Lasher Gallery Art Show Opens on July 8 with Nature-Inspired Pieces
Art takes on all forms at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts (WICA), where the organization's Lasher Gallery is set to open with an inspired July and August show featuring works by three Whidbey Island artists. The show—which celebrates natural elements—brings to viewers the whimsical watercolor work by Cheryl Weisz, the larger-than-life crochet wall hangings by Anne Ferry Brennan, and the functional and sculptural pottery by Sasha Polonko. Opening on July 8 with an art reception at 5:00 PM, where complimentary wine, cheese, and crackers will be served until 6:30 PM, the public is invited to come experience for themselves the inspired creations throughout the Lasher Gallery. The common theme is the celebration of natural elements, whether that is depicting them on canvas, through ceramics, or in crochet artistry.
"The Lasher Gallery is a space for artists to share with the community the work that inspires them," said Lasher Gallery Manager Allyson Meyer. "As a community art space, we welcome new and established artists to push the boundaries of what art means to them, and we encourage new voices to share with our patrons the beauty and reflective nature of art in all forms. We're thrilled to welcome these three talented artists to WICA with an inspired show that really celebrates nature and the natural world in a multitude of ways."
"My subjects are not chosen arbitrarily; rather, they are selected with great intention, guided by the whispers of my Soul," said Weisz. "My creations are an authentic reflection of my innermost self, a testament to the profound connection between art and spirit…some in great detail, some in charming humor and with a vibrancy of colors that are soothing and peaceful. My intention is always, all ways, the very essence of beauty and fun."
Weisz, who is showing more than 10 of her pieces, paints with watercolors on canvas, rather than paper, depicting subjects from Grizzly 399 and a small family of Quail to the Langley Marina and serene lake scenes.
Also featured in the gallery are the vibrant crochet works by Ferry Brennan, who weaves together small, multi-colored pieces of embroidery thread into large art installations that are both cheerful and reflective.
"I started playing with a tiny crochet and embroidery thread hoping to make little things that don't take much space," she admitted. "I might have gotten a bit carried away. Now, I have large, stuffed pieces that I would like to use as building material; a replacement for insulation and sheetrock for walls and ceilings!"
Weisz and Ferry Brennan are joined by Oak Harbor-based ceramics artist Polonko, whose practice spans both functional pottery and sculpture.
Working primarily with atmospheric firing processes, including wood, soda, and salt firing, she is interested in the relationship between form, material, and process. Her work often incorporates locally sourced clays and slips, allowing place to become part of the finished object. Rather than adhering to a single aesthetic, Polonko’s practice is driven by curiosity and experimentation, exploring how different forms, surfaces, and firing methods can work together to create objects that are both visually compelling and deeply rooted in the ceramic process.
The art will be displayed in the Lasher Gallery through August and the public is invited to see the artwork during normal business hours or an hour before any show. The July 8 art opening is free and open to the public and visitors are encouraged to witness for themselves this inspired artistic expression. To learn more about WICA and the Lasher Gallery, visit WICAonline.org/lashergallery.