OLD Whidbey Life Magazine

Tag: art sale

Pigments, Perspectives, and Pandas || Pssst. Can I interest You in A Vermeer?
This weekend marks the fifth year of Forgeries@Froggwell and, in my not-so-humble opinion, it’s going to be a doozy of a show. What began as sort of a visual bón mót has grown to be a much-anticipated biannual event.

From small, quiet sketches to all-out virtuoso feats of painterly brilliance, this show has something for everyone. The exhibition features more than 30 artists, with works ranging from Ernest H. Shepard’s sketches for “The House at Pooh Corner,” to Vermeer’s “Woman in a Red Hat” and a Francis Bacon self-portrait.

From “The House at Pooh Corner” by Anne Belov after E H Shepard; pencil on paper

The question of “why” always comes up when I talk about the show. One answer is that it’s a whole lot of fun, not to mention a challenge. I can’t answer for every artist in the show, but for me, it boils down to a couple of things: I think that visual artists learn by looking rather than reading about how to do something. Trying to replicate what they see visually requires lots of trial and error, decision-making, and experimentation.

Self-portrait by Bruce Morrow after Francis Bacon; oil on canvas

One might ask, where is the challenge of copying something that another artist has done, something that already exists. I say, go ahead and try it, then get back to me about how easy you thought that was. (Hint: It’s not.) You have to try to enter into another artist’s mind: How did they mix that color? What kind of brush did they use? How did they make that line? Is that color achieved by layering or mixing? What decisions did they make to achieve that mood?

Portait of Berthe Morisot by David Maclean after Edouard Manet; Oil on canvas

For centuries, artist training was a process of apprenticeships and making master copies. You trained your eye as well as your hand to translate what you saw onto the canvas. You learned color theory and how to work with specific materials in a way that transcends those materials. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.

You won’t want to miss this year’s show. It celebrates the diversity of artistic expression as well as the varied influences that have inspired, instructed, and excited the participating artists. It may give you added insights as you view this year’s exhibition and think about each artist’s own original works.

Not to mention that Froggwell Garden is a much more convenient excursion than heading to The Louvre or The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

This year’s show will be held at Froggwell Garden, 5508 Double Bluff Road in Freeland; Friday through Sunday; August 4, 5, and 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is limited, so please carpool if possible.

All illustrations are courtesy of the artists participating in Forgeries@Froggwell 2017.

Anne Belov lives and works on Whidbey Island in an undisclosed location. Her paintings can be seen at The Rob Schouten Gallery in Langley and at The Fountainhead Gallery on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle. You can find her peculiarly political panda satire at Your Brain on Pandas, and her books at Moonraker Books in Langley or on Amazon. Feel free to follow on Twitter where she is @pandachronicle and visit The Institute for Contemporary Panda Satire on Facebook. Her latest collection of panda satire. The Panda Chronicles Book 7: Don’t Call Mee Boo Boo, has just been released

Read the other story published this week
- A Lavender Wind Wafts Over Whidbey
__________________

Enjoy more articles in the print edition of Whidbey Life Magazine, which you can purchase at local and off-island retailers or receive in the mail via subscription.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, please contact us.

Like this article? Please share it.
August 2, 2017
View and Bid on Inuit Art
BY KATE POSS
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
November 9, 2016

Thanks to a donation of First Nation limited edition prints to the Freeland Library, you can view and bid on Cape Dorset Inuit art that’s on display this month. The art depicts life and its connection to the Arctic in images of polar bears, walruses, a kayaker, and musk oxen, among others.

Cape Dorset, known as “Kinngait” in the Inuit language, is a tiny island hamlet in the recently-formed Canadian territory of Nunavut, once a part of the Northwest Territories. The indigenous Inuit, whose traceable culture and art dates as far back as 1000 B.C., learned printmaking techniques in the 1950s. A white man, James Huston, encouraged the artists to print multiple images of their drawings using stone carving, lithograph, and stencil techniques. A cooperative workshop formed, and the hamlet developed a reputation as being the “Capital of Inuit Art.”

Bannister and Margaret Farquhar (Photo courtesy of Amanda Hopkins)

Former Greenbank residents Bannister and Margaret Farquhar collected 10 signed and numbered prints by various Inuit artists who created their work between 1976 and 2003. When the Farquhar’s health deteriorated, and they relocated to Houston to be closer to family, the couple’s long-time friend and estate executor David Norton donated the prints to the Freeland Library per the Farquhar’s request.

“Panniq” and “Playful Cubs,” both stonecuts by artist Kananginak. (Photo by Don Wodjenski)

Because the bequest came with no restrictions on the prints’ use, Friends of Freeland Library chose to keep one and auction the other nine pieces as a fundraiser for a project that has not yet been specified.

“The gift was completely unexpected,” says Betsy Arand, manager of the Freeland Library. The library is not big enough to display all the pieces, so they will keep one of them, “On the Lookout,” which depicts three owls. It will become part of the permanent art collection of the Freeland Library.

“Kayaker’s Reflection,” stonecut by artist Kananginak (Photo by Kate Poss)

“Owls are associated with knowledge, and we’re always on the lookout for helping customers use the library,” says Arand. The artist of the work, Kananginak, was instrumental in forming the West Baffin Eskimo Cooperative and was a member of the Royal Canadian Academy. He was one of the original artists whose work was included in the first cataloged collection of Cape Dorset prints in 1959.

Bannister Farquhar and Norton were old friends from Texas who earned their doctorates together in rocket propulsion. Later, Bannister moved to Washington and worked as an engineer with Boeing. His wife Margaret, who earned a doctorate in biology, worked at the University of Washington. The couple moved to Whidbey Island in the 1970s, living first on the south end and later in a home they built in Greenbank. They traveled to Canada and collected art, sometimes with the Nortons.

“Protecting the Herd,” stonecut and stencil by artist Kananginak; “The Lineup,” lithograph by artist Ohotaq. (Photo by Don Wodjenski)

Norton’s wife Connie recalled Whidbey visits. “We’ve all been friends since 1964,” she says. “When Bann and Margaret found their land on Whidbey, they called it a piece of paradise. We visited them once a year. Bann loved to go crabbing with the neighbors. They were wonderful people. When they started having health problems five years ago, they asked David to act as their power of attorney and executor of the estate.”

