West Seattle, Washington
26 Thursday
Still time to go out and meet artists during the March West Seattle Art Walk!
That’s Naomi Cox, who’s featured tonight – and all month – at West Seattle Grounds (2141 California SW), where you’ll find her until 8 tonight. She describes the work she’s showing as “using primarily watercolor and pen—loose and full of color. This show is a collection of some of my favorites—from walks, on drives, in the kitchen, and around Seattle—created as a set of art prints. I love it when my paintings brighten someone’s day, show a different perspective, invite a conversation, and help people connect to each other and their surroundings.”
Always a highlight on Art Walk night is Fogue Gallery (4130 California SW; WSB sponsor), with a variety of ongoing displays. Tonight’s featured artist is RobRoy Chalmers:
Also in The Junction, we recommend a stop at Doll Parts Collective (4448 California SW) – we got there too early to photograph featured artist Katharina Pritzl – but her work is fun to see, as is some of the quirky shop’s merchandise.
See the full venue list plus a multitude of artist previews on the Art Walk website, and look for Art Walk flags/banners outside participating venues; the three receptions we’ve mentioned above are all scheduled until 8 tonight.
Young singer in the household? You have until tomorrow to sign up for Endolyne Children’s Choir in time for the spring session. Here’s the reminder sent by ECC:
Registration for Endolyne Children’s Choir’s spring session is now open. We invite children in grades K-12 to join us for our spring session, featuring “Broadway Favorites.” We have a ton of fantastic music, choreography, and fun planned for our singers! Click here to register. Registration ends on Friday, March 11th.
Spring session dates: March 15-June 7, with a concert and celebration on June 12
Rehearsal location: Parish Hall at St. John the Baptist Church: 3050 California Ave SW.
Rehearsal times:
Debut: 4:30-5:30 (for all singers in grades K-2)
Encore: 5:45-6:45 (for all singers in grades 3-5, and new ECC choristers in grade 6)
Advanced Ensemble: 7:00 – 8:30 (returning ECC choristers in grade 6, and all singers in grades 7-12)Tuition: We offer 5 tiers of tuition pricing, from full tuition to full scholarship. You will select your tuition option when registering.
Safety: We will continue to follow our successful Covid Safety Plan.
Our staff and volunteers are fully vaccinated.
Our rehearsal space is large and well-ventilated.
All singers must provide proof of Covid vaccination.
Singers will maintain a minimum 6 feet of distance when singing.
Singers must wear medical-grade 3-layer masks at all times (we always have masks available at rehearsal.)
Please forward this on to friends who might be interested. We are happy to welcome new singers at any choir level.On behalf of all of us at ECC, we look forward to seeing you on March 15.
Received today from the West Seattle Community Orchestras:
West Seattle Community Orchestras reports that after too much of this:
. . . it’s once again eager to return to this:
We invite you to join us! THERE’S STILL TIME TO REGISTER! But hurry! Some sections are filling up quickly!
In addition to our three orchestras (Debut, Concert and Symphony), we once again will offer beginning strings classes for students and adults.
Whether you’re new or a returning member, you will need to register: wscorchestras.org/register. All participants 5 and older must show proof of vaccination at the time of registration.
Auditions for NEW members are to be held Tuesday, March 15, at Fauntleroy Church. Also on that date Beginning Strings classes will resume, also at Fauntleroy Church.
By the way, this is a great bargain: Students participate for FREE; adults pay a modest fee.
We have a great session planned and hope you’ll join us!
P.S. Brownie points for anyone who can identify the music and/or the composer!
That’s some of the art by Alaina Bryan that’s on display at Locust Cider on Alki. It’s her first show, and you can meet her during a 4-10 pm reception there tomorrow (Saturday, March 5th). Here’s her story:
I’m a 24-year-old artist from West Seattle specializing in a unique art technique that I call “claynting”- that is, painting with polymer clay on glass surfaces. I invented the technique in 2019 while recovering from a traumatic brain injury. Nearly 3 years later, I am fully recovered, much thanks to my art therapy. I work now as a full-time self-employed artist while studying UX Design in online grad school. My injury has made me determined to do what I love with the time I’m given, and given me a passion for accessibility, especially in the arts & entertainment industry.
I have approximately 50 works of art, all for sale, currently being displayed at Locust Cider on Alki, including many of my original clay works. All of my works are created from secondhand or ‘upcycled’ materials, including the large polymer clay windows. Also, many of my pieces are UV fluorescent and/or glow-in-the-dark! This makes for very fun night-time viewing over a delicious glass of cider.
Locust is at 2820 Alki SW, open to all ages.
