Paint Your Heart Out
Story & Photography by Nia Martin
Located off the beaten track of North Main Street leading into downtown Coupeville is a hidden gem drawing visitors from across the country—the Pacific Northwest Art School. Founded in 1986, this small space provides multiple workshops in fiber arts, painting, photography, and mixed media every year. “It’s all about building community, finding some touchstone that brings people together, whether they appreciate art, whether they like to create art, or whether they do both,” said the art school’s Executive Director Lisa Bernhardt, who started as a volunteer nearly two decades ago. “It’s a great way to connect people to start conversations.”
One such example is the annual Whidbey Plein Air Paint Out event, which began in the mid-2000s. For four days in August, between 60 to 85 registered participants of all skill levels station themselves around Whidbey Island to paint its unique and spectacular scenery. Included are demonstrations by professional painters and special dinners held for the artists. The fifth day culminates in a celebration fundraiser—the Gala Evening and Awards event.
“Plein air painting is outdoors, in the field, painting in the available light like the Impressionists did,” said Bernhardt. Come rain or shine, the painters—from Whidbey and beyond—produce paintings, which are displayed and available for sale at the gala and are eligible to receive an award from the event’s juror. The gala is also an opportunity for the public to interact with the artists and learn more about their work. The sixth and