Art lovers can purchase the prints outright at their assessed value or bid on them for a minimum of 75 percent of their assessment. The library has received several bids and so far, the favorite of patrons is the kayaker print.

To view these works, visit the Freeland library. You can purchase or bid on your favorites by 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, at which time the Friends of the Freeland Library will celebrate the end of the auction and announce the winners at a soiree. The library is located at 5495 Harbor Avenue in Freeland and is open daily.

More information
- Cape Dorset art
- Cape Dorset art archived at the Canadian Museum of History
Kate Poss worked as a library assistant at the Langley Library until last June. She was thrilled to work for three summers as a chef aboard a small Alaskan tour boat from 2008 to 2010. She was a newspaper reporter in Los Angeles for many years before moving to Whidbey Island where she likes “talking story,’” hiking, hosting salons, and writing her novel.

__________________

To read more WLM stories and blogs, CLICK HERE. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. You may link to this story. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.
November 9, 2016
Gallery Watch || For May 2016

BY KATY SHANER
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
May 4, 2016

Welcome to the May “Gallery Watch”. Enjoy the variety of art offered on Whidbey Island. “Gallery Watch” is a collaborative project between the Visitor Information Kiosk and Whidbey Life Magazine. Gallery information contributions collected by Katy Shaner from drewslist drewslist@whidbey.com and Whidbey Life Magazine www.whidbeylifemagazine.org,

“FIRST FRIDAY AT THE FARM” Greenbank Farm 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 6. 765 Wonn Road, Greenbank. Visit Rob Schouten Gallery, Artworks Gallery and Raven Rocks Gallery.

“FIRST SATURDAY ART WALK” Langley 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7. Visit Brackenwood Gallery, MUSEO, Whidbey Art Gallery, and Studio 106.

LANGLEY

DAVID PRICE – ENCAUSTICS 5 – 7 p.m. David Price’s works capture a sense of light through paint that reflect his “less is not more, less is better” approach to art and design. His minimalist paintings are created with a simple approach to composition, color and texture resulting in a space that seems to expand beyond the canvas. The gallery, edit. artdesignmercantile (next to Brackenwood Gallery on First St., Langley) features David’s encaustic works and will be open for First Saturday Artwalk on May 7. www.davidpriceartist

WHIDBEY ISLAND FINE ARTS STUDIO – DEMONSTRATION BY KATHY ANDERSON 10 a.m. Burrier Building at the Fairgrounds. The cost is $45. Kathy Anderson is a member of the Putney Painters in Vermont and a colleague and friend of Richard Schmid, with whom she paints. She will be doing a demonstration. For more on Kathy Anderson click to: http://www.kathyandersonstudio.com If you are interested in attending, please send email to: caryjur@gmail.com, we also still have a couple of spaces in the workshop. For more information contact Cary Jurriaans at WIFAS: www.whidbeyislandfas.com

BRACKENWOOD GALLERY – “THE FIGURE” 5 – 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7 is the artist reception. The history of the human figure is all but inseparable from the history of Western art. – Michael Brenson from Lascaux’s famous Paleolithic cave paintings, to Rodin, to Picasso, and beyond, artists have portrayed their visions of the human body throughout history. Visit the gallery during the month of May to see what our diverse group of artists – including Aaron Coberly, Ned Mueller, Sarah Sedwick, Carrie Whitney, Georgia Gerber, Jason Waskey, Jeff Day, Cary Jurriaans, Marc Bohne, and Pete Jordan – has to offer!

There will also be a Spotlight show on Celebrated Washington Artist Marc Bohne’s landscapes during the month of May. All shows run through the end of May. Brackenwood Gallery, 302 First St., Langley • 360-221-2978 • brackenwoodgallery@whidbey.com • www.brackenwoodgallery.com

THE WHIDBEY ART GALLERY 5 – 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7 is the artist reception. Whidbey Art Gallery is pleased to premier unique 2D and 3D art by guest artist Keith Scott, paintings by guest artist Mike Burroughs and a series of Dahlia photographs by featured member George Johnson in May.

The basis for Keith Scott’s original art uses layers of recycled automotive paint, scrounged from auto body shops. Considered hazardous waste when in the liquid form, the shops are usually glad to get rid of the paint. Built in layers, on the 3D pieces Keith adds a layer of clear urethane between layers to get the rigidity. He calls this raw product kalidium. He then carves, sands, and laminates the piece to get the finished product.

Guest artist, Mike Burroughs, who creates in both oil and watercolor, will share some of his work during May. Featured member George Johnson will be showing a new series of Dahlia photographs for the first time. Meet Keith Scott, George Johnson and members of the Whidbey Art Gallery, while you enjoy light refreshments and wander the gallery. Whidbey Art Gallery, 220 Second St., Langley • 360-221-7675 • www.whidbeyartists.com

STUDIO 106 5 – 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7 is the artist reception. Studio 106 will be hosting 4 guest artists to show their work. Please stop in and say hello to our friends Judith Van Arnam, Jean Mason, Kim Stokely-Barber and Mary Green. Studio 106 is a working art studio. Guests are welcomed for First Saturday Art Walk, by appointment, and whenever we are there working! Studio 106, 106 McLeod Alley (between Whidbey Island Bank & Star Store) • 206-679-7843

MUSEO GALLERY Artist’s reception will be 5 – 7 p.m., on Saturday, May 7. MUSEO Gallery, 215 First St., Langley • 360- 221-7737 • www.museo.cc

BAYVIEW

HIGH SCHOOL GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE ART SHOW On display through May 30. Bayview Cash Store, Goosefoot Office. What is the Youth Perspective on Climate Change? An invitation to all high school students to share thoughts, feelings, wonderings, dilemmas about climate change through a broad range of media. Prizes awarded. All submissions will be displayed at the Bayview Cash Store, 5603 Bayview Road, Langley. For more information, contact Julie Glover at: julieg@whidbey.com or Ann Linnea at: treewmn@whidbey.com • www.whidbeyearthday.org

