Although we’re living this vagabond-ish life, Mr. Forager & I are always thinking about places to put down roots.  One of the wants on our list is an artsy community– one that supports and encourages music, theatre, and of course, the visual arts.  The small town of Port Townsend ranks high for us because it ticks off each of those and then some.  And with the opening of Simon Mace Gallery, PT is heading in the right direction for this Artsy.

A traditional white-wall gallery, Simon Mace offers up a variety of emerging and established artists from the Northwest and beyond.  While the gallery sports that ubiquitous clean look, the feeling inside is warm and cozy.  The beautifully worn wood floors and friendly staff help, but I think it stems most from the roster of artists the gallery has gathered.

There is definitely a personality and point of view behind the gallery artists– work full of spirit, story, and humor– and it makes for a homey, non-intimidating gallery experience.  The show up during our visit, Carnival, featured the work of painter Alison O’Donoghue and sculptor Sara Swink ( both pictured below ), and painter Frank Renlie.  O’Donoghue’s work draws you in, your eyes bouncing with excitement as you try to take in every little thing happening in each canvas.  Swink’s cheeky sculptures and Renlie’s joyful paintings give enjoyable little pauses amongst the controlled chaos of O’Donoghue’s work.

Alas, the show has come down now, as the gallery preps for its next opening this Thursday, Wax On, Wax Off, showcasing the work of Port Townsend painter Jeane Meyers and Portland sculptor Lisa Kaser.  Wax On, Wax Off promises to deliver yet another mix of artwork filled with charisma and charm.  While the bulk of the gallery space is exhibition focused, a piece of each represented artist’s work is always up in the small back-room space and the staff will more than happily help you peruse more work in the racks.

 

We may be heading back up PT way next weekend and if we do, I’ll check in again at Simon Mace to see the new show.  You can bet it will now be on my must-do list ( along with thai food at Banana Leaf! ) for each visit to our favorite seaport town.  Hope it will be on your Port Townsend list now, too!

If you’d like to learn more about Simon Mace Gallery and its artists, please visit their website and follow them on Facebook.