, especially as a part of my public installations. I try to engage the viewer’s imagination by presenting a moment in an incomplete story. By suggesting a theme and a feeling, viewers find themselves providing details. Making art brings me joy, and to know that my art brings joy to others seems to me about the best bargain ever made. When I am able to share my creativity I feel that I am contributing. It gives me a sense a purpose.  

 The latest news from my studio is the launching of my new website, to see, click HERE.  It features available sculpture, as well as a wonderful chronological gallery of my major public artworks from the first installation in 1983 to the pieces just recently created for First Hill Park in Seattle”.

Georgia Gerber Interview by Delores Peck, June 2021

Georgia Gerber, as we already mentioned, is the mother of Laura Hudson. Art truly does run in this family! While Laura is a painter, Georgia is a sculptor. "Though I am considered a 'bronze sculptor', the actual medium I work with is clay," she says. She spends her day in the studio, well, sculpting, although there are times when planning and creating armatures (for support) must be done.

 Inspired by nature, mostly animals, Georgia creates works that are lovely and timeless and charming and grand. Many of them are life-sized and publicly displayed in parks and other common areas. She has works in Wichita and Seattle as well as many in Langley. Rachel, the Pike Place Market Mascot, familiar to every Seattle resident and tourist, is Georgia's work.

BOHO Art by Potter

BOHO Art by Potter creates visually brilliant and original 3D art on a vertical axis. Their one of a kind art poles are carved, embossed and painted on solid cedar with bright and beautiful, wild and whimsical themes from nature and other favorite things. Cats and teapots, roadrunners and flowers, butterflies, turtles and ocean creatures, their charming designs are painted with a dazzling acrylic palette and finished with three coats of glossy spar varnish. The art poles are created to be sturdy enough to display outdoors in the garden, but are lovely enough to be the centerpiece in any setting. They range in size from 14 inches, for display on a table or cabinet, up to six feet tall. See more information HERE

Joan  Govedare-Night Sky Studio 

Anne Niles Davenport-RainShadow Textiles 

“Born and raised on a family dairy farm, I learned early a strong work ethic. My Quaker mother and grandmother made sure I learned to knit and sew well, my father taught me how to handle and understand equipment and animals. Years later, in my early 30's, I encountered weaving on a dare from a friend.  I resisted, but fumbled my way through a first warp; I still have that piece of cloth, which shows glimmerings of my future aesthetic. The fumbling has for the most part ended, but the steady forward progression of inner-directed learning and experimentation has never ceased. About ten years ago, I invested in my first computer-assisted loom; the learning curve was daunting and lengthy. Working with technically advanced equipment has enabled me to create weaving that sometimes approaches my wildest dreams”.  See Anne’s blog HERE

Laura Hudson-Painter

“On the rural Island where I live it is common to come across sheep grazing in a pasture, cows curled up under a tree in the summer shade, or a group of hens pecking at the grass along the fence lines of their pens. It may be the calmness of the animals or the simplicity of the scenes, but these moments convey a sense of peace. This is what I try to bring to my studio. I begin with images of the animals, allowing their forms to determine the composition. I then let my intuition and whimsy play with colors and paint marks until the animals have come to life and the hues are balanced. My hope is that these paintings carry with them that same easy feeling that inspires me. I want them to bring joy and a comforting charm to the homes they live in”. See more of Laura’s artwork HERE

Laura Hudson Interview by Delores Peck, June 2021

The sensations of rural living - the sounds of chickens and crickets, the smell of hay and sunshine - come to life when you look at Laura Hudson's paintings. There are flowers, bunnies and blue chickens all feeling comfortable and homey. It's obvious that Laura loves her home, her family and her work. And she should. Her work is wonderful, colorful, whimsical and charming.

 Family obviously means much to Laura. "My mom, Georgia Gerber, makes bronze sculptures of animals," she says. Growing up with her is probably one of my biggest influences and inspirations." We couldn't resist including Georgia's profile in this edition of Small Community Focus, so you will see hers following Laura's. This month, SCF is a family affair. 

