The art and historical scene of the northwest Washington islands speak of an area shaped by its industrial history and its beautiful scenery. Here are some of our favorite galleries and museums to see in the San Juan Islands and Orcas Islands
Galleries to See in the San Juan Islands and Orcas Islands
The San Juan Islands Museum of Art (SJIMA) is the center of art life on the islands, supporting a rotation of local artists while funding the arts education of the San Juan school district. Starting June 9, the museum will have two new exhibits. The first will be Looking into Kabul by James Longly, which takes an intimate look at Afghanistan’s capital with documentary-style film, panoramics, and portraits. Also, starting June 9th, the works of Henry Jackson-Spieker will be on display. Jackson-Spieker is a multidisciplinary artist who combines glass, bronze, steel, wood, and fiber in hanging sculptures.
Orca Island Artworks hails as one of the oldest co-op galleries in the country, featuring fine arts and arts and crafts in pottery, sculpture, jewelry, glass, wood, paintings, prints, wearable art, fiber and more. Those wanting to witness fine glass art on the island can visit the Waterworks Gallery, featuring paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. For sculptures, the San Juan Islands Sculpture Park features over 150 unique sculptures — perfect for a nice walk in the park.
Museums to See in the San Juan Islands and Orcas Islands
The San Juan Historical Museum features exhibits that explore the island during the growing industrial changes in the area. Exhibits include a tour of the four industries that shaped the island — fishing, farming, quarrying & processing. Visitors can tour many historic buildings, including a 19th-century jail, milkhouse, and farmhouse, to name a few.
The Orcas Island Historical Museum features historical maps, photographs, and paper documents. Their exhibits include a collection of over 120 photos of Eastsound, noting the changes over the years. Visitors can also tour the historical Crow Valley School, which reopens on Memorial Day weekend.
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For nearly 30 years, Art Work Fine Art Services has served as the trusted logistics partner to some of America’s most highly-regarded museums, galleries, collectors, and artists. We specialize in expert and custom solutions for domestic and international shipping, warehousing, and preservation of artwork.
Our team is made up of passionate experts in many mediums, including design, painting, printmaking, carpentry, photography, and sculpture. Art Work FAS offers services in Portland and Seattle, in addition to California’s Bay Area and Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, New York City, and across the Rocky Mountains.
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