ART FOR HORSE LOVERS! 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 6 is opening reception for Heidi LaCourse and the work of mixed media artist Janet Pheifer, 3D encaustic artist Anne Smidt, and abstract painter Mike O’Connell. Blooms Winery’s Tasting Room at the historic Bayview Corner Store. Just in time for the opening of racing season, Blooms Winery is featuring the paintings of Heidi LaCourse, equine painter. Heidi’s work shows her love of horses. She has been around horses since she was five years old and spent a summer during college working exercising thoroughbred racehorses at Longacres. She has ridden in the Washington State hunter/jumper circuit and trained grand prix show jumpers in Ireland. Having owned and trained many ex-racehorses over the years she is fascinated with the beauty of these stunning athletes. The show will run through May and June. Blooms Winery Tasting, 5603 Bayview Road, Langley • 360-331-4084 • www.bloomswinery.com/

FREELAND

FREELAND ART STUDIOS – JEFF DAY SCULPTURE AND PAINTINGS “Reflection” Istanbul and China continuing thru June 27. Artists at the Freeland Art Studios produce original works of art in stone, bronze, metals, clay, glass, mixed media, and water in motion. At the studios you will find fine art sculpture for in or outdoors, tile, clay portraiture, jewelry, leaping and swirling concepts in water, custom designs in tile – all in a working environment. If you’re curious about how art is conceived, planned and executed, stop and watch artists at work. Freeland Artist Studios, 1660 Roberta Ave., Freeland • https://freelandartstudios.com/

GREENBANK

RAVEN ROCKS GALLERY – “ROXALLANNE MEDLEY’S WHIMSICAL DELIGHTS IN CERAMIC” 5 – 7 p.m. Friday, May 6 is the opening reception. Show runs through May 31. The Gallery presents the heartwarming and wonderfully whimsical work of Roxallanne Medley, the featured artist for May. A local resident of Coupeville, her work is best described in her own words: “My ceramic work includes original, painted and hand-cut relief tiles and hand-painted ceramic serving pieces. I apply watercolor techniques to ceramic tiles, plates and platters.”

All this month the gallery will be presenting new weekly offerings of paintings, fiber arts and mixed media works from both Mary Jo Oxrieder and Windwalker Taibi. Raven Rocks Gallery is a member of The Whidbey Art Trail, a year-round self-guided tour of galleries and studios featuring the work of local and regional artists. Raven Rocks Gallery is located at Greenbank Farm, 765 Wonn Road,C-101, Greenbank. 360-222-0102 • www.ravenrocksgallery.com

ROB SCHOUTEN GALLERY – “ALONG WATER’S EDGE” WATERCOLORS BY PEGGY WOODS 5 – 7 p.m. Friday, May 6 is the artist’s reception. Show runs through May 30. Light Refreshments will be served. Rob Schouten Gallery is pleased to welcome Anacortes watercolorist Peggy Woods to her debut showing on Whidbey Island. Woods’ watercolor paintings skillfully explore the play of light on water, whether glowing with strong contrast or misty and soft, creating tranquil dramas that convey the poignancy of everyday coastal life. Her paintings are renowned for realism and detail, but her soulful connection to her subjects is what makes them come alive. Rob Schouten Gallery – a premier showcase for Whidbey Island and Northwest artists at Historic Greenbank Farm, 765 Wonn Road, Greenbank • 360-222-3070 • info@robschoutengallery.com • www.robschoutengallery.com/

ARTWORKS GALLERY – GAYLEN WHITEMAN 5 – 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 6 is the artist reception. During May Artworks Gallery will feature artist Gaylen Whiteman and her “May Madness” show. Light snacks and beverages will be served. Live music will be performed by guitarist Steve DeHaven. Other Artworks Gallery artists will be on hand to greet visitors during the reception.

Gaylen, who typically paints in a realist fashion, has recently been experimenting with abstraction and, as she says, “having a blast.” She says, “I am especially enjoying the contrast between precise and deliberate painting for realism to the pure joy and spontaneity of abstraction.” In her “May Madness” show, Gaylen will devote half of her display to favorite works in realism, and half to favorite and recent abstract art. Her art includes paintings in watercolor, acrylic, and oil. Artworks Gallery is located on Greenbank Farm, 765 Wonn Road • 360-222-3010 • www.artworkswhidbey.com

COUPEVILLE

PENN COVE GALLERY – MARK LUCERO Mark Lucero is Penn Cove Gallery’s May featured artist. Mark paints with acrylics, usually on wood panels which are carved with high-speed routers. With bold colors and uninhibited and expressive lines, he creates movement while maintaining a careful sense of balance. His compositions range from realism to fully abstract. He thinks of his artwork as both self-discovery and self-disclosure, so that many paintings originate from fundamental truths about human experience. His intention is to give joyous and lighthearted expression to some of life’s deeper truths. Mark will be at Penn Cove Gallery 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Monday, May 30, when he will discuss the methods and meanings behind his paintings. Penn Cove Gallery, 9 NW Front St., Coupeville. • 360-678-1176 • www.penncovegallery.com • www.MarkLuceroArt.com

_________________________

THE VISITOR INFORMATION KIOSK ADVERTISERS HELP US WELCOME YOU TO WHIDBEY ISLAND. PLEASE VISIT THEM WHILE YOU VISIT OUR FAIR ISLE.

WHIDBEY LIFE MAGAZINE

WHIDBEY TELECOM WiFIRE COFFEE BAR

BLOOMS WINERY

WHIDBEY ISLAND VINTNERS

HARBOR INN

WHIDBEY ISLAND WINERY

WHIDBEY ISLAND BANK

WHIDBEY PHOTO ADVENTURES

ONE SPIRIT GARDEN

________________________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

May 4, 2016
Whidbey’s Rob Schouten Gallery wins KING5 contest: ‘Best Art Gallery in Western Washington 2015’

The official King5 announcement came on a recent Friday: “Voters named Rob Schouten Gallery the Best Art Gallery in Western Washington for 2015. More than 180 other nominees competed for the title, but in the end there was only one winner. Thanks to all who voted, and congratulations to the Rob Schouten Gallery.”

“We were pleased just to be nominated again,” Rob Schouten said. “We won this contest in 2014, and were certainly up for winning it two years in a row. We let people know, and the response was wonderful.”

“Our customers and community cared enough to take the time to vote for us, and that made all the difference; we won ‘Best Art Gallery in Western Washington’ for the second year in a row! ”

Delighted owners Rob and Victory Schouten said they have the 30 Northwest artists they represent and their dedicated customers to thank for the title.
Voters left a steady stream of more than 100 glowing comments about the gallery on the contest website during the race:

“Rob Schouten’s Gallery always has original work by artists from the area. He is a wonderful host and the gallery itself is a jewel shop. You linger and linger.”