 Covid has naturally effected Laura's artistic career. "I had my paintings up at two local restaurants and would sell a lot of work that way," she says. "When Covid-19 shut everything down, so did one of my sales outlets. The other way I was impacted was my kids' preschool closed for a few months, which meant they would often end up in my studio with me. It wasn't as productive of a time, but we have some good memories from it." Nevertheless, she remains upbeat about it. "I think all artists are always a little/a lot scared that they won't survive off of their art and Covid-19 really upped that panic," she told us. "I am so grateful when a painting sells and I get to keep on going. I love being able to work solely as an artist."

And Laura works hard at what she loves. She works on three to five of her acrylic paintings during the day. She likes, she says, to have a lot of work going at once. Someday, she told us, she would like to turn a barn she owns into a gallery. "Sometimes, I think of making really outrageous paintings," she say, "or trying to go completely abstract. I always imagine myself getting pretty out there when I am older." We will be eager to see what happens!

Langley’s Public Art

Rob Schouten Gallery & Sculpture Garden

“Langley on Whidbey Island has become one of the premier art towns in the Puget Sound region. Visual and performing arts are a mainstay of the island economy, and the island is home to many well-known artists in a variety of media. Galleries, studios, and outdoor sculptures displayed all over town make Langley a well-liked destination for art lovers”. Rob Schouten

Museo Gallery

Museo is a contemporary art gallery known for showing regionally and nationally acclaimed artists in a variety of mediums, sizes and price points. From its beginning almost 20 years ago, Museo has consistently shown excellent art in it's beautiful, open and light-filled gallery space.  Purchased in 2018 by Seattle artist, Michael Dickter and Nancy Whittaker, Museo continues that legacy, with new shows monthly that inspire and delight.  Located at 215 First St, downtown Langley. See more about Museo HERE

“With public art all around, art galleries and performance spaces in all four corners, and artist studios galore, the arts in Langley is thriving and growing. The arts are important in here, I think it might be one of the essentials, after shelter & food and it shows”. Nancy Whittaker

Callahan’s Firehouse Studio Gallery

The Whidbey Island Art Gallery

The Whidbey Art Gallery, doing business for over 25 years, offers high quality fine artwork by local artists who have been juried into the gallery. Their art includes paintings (oil, watercolor, acrylic and encaustic), photography, digital art, colored pencil, printmaking, wood and stone carving, jewelry, glass, metal, sculpture, and fiber art. Unique among Langley galleries, they provide juried artists the opportunity to display and sell their work on a daily basis as well as take a part of the operations and decision-making processes of the gallery. Whidbey Art Gallery is located at 220 Second St in downtown Langley. The gallery also features an online store. See this and more information HERE

WICA-Whidbey Island Center for the Arts WICA

Artworks Gallery

Content below added Feb 2021

Like most artists, Sue Roberts focuses her day around her studio. "I built a clay studio with plenty of work space and a separate building for my kiln," she says. Occasionally she likes to switch to another medium - she has worked with metal, wood and found objects - but she always goes back to clay. And her sculptures are delightful! Many of them are of ordinary people doing ordinary things, but they are somehow more than people. A young man taking a selfie with a tree is so full of joy that it makes you want to laugh. Same with the young woman reaching up to capture a wave.

Sue has always known that she wanted to be an artist. "When I graduated from college, I did a little teaching at an art school in Florida, but was mainly focused on being a full time, self-employed studio artist," she says. And now, she's living the dream. "It's been over 35 years of self-employment, and every decade I seem to re-invent what I do in order to be able to continue my art practice. Keeps me on my toes and I am rarely bored!"

It is this focus that has helped Sue through the Covid crisis. Before, she taught out of her studio, sold work in galleries and juried shows, but, of course, all that went away. "As someone who has been self-employed most of my career," she says, "I am used to the ups and downs of earning a livelihood. I try to keep my overhead low, which helps in times of financial and work slow-downs." She has participated in a couple of virtual shows and, while they are not ideal, she likes the idea of pairing physical shows with virtual ones for those who can't visit in person.

