On the ‘Edge’ of the Art Walk

Tonight is Third Thursday, and that means Edmonds will abound with good food, great people, and even better art. There are always dozens of venues displaying the work of local artists, and the new exhibition opening at the is no exception.

Gretchen Johnston, Director of Arts at Edmonds Community College, said the display stems out of a class offered by the college's ArtsNow program.

“The class is offered in Cooperation with Artists Trust and helps equip artists with skills to achieve their career goals," Johnson said. "They learn the business side of things, marketing aspects, how to find funding. The class culminates with a presentation of work, and we offer them a group show here at the Conference Center.” 

The show is called ‘Edges’ after the name of the class, which is offered winter quarter at the school. The artists put in over 50 hours of class time. This year there are seven artists who graduated, and all of them will be showing at the Conference Center. Works range from multi-media presentations to oil and acrylic paintings, fabric work, jewelry and pottery.

The halllway walls of Edmonds Conference Center regularly serve as a gallery during the Third Thursday Art Walk. In addition, the Center hosts live music funded by a program at the college called Arts Culture and Civic Engagement. They also provide food, wine, and coffee.

According to Johnston, tonight’s entertainment will come from John Sanders, Chair of the Music Department at the college. He will be performing gypsy strings. Unlike some of the galleries and shops participating in the Art Walk, the Conference Center offers space to dance, sit and enjoy music or just hang out, which Johnston says happens a lot.

“The artwork in this show is very interesting and easy to view,” she said. “With the music and the food, it’s just a lot of fun! And of course, all the artists will be here so people can meet them, ask questions and discuss the work.”

‘Edges’ will be on view through July 8.