(Great Blue Heron, photographed by Tom Trulin)
Here’s what’s happening for the rest of this soggy Monday:
SCHOOL CHOICE: Today’s the last day of open enrollment for school choice in Seattle Public Schools – here’s the reminder we published last week.
OPEN D&D: Play 6:30 pm-10 pm Mondays at Meeples Games (3727 California SW).
‘MANIFEST DESTINY JESUS’: Screening of this award-winning Seattle-based documentary, presented online by Alki UCC, 7:30 pm. Discussion afterward. All welcome – registration link is in our calendar listing.
TRIVIA X 3: Here are tonight’s three options for trivia players – 7 pm at Best of Hands (35th/Webster), 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7:30 pm at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)
Sot something for our calendar? westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
(WSB file photo)
As promised when we checked in last December on historic Kenyon Hall‘s future plans, Dennis James is returning to play the Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ in accompaniment of silent movies next month. Those are two of three live in-person shows just announced by the nonprofit venue. On March 12th, he’ll play at 2 pm for three 1921 films, and then at 7:30 pm for 1922’s “Blood and Sand.” Then at 7:30 pm March 19th, Kenyon Hall will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day weekend with Magical Strings presenting songs, stories, and dances of Ireland. Tickets are $15, $10 seniors and students – request yours ASAP via email at kenyon@kenyonhall.org.
The photo and report are from Bruce:
Fritz Johnston has created a new sculpture at the “Alki” rocks sign, at SW Admiral Way and 59th Ave SW. It replaces the white-painted tree that we used to decorate for holidays.
(Short, silent trailer for ‘Monsters of the American Cinema’)
ArtsWest Playhouse (WSB sponsor) will open its next play soon – but first, you have the opportunity to watch its most-recent production without leaving home. “Monsters of the American Cinema,” by Christian St. Croix, is now available to stream whenever you want to watch it. ArtsWest describes the production – directed by and starring Lamar Legend and also starring Alexander Kilian – as “haunting and humorous.” You can support the playhouse by buying a ticket for as little as $15; they’ll throw in the popcorn (sent to your mailing address)! Start here; it’ll be available online through March 23rd.
The photos are from the Vietnamese Cultural Center (2234 SW Orchard) in West Seattle, during a recent visit by a group from the South Park Senior Center. The VCC is open for visitors on Saturdays, noon-3 pm, or by appointment for group visits like this one.
Haven’t visited the center? It’s been in operation since 2006; here’s some backstory.
Next week is mid-winter break. After that, blink, and it’s suddenly summer. So it’s time to start signing up for camp! In West Seattle, Mode Music and Performing Arts has opened registration – here’s the announcement:
MMPA Summer Camps
June 20th – August 26th
Mode Music and Performing Arts is back in full swing, with camps all summer long! Each week-long camp includes a morning and afternoon session, with a lunch break in between for those who sign up for a full day.
Summer camps will run from June 20th through August 26th. The morning camp runs from 9 AM to 12 PM and the afternoon camp runs from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
Partial and full scholarships are available, and camp spots are limited.
Learn more and register for your camps now at modemusicandperformingarts.org/camps.
You can also email education@modemusicandperformingarts.org with additional questions.
MMPA is the nonprofit sibling of Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor).
Learn something new Wednesday night at WEND Jewelry (3278 California SW). They’ve sent word there’s still room in an “Embroidery 101” class with West Seattle artist Emily Juarez: “She will introduce us to a simple embroidery stitch for beginners. You’ll use colorful thread to personalize a simple white cotton tea towel with a fun word or message. No previous experience with embroidery is necessary. All supplies are included.” The class is 6-8:30 pm tomorrow (February 16th) at the gallery, and you can sign up online right now.
That’s Seattle singer/songwriter Ariana DeBoo performing at Easy Street Records in The Junction tonight during the record-release party for Rain City Relief. Along with her solo work, you might also know her from Macklemore‘s 2016 song “Drug Dealer.” She’s one of 10 artists featured on the Rain City Relief album, one of three to play mini-sets at tonight’s party. The record is part of an ongoing campaign to raise money for musicians suffering because of pandemic disruptions. You can donate here, with the limited-edition-vinyl record available for a donation of $25+.
For a look at inspiring and charming art, go visit C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor) before month’s end! This month, C & P tells us, the coffeehouse is featuring “West Seattle artist, author, and educator Danitra Hunter (whose) beloved character, Purrdie Burrdie, teaches children about self-love and positivity.” You don’t have to be a kid to appreciate those lessons. We’ve spotlighted the artist previously – here and here. C & P (which has outdoor and indoor seating) is open until 8 pm tonight.