“Visiting Rob Schouten Gallery takes you into worlds of beauty: exceptionally talented artists’ works; Rob and Victory’s impeccable taste in selecting and displaying art; and regular gallery events celebrating this Whidbey treasure.”

“The content of the art has deep meaning; the owners and staff are impeccable, the art itself is beautifully made and of the highest quality; the gallery is beautiful.”

Victory Schouten extended her gratitude to the other Greenbank Farm tenants that share the location with RSG. “We are happy to be a part of Greenbank Farm with its other fine galleries, shops and cafe,” Victory said. “We hope our win as “Best Gallery in Western Washington” adds to the buzz making the Farm, and Whidbey Island itself, even more of a destination place, as it so deserves to be.”

Established at Whidbey’s Greenbank Farm in 2008, Rob Schouten Gallery and Sculpture Garden showcases top-quality painting and sculpture, as well as fine art glass, jewelry, ceramics, encaustics, woodworking, printmaking, and fiber arts created by some of the region’s finest artists.

Visit www.robschoutengallery.com for more information.

December 4, 2015
‘Uncommon Threads’ featured at Whidbey Weavers Guild’s Sale, Nov. 6 and 7

By ANNIKA LEOPOLD
Whidbey Life Magazine Guest Contributor
October 28, 2015

Imagine a big red barn filled with rainbows of color, lots of texture and wall-to-wall creative displays. That will be the Whidbey Weavers Guild’s 12^th annual “Uncommon Threads” sale at Greenbank Farm’s Red Barn 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7.

Guild members have put in hundreds of hours of work throughout the year, in sale organization and the creation of beautiful handcrafted products. This is a great opportunity to do some early holiday shopping for unique gifts. A wide range of prices ensures something special for every budget.

The annual sale attracts fiber arts enthusiasts from all over Whidbey as well as off-island. Handmade items for sale are woven, knitted, crocheted, felted and spun. Fiber art of all kinds are represented, offering hand-spun yarns, dyed spinning fibers, rugs, braided or felted jewelry, baskets, clothing, housewares and cards.

In keeping with the guild’s mission of outreach to the community, there will be demonstrations of kumihimo (a Japanese braiding technique), weaving and spinning. These artists, as well as many others, will be available throughout the sale to answer questions, provide information about their craft and offer advice.

WWG meetings are open to the public and held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Pacific Northwest Art School, 15 NW Birch Street, Coupeville. Renowned fiber artists from around the world provide presentations and workshops throughout the year. Additionally, educational outreach events are offered in the community. A variety of study groups in the guild focus on particular areas of fiber art so members can perfect their skills and learn from each other.

The guild is dedicated to keeping fiber arts alive and well in our community, for today and for generations to come.

To learn more about what the Whidbey Weavers Guild has to offer, check out www.WhidbeyWeaversGuild.org.

Annika Leopold weaves, knits and reads thrillers in Swedish.

__________________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

October 28, 2015
Inside the Studios: A Glimpse at the Whidbey Working Artists Open Studio Tour

BY ARRYN DAVIS
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
August 26, 2015

Experience the plethora of working artists Whidbey has to offer this weekend at the Whidbey Working Artist’s Open Studio Tour. From Clinton to Oak Harbor, artists will open their doors for visitors to view their workspaces, see finished and unfinished pieces and feed their artistic curiosities. With over 50 working artists participating in the tour, the only question is—who will you visit first?

Perhaps Lane Tompkins, a stone and metal sculptor working out of Freeland Art Studios… Tompkins discovered his artistic calling post-retirement, and knew immediately that it was how he wanted to spend his time. Beginning with representational sculptures of horses and camels, Tompkins soon developed an interest in the abstract. He now sculpts more organic forms, and is currently working on a series of wall sculptures from Carrara marble.

“Specter,” marble sculpture by Lane Tompkins (photo by Michael Stadler)

Interestingly, he hollows out the interior of his marbles to decrease their weight, a technique drawn from the work of Elizabeth Turk. When asked about the source of his creativity and ideas, Tompkins, a delightfully pithy and adventurous conversationalist, replied with a laugh, “There’s nothing mystical about my work. I don’t want the stone to have anything to say about it, I just want to create this form out of stone.” His studio is well worth a visit just for the discussion, let alone his sculpture.

If you prefer paintings to the three-dimensional arts, Karin Bolstad’s studio in Clinton might take your expectations of painting and throw them to the wind. Formally trained as an illustrator and graphic designer, Bolstad described herself as “more of an illustrative painter than a painterly painter.”

“The Fortune Teller, Mixed Media Acrylic, 24” X 36” by Karin Bolstad, 2015 (photo by Karin Bolstad)

In the true nature of an illustrator, she uses her medium to tell a story: her story as a woman. Bolstad said she has always painted the female figure, and uses her art to add to the feminist conversation. “Though I do art because I love it and it’s what I do, I feel like it also has a purpose. I’m telling the female story through my own stories as a woman.”

A perfect example is her Gothic Romance series, inspired by the covers of novels she read as a teen. On the cover, the female character was always portrayed running fearfully away from a haunting scene. “In mine, they’re not scared. They’re part of the scene,” she said.

Bolstad’s style is drawn in part from the Byzantine era and her studies in Greek iconography, and her subjects are a surefire conversation starter. Located at Blueschool Arts in Clinton, Bolstad’s studio is a must-see.

But what about the very material we paint on? A visit to Mary Ashton’s workspace in Freeland might reveal more than you imagined about the art of papermaking. As she wrote in her artist statement, “It is one of our great communication tools for visual and literary art, education, business, important news, as well as our inner thoughts and emotions.”

A selection of papers created by Mary Ashton (photo by Mary Ashton)

For Ashton, paper is about both the product and the process. Trained in both Western and Japanese methods, she’ll have a “Hollander beater” set up so she can demonstrate the Western papermaking process. Recently, Ashton has focused her energies on teaching papermaking methods. “Hand papermaking is kind of dying out, and there are so many fewer papermakers,” she said, “so it’s important to pass along that tradition.”