Take a look at Sue's page at the Guemes Island Art Initiative website, here, and enjoy her wonderful, whimsical work.

Chris LeBoutillier

Chris LeBoutillier's passion is his deep love of nature. For most of his life he has been photographing wildlife and glorying in his time outdoors behind his camera.  Nature is what inspires him and what fills his days. "Being able to show a part of the world that many are unable to see is inspiring in itself," he says.  "I hope, when people see my photos, it will help make a difference in protecting and appreciating nature and its wildlife."

Chris is virtually surrounded by the animals and woods of Guemes Island where he makes his home. "Sometimes," he says, "I get extremely lucky and the animals will practically pose for me. Other days, I could spend hours deep in the woods and see no wildlife. "You can't tell nature what to do," he says, "and that's what makes it special." 

He says his practice hasn't changed much over time. The advent of new and better technology has his given him the opportunity to improve his photos. At the same time, thanks to improving editing software and social media, he can share his photos with thousands of people. Sometimes he gets thought provoking comments about certain species of animals he has photographed. "This leads me into researching these animals so that I can have a better understanding of them, and can help provide the correct information," he says. In this way, he feels, he can give people a better understanding of nature and its critical role. He truly is making the world a better place.

Nature photography is a hobby for Chris, he says. But one look at his photographs tells us that it is much more than that. 

You can see more of Chris' work at the Guemes Island Art Initiative site here.

Julie deRouche

Julie DeRouche has been working with porcelain since the 1980s. It's evident that she speaks its language and porcelain speaks hers. Her works -- unique, whimsical and downright delightful -- speak to us all.

Inspired by the plants around her in the woods, the patterns in a leaf, in bark and rocks or in a feather on her duck's back, Julie's ceramics often reflect the natural world. Her Luna Ware line -- those pieces with balls on them -- are wonderfully fun. "When I did my first Flower and Garden Show in San Francisco," she tells us, "A woman picked out a bowl and said 'My husband is going to love this,' which made me smile. Then she said 'He's blind.' and that made my eyes just swell. Bringing joy in a totally new way was great!"

We asked Julie about her biggest artistic achievement so far. "The largest Cod mural in the world (in 2009), in Canada," she said. "The mural is on Fogo Island in Newfoundland Labrador. It was in a wonderful community for an experience I will never forget." The mural is 8' x 12' and consists of 840 4 inch tiles. "I had never done a mural before and it was and still is quite the learning experience. The folks that I met there were wonderful. Many friends for life."

She's been hard hit by the Covid crisis, though. "I've taken a year," she says, "to give the clay side a rest. Materials are expensive, getting them, extra hard." Since her suppliers are struggling too, Julie isn't sure she'll be able to get what she's used to working with. Her communication with porcelain, just now, has broken down. We are sure that Julie will be back, communicating with her porcelain as creative as ever!

The Guemes Island Art Initiative has given her a much needed portal for her artwork at the Guemes Island Art Initiative site here.

Cedar Petrick

Cedar Petrick has a deep and abiding love of nature. Not only did she grow up with it, she now incorporates it into all aspects of her art. "Art finds many forms in my life --" she says, "garden design, floral arrangements, dried botanical wreaths and wall hangings, drawings, watercolor paintings, functional and sculptural ceramics, and photography of my work and nature."

 Cedar's "studio" is not a typical one. She grows materials for her floral designs in her garden. She watercolors notecards and paintings at her desk. She uses her home, full of the flowers, feathers, rocks and shells as her workplace - her studio, and finds inspiration in their natural lines, shapes, colors and scents.

Along with her mother, Cedar runs Hummingbird Island Farm, a part-time business, growing and harvesting flowers for weddings and events as well as her bouquet subscribers. She told us that "each bouquet is a unique combination of color, texture and fragrance." One look at one of her lovely arrangements and you can almost catch the drifting scents of stock, nasturtiums, lilies and pine! "I have tried just about every medium that I can afford and had access to over the years," Cedar tells us. "I enjoy trying new things." She plans to continue improving her hand-built ceramic making skills and make a complete set of tableware for her home.