Support your local musicians! Here’s one way to do it – Easy Street Records in The Junction is hosting the Rain City Relief record-release party Saturday night, with performers including Beverly Crusher (above). Here’s the announcement:
Easy Street Records is hosting a release party for Rain City Relief’s vinyl compilation record at their West Seattle store on Saturday, Feb 12, 2022 starting at 5.00 PM. This limited edition one-of-a-kind collector’s vinyl album features 10 of Seattle’s best and brightest rising artists including Chong the Nomad, The Black Tones and Shaina Shepherd. Ariana DeBoo, Beverly Crusher, and All Star Opera will perform during the party. Smokey Brights will be in attendance and other artists featured on the album may also be present. The event is free and open to the public with ID and proof of vaccination.
The album was recorded as part of Rain City Relief’s effort to raise $100,000 to provide direct financial support to Seattle artists who continue to be impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Rain City Relief is produced by The Reef and Seattle Would Tour Foundation with generous support from Pearl Jam’s Vitalogy Foundation, and iconic Seattle businesses including Caffe Vita, Rudy’s, The Edgewater Hotel, Li’l Woody’s, Arvin Goods, Ethan Stowell Restaurants, The Derschang Group, Alaska Air, Georgetown Brewery, PAX®, Weedmaps, House of Cultivar, Heylo, and Moxie’s Mints.
Seattle music lovers are invited to support local artists on Rain City Relief’s website. Supporters who contribute a minimum of $25, will receive a copy of the limited edition vinyl album. The vinyl record will also be available to contributors at Easy Street Records on February 12 and starting February 14, at Sonic Boom Records, Silver Platters locations, Light in the Attic Records, and Royal Records; as well as at select locations of The Edgewater, Rudy’s, Caffe Vita, and The Reef Cannabis’ Mercantile Shop.
Saturday Schedule:
5:00-5:15 PM: Performance by RCR artist All Star Opera
5:15 PM: Welcome and update on Rain City Relief’s fundraising efforts
5:35-5:50 PM: Performance by RCR artist Ariana DeBoo
6:00 PM: Rain City Relief will hand checks to artists
6:10-6:30 PM: Performance by RCR artist Beverly Crusher
(Video by Mark Jaroslaw)
That’s Reese T, who will perform at Peel & Press (6503 California SW) Thursday night as part of Muse Fest: The Power of Women’s Voices. These mini-concerts are happening as a celebration of women musicians, during the February West Seattle Art Walk. You can read about all the musicians and venues here; all but one of the performances are set for 6 pm-7:45 pm Thursday (Intisaar is performing 7 pm-8:30 pm at John L. Scott, 4445 California SW). The performances are all free to enjoy, as are Art Walk displays and artist receptions (that lineup for Thursday is here).
(2017 Alki Art Fair from above, photographed by Long Bach Nguyen)
Many beloved spring and summer events are planning for a comeback this year. Among them, the Alki Art Fair, set for July 23-24 along the promenade at Alki Beach Park. As with all big events, planning has to start months in advance, so the Alki Art Fair is sending out the call for help now!
The Alki Art Fair is a beach-side festival that brings people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds together to celebrate local arts and music. Our goal is to promote art education and appreciation by creating opportunities for community involvement and cultural diversity through the arts.
The Alki Art Fair began under the guidance of the Alki Community Center and its advisory council in 1997. In the fall of 2011, a group of artists and other community members transformed the Alki Art Fair into a Washington State nonprofit organization. The Fair continues to be produced with the leadership and guidance of its all-volunteer Board of Directors and thanks to many active volunteers.
Seeking Volunteers & Board Members
As the Alki Art Fair ramps up for our return to the Alki Promenade this summer, we are seeking community members who are looking for a way to get involved and lend their ideas and talents to the organization and the West Seattle community.
We are currently seeking a Treasurer, Fundraising Coordinator, Volunteer Coordinator, as well as volunteers who can help with everything from marketing, outreach, and general assistance during the event. We have numerous opportunities and will help you find or craft a role that is perfect for you.
If you are interested in supporting the Alki Art Fair, please email (corrected) info@alkiartfair.org or visit alkiartfair.org/volunteer.
(Video by Mark Jaroslaw)
That’s Cami Voss, one of the musicians slated to perform at a West Seattle-wide event during this Thursday’s WS Art Walk – called Muse Fest: The Power of Women’s Voices. Nine businesses will host performers, in the three Junctions, most 6-7:45 pm. The Art of Music, which has presented live music during several Art Walks, is co-presenting this musical celebration along with local musician Sue Quigley (who’s also performing during Muse Fest). Here’s the list of who and where:
All are 6 pm-7:45 pm Thursday (February 10th) except Intisaar, who performs 7 pm-8:30 pm, and all are free. You can find out more about all the performers and venues by going here.