The Hollander beater Ashton will use for demonstrations during the tour (photo by Mary Ashton)

People often ask her what you can do with paper. Her response is always “Well, what do you do with paper?” Ashton hopes that visitors will come away with “a new understanding of things in our every day that are special.”

The studio tour is more than just a visit to artists’ workspaces. It’s an opportunity to start a discussion, to ask new questions and to see the art-making process for yourself. “I want people to come away with the understanding that this is a working art—a practicing art—not a given art,” said Tompkins. “You get better by doing it, and anybody can do it. ”

Experience the Whidbey Working Artists open studio tour for yourself from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 29 and 30. WWA is a proud umbrella organization of the Whidbey Island Arts Council. For more information, visit www.whidbeyworkingartists.com.

Read more about other Tour artists in this feature WLM Contributor Deb Crager here.

Image at top: “The Fortune Teller” by Karin Bolstad (photo by Karin Bolstad)

Arryn Davis is a voracious art historian and an educator at the Burke museum. Her interests include Tolstoy, Athenian Caryatids and international methods of brewing coffee.

__________________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

August 25, 2015
Whidbey Working Artists Hold ‘Summer Open Studio Tour’ Aug. 29 & 30

BY DEB CRAGER
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
August 5, 2015

Were you thinking you may have missed your opportunity last weekend to get artwork that speaks to your heart? It’s not too late!

Many different pieces will be available across Whidbey Island during the annual Whidbey Working Artists Tour at the end of this month. Spend a weekend driving scenic vistas while you check out actual studios where artists work. You’ll see everything from sculptures to oil paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramics, mixed media and more. This year, the tour has expanded to include more artists from one end of the island to the other and the peaceful island surroundings can’t help but inspire the artists and those who visit.

“I think those coming will be glad they came; there are some fabulous artists,” said Kay Parsons, Tour Coordinator. “Driving the back roads and seeing the artists in the process of doing their art is one of the best parts of the tour.”

“What I love about the tour is that we’re all working artists. We make our living doing this,” said Teresa Saia, who paints in oils and pastels. She described herself as a contemporary impressionist who uses lots of color. “I didn’t know I could draw until I was 30,” she said, adding that she started with calligraphy, moved into watercolors and then into pastels and oil painting.

A vibrant oil painting,“Emerald Eve,” by Teresa Saia (photo by the artist)

“Painting is truly my passion in life,” she said, describing her vision as she expresses the light and color around her. “I love what I do, and I’m always looking for the next thing that inspires me.”

Sculptor Lloyd Whannell shares a studio with 11 other artists and believes the tour allows visitors to see the large-scale process in his medium—stone. “You can see ongoing works and look over our studios and tools, and see the inside story of sculpting,” he said. When he first started taking art classes, he found himself trying to make items out of clay or other materials so that they looked like stone, finally realizing that he wanted to work in stone itself.

Now he sells combination pieces of stone, bronze and glass all over the Northwest and is part of an art loan program. His works are both abstract and figurative—a combination of stone, bronze, and glass. After 25 years, Whannell is quick to point out that he’s still balancing things out, that all of it is a work in progress.

“Newer Speed” by Dan Freeman (photo by the artist)

“Ever since I was a little kid, I enjoyed making stuff,” said another sculptor, Dan Freeman, who describes himself as a problem solver. “Each piece brings its own questions. If I’m working from a specific concept, I can see the end before I go after it,” he added.

Other times materials suggest something different to him, sometimes it’s just play. Freeman also tried several types of art: mixed media, printmaking, pottery, but sculpting made the most of his desire to problem solve. “I like show and tell,” said Freeman, “and curious people are my kind of people.” His favorite piece in his gallery is called “History of Modern Art, abridged.” It’s the study of all modern art in a single piece, and something he’s happy to share.

A colorful weaving, in progress, by Anne Niles Davenport (photo by the artist)

Curiosity may have also led weaver Anne Niles Davenport down her chosen artistic path. Once challenged by a friend to learn weaving, she accepted the challenge and never looked back. When asked why she does it, she responded: “Of course I love it, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. It’s so much wider and deeper than that,” she paused. “Making cloth is so compelling. To make functional, beautiful cloth strikes me as being profoundly human and is a part of a truly ancient way of life.” She said that she has never duplicated a single piece she’s done, nor does she want to—“I want to plumb all the possibilities,” she said. Recently, she produced a run of luxury throws and more practical items like a series of designer towels—one-of-a-kind pieces that will last forever and bring art into the kitchen.

According to Parsons, tour coordinator, the Artists Tour has expanded to accommodate the needs of artists within the entire geographic area of Whidbey Island, also becoming an umbrella organization of the Whidbey Island Arts Council. “We’re especially grateful for the support of the Council,” she said.

No matter what interests you in art, with more than 50 artists, you’ll find something you can’t live without. Come to the Whidbey Working Artists Summer Open Studio Tour the weekend of August 29 & 30 to see what unique piece will be yours alone.

Image at top (and below): The artist, Lloyd Whannell, in his studio (photo courtesy of Lloyd Whannell)

Deb Crager is originally from the Midwest but has lived on the island for 24 years. She wrote the book “101 Things to do on Whidbey Island: for a Day, a Weekend, or a Lifetime,” available on iPad and Kindle Fire.

The artist, Lloyd Whannell, in his studio (photo courtesy of Lloyd Whannell)

__________________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

August 5, 2015
‘Forgeries at Froggwell’ set for Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2

BY ANNE BELOV
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
July 29, 2015

You can hardly throw a rock on Whidbey Island without hitting an artist, (or, for that matter, a yoga instructor.) But while we’re well endowed with contemporary artworks, you have to travel quite a long way to enjoy great art from past centuries.

However, since 2009, the classic masterpieces come to Freeland the first weekend of every other August… in the form of, um… forgeries.

The Forgeries at Froggwell show has its roots in the love of classical painting and sculpture. The owner of Froggwell Gardens has dubbed his home The Froggwell Cultural Institute, claiming that the house and garden are themselves a bit of a forgery or—at least—an homage to English estates and their gardens.

A Barbara Hepworth sculpture. Or is it? (photo courtesy of The Froggwell Cultural Institute)

Most artists, whether self-taught or art school-educated, have made copies of masterworks as part of their training. It’s a great learning tool that helps a student artist understand there is more to painting than just depicting subject matter. Lessons about color, composition, the application of paint, and the creation of illusions with colors, shapes and values are the payoff to the copy-making artist.

