Six to See: Outdoor Adventures and Art on Whidbey and Camano Islands
Scenic beach and forested trails abound on Whidbey and Camano Islands, yet a variety of destinations pair art with the outdoors for a true taste of local culture. Coming in February, in partnership with local glass artists, Camano Island hosts the Great Northwest Glass Quest for a fun, and possibly very rewarding outdoor treasure hunt. It’s one of six ways to enjoy art in the outdoors on the islands.
Beginning February 12, a 10-day outdoor treasure hunt for hand blown glass balls takes place on Camano Island. During the Great Northwest Glass Quest local artists create hand-blown glass balls that are hidden throughout local parks, trails and businesses, to be found by “questers.”
A new 16-acre outdoor museum, Price Sculpture Forest opened Fall 2020. Discover the century-old forest and native plants, along with art hanging from trees or hidden behind foliage. Children are encouraged to wander, investigate and be immersed in nature.
The Allgire Project is an outdoor mural gallery on Washington’s Whidbey Island, offering a bright, walkable experience that connects visitors with the history and culture of the community in a colorful, meaningful way. The mural project spans 13 walls showcasing work of nine different artists at 740 Pioneer Way in the heart of downtown Oak Harbor. Linger and enjoy or take advantage of a 30-minute “selfie parking zone” for a quick visit. Learn more, donate to the movement or just enjoy @Allgireproject and allgireproject.com.
Earth Sanctuary is a privately owned, public nature retreat and sculpture park created on 72 acres of old growth forest. The latest installation, the Ley Line Sculpture, features burnt driftwood placed along power centers identified as “Ley Lines,” which provide special earth energies that have the power to alter and uplift human consciousness. Peruse the trails to find an authentic Native American Medicine Wheel, a Labyrinth, stone circles and more. With about two miles of meandering trails and spaces for quiet exploration or meditation, guests enjoy restored old-growth forest and sacred spaces.
Cloudstone Sculpture Park offers twenty-plus acres of pristine and natural Whidbey Island landscape filled with an extensive variety of amazing carved stone, cast bronze, monumental steel, and earthworks. The sculpture park is normally open to the public twice a year, but at this time the park is open only to small groups by appointment.
On Camano Island, Matzke Fine Art features “gallery in the woods” that’s home to 150 works throughout the ten-acre park-like setting. A variety of meandering trails feature creations from emerging and well-known artists, utilizing a range of mediums including bronze, stainless steel, stone, wood and glass.
Photo Credit Marissa Pederson @PostcardstoSeattle