FREE painting sessions on Land Bank Preserves are back

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

Led by Alchemy Art Center co-directors, Maria Michaelson or Glenn Hendrick, these free three-hour painting sessions will take place from 9am to 12pm every Friday in February and March. These unique events provide an opportunity for participants to connect with nature and create artworks inspired by our Islands’ landscapes. Each session will focus on a different section of Land Bank preserves on the Westside of San Juan Island.

Schedule:

• February 7, 2025: Westside Preserve | Focus: 2^nd Pullout *
• February 14, 2025: Deadman Bay Preserve | Focus: Cove/Beach *
• February 21, 2025: Westside Preserve | Focus: 3^rd Pullout *
• February 28, 2025: Westside Preserve | 3^rd Pullout/Goldenback Trail *
• March 7, 2025: Westside Preserve | Focus: 1^st Pullout *
• March 14, 2025: Limekiln Preserve | Focus: Hike from Deadman Bay pullout
• March 21, 2025: Limekiln Preserve | Focus: Bird Blind at Westside Lake
• March 28, 2025: Limekiln Preserve | Focus: Hike from Westside Lake Pullout to Haro Straight Viewpoint *

* Shauna Barrows from Island Verse Literary Collection will lead Poetry of Place warm up exercises

What to Expect:

• Guided Painting: Each session will be led by Maria Michaelson or Glenn Hendrick who will provide step-by-step guidance. Due to winter’s unpredictable weather, participants will spend 30-45 minutes walking the Preserve, compiling photos for inspiration; painting will take place at the Alchemy Dome at 1255 Wold Road.
• Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife.
• Materials: Alchemy will have some supplies on hand (acrylics and painting brushes) however, participants are encouraged to bring any materials (paper, paint, drawing supplies, easels, etc) that they are excited to work with. Materials questions can be directed to Glenn at glenn@alchemyartcenter.com
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced painters.

Additional Information:

• Registration: Space is limited to 15 participants; please register in advance to secure your spot. Email Tanja Williamson at tanjaw@sjclandbank.org or call 360-370-7655.
• What to Bring: We recommend bringing a water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.

For more information and to register, visit sjclandbank.org/events or contact Tanja Williamson at 360-370-7655.

About San Juan County Conservation Land Bank

San Juan County Conservation Land Bank, funded by a 1% real estate excise tax paid by purchasers of property at closing, acquires and preserves areas in the county that have environmental, agricultural, aesthetic, cultural, scientific, historic, scenic, or low-intensity recreational value. The Land Bank office is located at 328 Caines Street, Friday Harbor, WA 98250. For more information about San Juan County’s Land Bank, visit www.sjclandbank.org.