The show at Froggwell had its origin in two events that occurred in 1999. The Seattle Art Museum held a show of John Singer Sargent’s work starting in late December. Looking at his painting “A Street Scene in Venice,” I remarked, “I wish I’d painted that.” I was challenged to do just that, so I did.

Shortly after that, while on a trip to Amsterdam, we admired a painting in a small gallery. The gallery owner said that there was a small problem with the painting; it was a forgery of the work of a very famous painter whose art could be found in The Rijksmuseum as well as other museums across Holland. The painting of forgeries to sell to the Germans during their occupation of Holland during World War II was a popular pastime among Dutch painters. This story was guaranteed to hook us, and the painting came to Whidbey to become the first forgery in the Froggwell Collection.

“Pollock,” etc. (photo courtesy of The Froggwell Cultural Institute)

“Forgeries at Froggwell” grew out of another show that has been hosted there since 2004, showcasing the work of a select group of painters, sculptors and printmakers on the island. After four years of doing the Froggwell Invitational, we decided to make it a biennial, but to have a different kind of show on the alternating years.

The first show, in 2009, had the theme: “paint a copy of your favorite painting”; the only requirement was that the copied artist had to be deceased. For the 2011 show, we took a rather tongue-in-cheek approach and declared that the show would commemorate the 98^th Anniversary of the 1913 Armory Show of New York (because any idiot can hold a 100^th anniversary show, but it takes a special kind of idiot to celebrate the 98^th anniversary). All the work in this show had to copy work exhibited in the original 1913 show.

We were lucky enough to be in New York two years later and see the real 100^th anniversary exhibition of the 1913 Armory Show at The New York Historical Society. About half a dozen original paintings in the show were ones that we had copied and it was inspiring to see the real thing and appreciate what a good job we had done copying them.

The house at Froggwell Garden (photo courtesy of The Froggwell Cultural Institute)

Our 2013 “Forgery” theme was “From the School of…” and the participating artists created work “in the style of…” rather than creating exact copies. They were also encouraged to invent stories about these inauthentic works to explain their rather dubious provenance. I created an excerpt from Sargent’s journal to explain the painting of Madame ‘P.

This year’s show returns to our wide-open favorite painting theme, with over 25 artists participating. Many of the artists have been in the show before, but a number of them are new to this year’s show. Among the artists to be forged are John Singer Sargent, Jacque Louis David, J.M.W. Turner, Frida Kahlo, Mark Rothko, Edward Hopper, Louise Nevelson and many more.

So if a trip to the Tate Britain or The Metropolitan Museum is not in your budget this year, Froggwell Garden is just around the corner.

All works in the show are for sale, so if you’ve always had a hankering for a John Singer Sargent or Thomas Moran but don’t have a spare million in your bank account, you might find the painting of your dreams this weekend.

Froggwell Garden is located at 5508 Double Bluff Rd. in Freeland on Whidbey Island. The show will be open from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m. Friday, July 31 through Sunday, Aug. 2.

For more information about the artists, the show, and driving directions, visit http://froggwell.wordpress.com or email froggwellbiennale@gmail.com.

Image at top: J L David’s “Death of Marat”? Or is it? (photo courtesy of The Froggwell Cultural Institute)

Anne Belov is a painter, printmaker, cartoonist, and notorious forger living on Whidbey Island. When not channeling the spirit of John Singer Sargent, she channels her own muse, writes for Whidbey Life Magazine, and encourages pandas to behave badly. You can see her work at The Rob Schouten Gallery and her cartoons on The Panda Chronicles. You will find her this week-end at Froggwell.

__________________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

July 29, 2015
Diane Divelbess Is Throwing a Party to Celebrate 80—Artfully

BY MARTHA McCARTNEY
Whidbey Life Magazine contributor
June 17, 2015

I had a conversation with Diane Divelbess that wound up being about trajectory, intersecting lines, surrealism and how one person’s belief system can come into conflict with another person’s. Our conversation was meant to be about art and, I suppose—at its essence—it was.

Diane Divelbess is an artist who has truly made her life art. She’s surrounded herself with artwork collected from her travels around the globe. And while, at first glance, this collection may appear disparate there is, at its core, a common element—a curiosity about the way different cultures see the world and the shared spirituality of people and story.

Divelbess standing in front of NIGHT SERIES XVIII, her 10-foot-long graphite drawing on rag paper, which hangs in the stairwell of the home she shares with spouse Grethe Cammermeyer. (photo by Martha McCartney)

Divelbess was born in Phoenix, Arizona and attended college in California, where she earned a BA Fine Arts degree from Scripps College and a Masters of Fine Arts from Claremont Graduate University. She studied printmaking and silkscreen privately with Nick Dematties and Jack Duganne. She is Professor of Art Emerita with California State University, Pomona, where she taught for 27 years. She has exhibited on the West Coast from California to Washington. Divelbess and her spouse, Grethe Cammermeyer, now live on a beautiful property with a stunning view of Saratoga Passage near Langley, on Whidbey Island.

FORMAL THOUGHT REVISITED – IV graphite and ink on paper, 9” x 11 ½” (Image courtesy of the artist)

On the surface of things, much of Divelbess’ work is deceptively simple. And then there is the closer inspection. From landscape paintings to pencil drawings, one begins to see the mind of the artist exploring the spatiality of surfaces, the intersection of planes and the perspective of distances, which brings the viewer to question where they are in time and how, and if, they are grounded. Some of the current work, which—as ever—is rooted in precision, transcends the pencil marks and leaves the viewer twisting in space like a mobile that shifts in the wind—puzzling out what is foreground and what is background. The relationship and tension between shapes makes the bond seem unbreakable.

EFFUSIVE crayon on paper, 6-1/4” x 6-7/8” (Image courtesy of the artist)

The couple’s house, which is now essentially a gallery, is filled with work that intrigues her in a similar way as her own artwork, and even the arrangement of art on the walls is significant. The space between works takes on new importance—the relationship between paintings seems to hold the wall together. This collection of art is, in many ways, a testament to precision, but then there is a surprise element that reveals an irreverent sense of humor.