Covid, of course, has impacted Cedar's business. While she has continued to grow her garden, the weddings and events stopped, leaving her with an abundance of fresh flowers. "I ended up drying a lot more than I intended," she says. "But it worked out because demand for my dried botanical art increased."

You can see more of Cedar's work at the Guemes Island Art Initiative site here.

Sam Barr

Art, Sam Barr says, is not his full time job. "Being Indigenous is full-time, but art is just part of that," he says. He, as well as his art, are steeped in tradition. He works full time to protect archeological sites in Coast Salish territory so he must find time for art wherever he can. His medium of choice is Salish art. That encompasses wood, paint, paper, drums and songs. "I really can't narrow it down more than that," he told us. "Each facet of Coast Salish art contributes to the whole process."

Sam's wood carvings are wonderful, as are his painted pieces and weavings. They impart a feeling of energy and power. His works are useful too. He makes bowls, paddles, fish clubs, hats and drums to be used by his family and friends.

Inspiration, for Sam, comes from historical examples of Salish art. "Pre-contact and early-contact pieces are very rare," he says, "but they do exist and they set the design standard for modern Coast Salish art." He takes inspiration from traditional stories and ecological relationships as well.

Sam carves where he can - at the kitchen sink, sometimes in the garage and sometimes outside.  And he works when he can. Like for many of his contemporaries, Covid has removed child care options and he has smaller amounts of time when he can immerse himself in his art. But, he says, he will never give up. "I would love to take my practice deeper," he says, "by creating pieces that are used for more meaningful practice. Such as fish spears to be used on salmon, ceremonial stone bowls, masks to be used in ceremonies. Even the elegant 'decorative' pieces were designed for a spiritual purpose that connects people to place. I want to see the culture revived, not just the culture's art."

We asked Sam what he considered his biggest artistic achievement. "My most authentic design," he told us, "that really achieved the beauty and grace within the traditional style, is a blue heron drum. (You can see it pictured at the right) I spent two months working on the design. Finally, when I was finished, I gifted the drum to my great-grandmother, the Samish matriarch of my family."

We thank Sam for his dedication to keeping our local history alive through its art.

Donna McCord

There seems to be a universal fascination with glass with its liquid solidity and its translucent color. Donna McCord is fortunate to have found a way to live with glass.  "I had been studying ceramics, painting and photography for many years before I was introduced to glass blowing," she says. "When I went into my first hotshop, I fell in love with the process and began moving in that direction. That was January of 1999."

Since then, glass has connected Donna to a broad community of students eager to learn and she revels in teaching. Indeed, she was included in the Bellevue Art Museum's retrospective of teachers from Pratt Fine Arts in Seattle in 2018. This is in addition to several other honors including starting the Beacon Glass Center, a non-profit arts education community center in 2019.

Of course, the pandemic has drastically limited Donna's ability to hold classes and, as glassblowing is a social activity, the possibilities are severely limited. "I have had to learn how to work primarily by myself," she tells us. "I have been working with a small group of islanders and in support of the island home school efforts.

But she has forged ahead. She loves working with nature also and has been incorporating more outdoor artwork such as cedar circles. Someday she would like to attempt a large-scale site- specific work.

"I find it inspirational to know that when we are connected with our joy," she says," when we are in flow and flowing our joy, we are able to form new connections in our mind. This gives me a deep sense of purpose that the work I do contributes to the lives of the people who come through the studio in a direct way of connecting them with the value of their life and experience."

Kathy Whitman

Water, it seems, has always been a part of Kathy Whitman's life. She used to be the Aquatics Manager for Seattle Parks and Recreation, then moved to Guemes Island and was literally surrounded by water. What could be more natural, then, for her to gravitate to working with watercolor?

Kathy is, as many of you know, the President of Northwest Art Alliance. What you may not know is that she is also the Vice-President of the Guemes Island Community Center Association (GICCA). Besides her volunteer work she is also an artist who works in pen, colored pencil and clay as well as watercolor.

