WELCOME TO GUEMES ISLAND ART
Celebrating art, artists, and creativity—this is what the Guemes Island Art Initiative, a program of the Guemes Island Community Center Association, is all about. With GICCA’s mission being to enrich and connect the Guemes Island community, artists and art lovers are definitely important to the community. So how exactly did this Initiative come about? The initiative
rolled out in January 2021 and in the first year grew to represent 42 artists. Additional island artists are in the wings preparing to join and increase visibility of creativity!
What are the elements of this Initiative?
GuemesIslandArt.org is the online art gallery for this creative effort. This new website connects Guemes Island visual artists with those who enjoy art, whether as an active participant or a casual observer.
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Artist Pages: each profile page is a unique description of the individual artist’s photos, personal stories, and memorable quotes related to their work. Take some time, browse, and get to know these artists from the comfort of your home. Some art is shared as a personal portfolio, some is for sale, and some are examples of what could be purchased. Please contact the artist for more information.
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Artist Directory: alphabetical listing of names, art media/styles, and contact information.
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Art Calendar: chronological listing of art activities such as classes, shows, demos, tours, summer camps, celebrations and other artsy happenings on Guemes Island. Also, any regional happenings that impact the Guemes community such as the Anacortes Arts Festival or First Friday Art Walk.
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Art Classes: “Art Happenings” offers classes and workshops… some studios offer classes and may also list them here.
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GICCA Newsletter Feature: Introduces you to upcoming events with occasional special features. Go to MyGuemes.org to be added to the Newsletter email list.
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GIA Email Art Updates: Every month or so, an email goes to a group of island artists. Sign up HERE
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Beyond Our Shores: GICCA board members are pursuing partnerships with other local arts organizations. Our first partner, Northwest Art Alliance, offered to feature Guemes Island Art as part of its “Small Communities Connection”. NWAA also produced a video featuring 7 island artists who need the island for materials or inspiration… check it out
Important Message to Guemes Island Artists
GICCA is offering island artists the opportunity to display their favorite creations on the website, whether it be painting, carving, weaving, sculpture or other art medium. No matter what your background or experience, consider sharing your personal profile and skills and become an integral part of our growing artisan community.
Who may apply?
Any artist who lives, works, or owns property on Guemes Island and feels ready to share their visual creations with the Community.
How to apply?
A short application is available on GuemesIslandArt.org and a photo upload link is provided after the initial application is received. Email gia@myguemes.org with questions.
Is there a cost?
No, it’s free! GICCA Board wishes to make this Initiative accessible, affordable, and open to all island artists.
How did this start?
GICCA Board members gathered in 2020 to discuss ways to foster community and build connections amid a global pandemic. What started with the idea that Guemes Island has a long history of encouraging and celebrating visual arts and shifted to begin tallying up the number of professional and amateur artists who lived, worked, and owned property on Guemes Island. To the amazement of many, literally dozens of artists fit the bill and with time even more are being discovered. The idea developed into an online “art gallery” as a way for island artists to display and share their passion for art.
What is happening now?
GIA now coordinates, promotes and encourage creative art in many forms! The annual Art Markets and Studio Tour now happens on the first weekend in December of each year. Art Sharing includes Open Studio Visits, Art Demos and Art Workshops.
How can I learn more or stay connected?
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Join our Art Mailing List to occasionally receive an email from GIA. Contact gia@myguemes.org
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Check out the GIA regional Art Calendar or the GICCA “Island Happenings” calendar at MyGuemes.org.
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Attend an event or offer an idea! We are listening and appreciate your thoughts.
