Submitted by Island Thyme.

If you have spent any time wandering around Eastsound lately, you have probably noticed that Island Thyme and Crow Valley Shop and Gallery is open for business in the 296 Main Street location formerly known as Crow Valley Gallery.

For the last two decades, Eliza and Chris Morris, owners of Island Thyme Bodycare, have been developing their soap and skin care line, and connecting with customers at local stores and farmers markets. A core value of the business has always been a dedication to all things hand-made. So when the couple’s friend Wendy Shinstine began conversations about selling her gallery a few years ago, a seed was planted. It was this winter that the longtime dream of creating a more permanent presence, in the heart of Eastsound, came true. Crow Valley Pottery was one of Island Thyme’s original wholesale accounts back in the late 1990s. Thus the marriage to the Crow Valley Gallery was a natural transition.

For their first official art opening in the gallery, Eliza and Chris are thrilled to be featuring the work of local artist Susan Mustard.

The show will open on Aug. 1. Around 40 artworks will be in this show, representing 18 months of work. There will be a celebration and opening reception with the artist on Aug. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. Here are some words from Mustard about her upcoming show and her work in general.

“Time and place matter. In my 70th decade, I am aware of how quickly time/life flies by. Perhaps in defiance but also celebration, I enjoy catching a dazzling or significant moment. Stopping time. It is exhilarating to do so. And the time that I am stopping is this time on Orcas. I find this island and people endlessly fascinating. The soft light of Orcas allows intense color. So much to celebrate. Sometimes I dance in my studio.”