Kathy's world, like everyone's, has been impacted by Covid.  "Before Covid-19", she says, "I would go to Seattle periodically to teach Senior Adult sketching classes for Seattle Parks and Recreation." In addition, she joined the Anacortes Sketchers group on Mondays for events. Now, she does FaceTime with her 8 year old granddaughter. "We can do art projects together in different places," she tells us. "In a recent art project, she was the instructor and told me what materials, techniques and subject we were going to use in our watercolor effort."

A planner, Kathy has big plans for the future. "I have many boxes of broken dishes that I saved for mosaics," she says, "and am now making garden step stones that include yellow coffee cups that were part of my childhood." She's been preparing for a large acrylic painting and is working on a quilt as well.

It is her work with NWAA and GICCA that Kathy considers her biggest artistic achievement. "I know that my volunteer time is making a difference," she says. "The substantial impacts of Covid-19 on artists has motivated me to put more energy into a survival mode for NWAA. At the end of 2020, we made a list of accomplishments for the year that was staggering and looks to the future to build more!"

Loalynda Bird

In a word, Loalynda Bird is multi-dimensional. As she herself says, "I have never, ever, only done one thing. I am constantly trying new things."

Is there any medium Loalynda has not tried? Maybe. But she's such a glowing light amid her beautiful luminary light sculptures that it's hard to focus on any other.  Starting with an organic reed frame, Loalynda builds her works with layers of paper and finishes with unryu (rice or mulberry paper) and recycled decorative papers. At last, she installs them with lights inside and they are used in light parades and other light installations. "I started creating luminaries and helped start the illuminight Walk in Mount Vernon," she says, "then was inspired to start an Earth Day parade five years ago on Guemes." That led her to a grant, and she participated in leading the 2019 Luminata at Greenlake Park in Seattle. She also received a grant from the Fremont Art Council. "It was an honor to create an Equinox Mermaid Goddess and lead hundreds of people from the AquaTheatre to the Light Art Park, as well as having my entire Paper Birds Studio team featured as one of the light installations in the park," she told us. An honor, indeed, and not surprising. Loalynda's brilliantly colored fish, flowers and birds are truly spectacular!

Once the Coronavirus took over the world, Loalynda was forced  step back and regroup.  "I had 50+ people booked for classes," she says. "I had four parades booked; the Mount Vernon Illuminight, Guemes Luminary Earth Day Parade, Olympia Light Parade and Greenlake Luminata. And the grand opening of my Paper Birds Studio. All were cancelled."

Does all that affect her ability to survive as an artist? "No!" she said. She immediately started brainstorming new parades, new light installations and new ways of getting her work seen. She beefed up her online presence and created a virtual tour of her studio. She began a new collection called "Seasons of Light" including a luminary Snow Leopard, her largest work yet. In other words, she's using her time to grow and explore as an artist.

"If my art motivates the viewer to want to create - my heart sings. If my art lifts someone's spirit and puts a smile on their face - my heart sings. If someone looks at my art and is inspired to ask me to teach them, my heart will know that I have empowered them to believe in themselves through art. There are no words for that kind of joy!"

Carol Steffy

Guemes Island Art Initiative - Celebrating Guemes Island Art and Artists

Do you have a small art community in mind? What does it mean to be selected as the featured Small Community Focus?

• Small town of 10,000 population or less with an artist community

• Three times a year NWAA will select a community to be featured in the monthly Spectrum Newsletter with subscriptions serving over 7500 people.

• This one community art center will be the focus during that four month period that could include photos and/or history, narrative, and a link to a combined website.

• Interviews and art for one or two artists could be featured each month for a combined total of up to 8 artists. Spectrum Newsletter editor Delores Peck will interview and write about each featured artist.

• At the end of four months, the web link to the community will remain, but the primary focus will shift to another area within the region.

• NWAA relies on volunteers to accomplish most of the work and intends to work with that community to find the best way to capture the art and artist stories that are waiting to be told.

• There is no cost - just wonderful benefits of public visibility, increased awareness of a thriving art experience, and community pride.

Please let us know if there is a community or an organization that could be offered this special opportunity. Click here to contact us with your small community nomination.