ENAMEL MUG WITH CLOSED HANDLE acrylic on rag paper, 12” x 9” (Image courtesy of the artist)

The “gallery” contains massive collections of what Divelbess calls the “kitschiest” stuff—from Pez witches to Frida on a rubber eraser and the Black Madonna in a walnut shell. Divelbess is a great collector of folk and tribal art and has masks adorning the walls in juxtaposition to her serene renditions of a teacup. It’s not a random collection nor is it chaotic; it’s highly organized and linear.

ANDEE’S FRIENDS acrylic on canvas, 30” x 24” (Image courtesy of the artist)

Divelbess paints, draws with pencil and crayon and utilizes various printmaking techniques, and—in true “teacherly” fashion—she patiently explained all the methods of each system. Her daily practice lines shelves in her studio—sketchbooks neatly arranged, holding a drawing from most every day going back decades. “Art begets art,” she said. Her philosophy is evident in her surroundings and in her dedication to her vision.

AFRICA ON OUR KITCHEN TABLE acrylic on canvas, 36” x 12” (Image courtesy of the artist)-

In celebration of Diane Divelbess’ 80^th birthday and to showcase her art from this last decade, Divelbess and Cammermeyer are opening their home for an exhibition of current and past work, with all pieces for sale. They invite the public to attend a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 20 at their home on 4632 Tompkins Road in Langley. The exhibit will be open for public viewing from 1 to 5 p.m. every day—Wednesday, June 24 to Saturday June 27—with a closing reception from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 28.

For more information about the art of Diane Divelbess and her work, click here or call 360-221-6141 for more information about the exhibition.

Martha is a poet, photographer, mixed-media artist, persistent gardener, candle-maker and semi-retired knife sharpener. She currently lives in historic Coupeville with her dog, the ever-fabulous Lillie Savage.

__________________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

June 17, 2015
Gallery Watch || Friday, April 3 – Sunday, April 5

BY KATY SHANER
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
April 1, 2015

It is the first weekend of the month and that means “Gallery Watch”!

Art abounds on Whidbey when galleries and studios stay open late to welcome visitors and islanders to their new monthly shows.

Meet the artists at the Opening Receptions.

“Gallery Watch” is a collaborative arts guide between the Visitor Information Kiosk and Whidbey Life Magazine and will be produced the first weekend of the month only.

Got an event you’d like to see on “Gallery Watch”? Make sure to put it on the Whidbey Life Magazine Calendar https://www.whidbeylifemagazine.org/submit-your-event/.

FRIDAY, APRIL 3

“FIRST FRIDAY”
Greenbank Farm

ARTWORKS GALLERY features Artist Gaylen Whiteman during April. A First Friday reception will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Light snacks and beverages will be served. Guitarist Quinn Fitzpatrick will provide live music. Other Artworks Gallery artists will be on hand to greet visitors during the reception.

Whiteman has been drawing and painting since childhood. Since retiring from corporate life in 2007, she has been enjoying her art full time and is the current President of the Artists of South Whidbey. Artworks Gallery is located on Greenbank Farm. http://www.artworkswhidbey.com (360) 222-3010 Gallery Hours Weekdays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Weekends 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Tuesday.

ROB SCHOUTEN GALLERY presents “The Department of Whimzy” with the art of David Ossman and Stephen Roxborough. 5 to 8 p.m. Collages, dioramas and photographs of David Ossman and Stephen Roxborough.

In recognition of April Poetry Month, Ossman, Roxborough and literary cohort John Burgess, poets all, will also hold a free poetry reading at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16. Everyone is welcome to come hear these masters of the spoken word read selected poems, while enjoying an evening of whimsical fantasy. Fine art, good food, lively conversation and the exquisite natural beauty of this special place. April gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends. Tuesdays by appointment only. Rob Schouten Gallery 765 Wonn Road, #C-103 Greenbank (360) 222-3070 http://www.robschoutengallery.com.

RAVEN ROCKS GALLERY presents: Sheep & Shards: Hand Woven Tapestry & Stained Glass Mosaics April 1 through April 30. Opening Reception 5 – 8 p.m. on Friday, April 3. Weaving and mosaics are two ancient art forms, both constantly evolving, yet always maintaining elements of its origins. April at Raven Rocks Gallery brings contemporary interpretations of these forms, each piece expressing an emotion or experience of the artist. Windwalker Taibi is featuring his latest tapestries, “nonconformity” and “Soul’s Peace,” with accompanying statements explaining his motivation for creating the work. Sandy and Carl Bryant have quickly become two of the most acclaimed stained glass mosaic artists of the Pacific Northwest. Raven Rocks Gallery, Greenbank Farm 765 Wonn Road C-101, (360) 222-0102 www.ravenrocksgallery.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 4

“FIRST SATURDAY ARTWALK”
Langley

BRACKENWOOD GALLERY “Visions of Tibet” Artist Mingyang Li. Since 2005 Mingyang has taken pictures of different manifestations of Buddhist life and practices in Eastern Tibet. Color images of the high grasslands, vast expanses of sky and green rolling mountains capture the astounding beauty of eastern Tibet. Mingyang’s black and white photos of smiling children and indigenous people surviving on the edge of this challenging environment remind us that there are still places that remain somewhat untouched by modern forces. Artist reception from 5 to 7 p.m. during Langley’s “First Saturday Artwalk. The exhibit will be up until April 26. 302 First Street Langley. (360) 221-2978, brackenwoodgallery@whidbey.com, www.brackenwoodgallery.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Monday.

THE POPPYBANK GALLERY presents CONVERGENCE: Images from a Series by Harry von Stark. Show runs through May 1. The Whidbey Island Photographer’s series uses images with colours extracted from them for a total graphic design that is not totally photographically intrinsic, stretching both the image and the viewer’s imagination. 5 to 7 p.m. The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. 107-B First St. Langley, (360) 221-4878 info@poppybankgallery.com, http://www.poppybankgallery.com.