You might know Zoser from his busking gigs at the West Seattle Farmers’ Market … or maybe you know him as a neighbor right here on the peninsula … or in his work with Delridge-based nonprofit Totem Star. Even if you don’t know him, you’re invited to his livestreamed Double Single Release Party online tomorrow night (Friday, February 4th). Zoser will be at Metropolist in SODO, you’ll be wherever you choose to connect to the stream, starting at 6 pm Friday. Zoser has recorded two albums – Genesis in 2019 and Evolve in 2020 – and is now releasing singles “Ain’t Basic” and “It Is What It Is,” looking ahead to a new album later this year. The announcement describes Zoser as “a singer/songwriter and music bender whose music has no boundaries (… shifting) seamlessly between pop, hip-hop, soul, and folk.” The livestreamed event is free but they’re requesting that you RSVP, which you can do here.
Need a little color after this gray day? Mark Bouma from Lake Washington Physical Therapy‘s West Seattle clinic (WSB sponsor) shares that video of a new display on their walls, “Sky.” It’s work by seven artists, interpreting the title subject; see the list and descriptions here. You can admire the art at the clinic (1309 Harbor Avenue SW) until April, including during the West Seattle Art Walk (next one is February 10th). Also note that all the art is for sale!
We’ve had several recent questions about work at the former Muttley Crew space on 42nd SW just north of SW Admiral Way. Finally an answer arrived via this photo – thanks to Melissa for sending it with word that West Seattle artist Desmond Hansen is painting it! We went over to try to get info in person but were unsuccessful; today we got email confirmation that it’ll be the new home of DogCity. The business is currently in The Triangle but has to move because its site is part of the upcoming 2-building Sweeney Blocks project (which just finished going through Design Review in November). The photo shows the east side of the building; DogCity says Hansen will be painting the north side too.
(L-R, Alexander Kilian and Lamar Legend – photo by John McLellan)
Wednesday night is your first chance to see the next production at ArtsWest Playhouse (WSB sponsor), the world premiere of “Monsters of the American Cinema” by award-winning playwright Christian St. Croix. That’s your chance to see a 7:30 pm discount-ticket preview; then Thursday is the official opening night. Here’s the synopsis:
When his husband dies, Remy Washington, a Black man, finds himself both the owner of a drive-in movie theater and a caregiver to his late husband’s straight, white teenage son, Pup. United by their love of classic American monster movies, the two have developed a warm and caring familial chemistry – but their relationship fractures when Remy discovers Pup and his friends have been bullying a gay teen at his school. “Monsters of the American Cinema” is a haunting and humorous tale about fathers and sons, ghosts and monsters.
Lamar Legend stars as Remy and also directs the play. Legend is from Seattle, as is co-star Alexander Kilian, who plays Pup. The official run of “Monsters of the American Cinema” is Thursday (January 27th) through February 20th; after the preview, regular performances will be at 7:30 pm Thursdays-Saturdays and 3 pm Sundays. As with ArtsWest’s first play of the season, there will be an opportunity to see it online, too. Tickets are available online here or by phone at 206-938-0339.
Though “We’ve Battled Monsters Before” closed at ArtsWest Playhouse in The Junction (WSB sponsor) just after Christmas, you can still see it online. As reported here back in November, ArtsWest is offering this season’s plays online too, for anyone who doesn’t yet feel ready to return to in-person attendance. So a recorded performance of the musical by Justin Huertas (also a co-star) is available online through Thursday (January 20th). Ticket prices vary, from the “inclusion rate” on up. Go here to get your ticket and the viewing link. After this, ArtsWest opens the season’s second show, “Monsters of the American Cinema” by Christian St. Croix, starting with a preview performance January 26th
Deb Schwartzkopf had cause to celebrate tonight. She was in the spotlight at a show with dozens of artists exhibiting at the future location of her Rain City Clay studios. It’s at 4208 SW 100th, the longtime Arbor Heights home of Brace Point Pottery, whose owner Loren Lukens is moving out of state. Schwarzkopf and friends, including many contributing artists, gathered tonight for a reception celebrating the start of the transition, which we first told you about back in September. It’s now just a month and a half until Schwartzkopf will “get the keys” on March 1st.
She plans to keep her current studio in White Center, Rat City Studios, as a location for artists to use, but Rain City Clay will be the hub for classes, workshops, and shows – like this one, featuring many students past and present, as well as other clay artists.
If you didn’t get to the show – titled “Introductions” – tonight, you can also see it next Saturday, when Brace Point Pottery is open 10 am-5 pm. (This is the last show Lukens is hosting there before his move next month.) Meantime, Schwartzkopf is continuing to crowdfund to help with improvements and added equipment to realize her community-building vision for Rain City Clay. The grand-opening celebration is planned for April 2nd.
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