MUSEO presents the annual GARDEN SHOW. Artists, inspired by gardens and Springtime, will exhibit new works. The show begins with an artists’ reception on Saturday, April 4. During the reception Spoiled Dog Winery will be pouring their boutique wines. “Extraordinary Wines from the Heart of Puget Sound” The exhibit will continue through April 26. 215 First Street, Langley, (360) 221-7737 www.museo.cc

STUDIO 106 The artists at Studio 106 are in full swing and have new works to show you. Barb Barry is continuing with her ever-popular Whidbey Animal Series. Faye Castle’s captivating works depict the light, the fog, the atmosphere. Phyllis Ray enjoys painting the bricks and mortar of Langley scenes, both exterior and interior. Come see where art is made. 106 McLeod Alley (between Whidbey Island Bank & Star Store), (206) 679-7843 www.phyllisray.blogspot.com/.

EDIT presents WORKS IN ENCAUSTIC by David Price Located next to Brackenwood Gallery in Langley 306 First Street, #101 (360) 221-7909 www.editwhidbey.com

WHIDBEY ART GALLERY The Gallery shows works of over 35 local artists. Join us in April for GARDEN DELIGHTS. This exhibit will run through the end of April. www.whidbeyartists.com. Whidbey Art Gallery, 220 Second St., Langley, (360) 221-7675.

Freeland

UUCWI GALLERY OF ART presents Viva Cuba Libre, a unique collection of photos recently taken in Cuba by Whidbey photographer Nancy Duncan, reflecting textures and flavors of the country that will likely disappear now that U.S sanctions are being lifted. Whidbey fiber artist Molly Petersons ignites an exciting exhibit with her complex, colorful knit & hand-woven scarves & shawls. UUCWI, 20103 State Route 525 (approximately one mile north of Freeland on the west side of the highway) www.uucwi.org/.

Bayview Corner

BLOOMS TASTE FOR WINES The annual Mother Earth Art Show has opened, with paintings by Sharon Tryon and Anna Davis, photography by Elizabeth Atly, and pottery and shell art by Carol Rhodes. The show runs to April 27. Blooms Winery’s tasting room is at the Bayview Corner Cash Store, 5603 Bayview Rd. Langley. Available for private parties too! Open Thursday noon-5 p.m., Friday noon to 8 p.m., Saturday 11am to 6 p.m., Sunday noon to 6 p.m. and Monday noon to 5 p.m. 360-321-0515 www.bloomswinery.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 4 and
SUNDAY, APRIL 5

Coupeville

WHIDBEY ALLIED ARTISTS ART SHOW & SALE from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 4 and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 5 at the Recreational Hall in Coupeville located at Coveland and Alexander Street. Over twenty artists from Clinton to Oak Harbor will show a wide variety of two- and three-dimensional art. We will be displaying art from Whidbey artists from all over the island with a wide variety of mediums and price ranges to fit every budget. We are partnering with Gifts From The Heart, a Central Whidbey Organization that provides food & financial assistance to residents in need. We will have a collection box for nonperishable food donations or monetary contributions. While you are here, check out the opening day of the Coupeville Farmer’s Market! WhidbeyArtists@gmail.com FREE.

PENN COVE GALLERY Featured Artist in April is oil painter Rainy Lindell, a self-taught artist who loves painting landscapes. She finds that oils give her the rich warm dark colors that make a painting glow as well as the vibrant bright colors that add the zing. The flowers in a breeze, the warmth of the sunset or the yellow trees in autumn all move her to capture this moment in time. Penn Cove Gallery offers collectable, giftable and wearable art from 27 local artists. The gallery is located in the heart of the Coupeville Historic Waterfront. OPEN seven days a week 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and located at 9 NW Front Street, Coupeville, 360-678-1176, www.penncovegallery.com/.

PENN COVE POTTERY Located in the old “San de Fuca grocery store on Hwy. 20, Penn Cove Pottery is a working studio as well as a gallery. Potter and gallery owner Steve Eelkema creates “finely crafted pottery for everyday use.” In addition to Eelkema’s teapots, wide-mouth jars, and bowls, the gallery features the pottery, glass art and wall art from other Pacific Northwest artists. Lovely new fused glass pieces by glass artist Ebba Krarup on display. Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 26184 State Route 20, Coupeville, www.penncovepottery.com/wordPress/, 360-678-6464.

Oak Harbor

GARRY OAK GALLERY An Artist-owned Gallery. Guest artists: Mary Alice Sterling, Woven Baskets and Larry Mason, Water color to June 30. With a dedicated group of more than 25 established and emerging artists, Garry Oak brings new and original works of art on display to the delight of both locals and visitors. As one of many Whidbey Island art galleries, Garry Oak Gallery provides a unique balance of both high-end fine art as well as a generous supply of easily affordable art work as well. Note cards that feature artists’ work are available. At least one of the member artists is always in the gallery. 830 SE Pioneer Way, Oak Harbor, (360) 240-0222. Open Daily 10:30 a.m.to 5:30 p.m. www.garryoakgallery.com/artists.html.

_________________

THE VISITOR INFORMATION KIOSK ADVERTISERS HELP US WELCOME YOU TO WHIDBEY ISLAND. PLEASE VISIT THEM WHILE YOU VISIT OUR FAIR ISLE.

WHIDBEY LIFE MAGAZINE

WHIDBEY TELECOM WiFIRE COFFEE BAR

BLOOMS WINERY

WHIDBEY ISLAND VINTNERS

HARBOR INN

WHIDBEY ISLAND WINERY

WHIDBEY ISLAND BANK

The Vistor Information Kiosk is funded by the Greater Freeland Area and Langley Chambers of Commerce and What’s Happening is prepared by Katy Shaner, Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, contact Katy at ktshaner@whidbey.com.

________________

Got an event you’d like to see in Gallery Watch or What’s Happening? Make sure to put it on the Whidbey Life Magazine Calendar https://www.whidbeylifemagazine.org/submit-your-event/.

Since 2008, the Visitor Kiosk has welcomed over 22,000 visitors to Whidbey. The island offers a wealth of activities, places to stay, eateries, shopping and an abundance of the natural environment to enjoy and appreciate. Welcome and enjoy your visit. Do come back.

Event contributions from Katy Shaner, Whidbey Life Magazine www.whidbeylifemagazine.org, and Drewslist drewslist@whidbey.com.

_______________

CLICK HERE to read more WLM stories and blogs. Have a great story idea? Let us know at info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

WLM stories and blogs are copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Linking is permitted. To request permission to use or reprint content from this site, email info@whidbeylifemagazine.org.

April 1, 2015