Submitted by Art for Orcas Kids

To celebrate our island youth, a six-week student art exhibit is being hosted at the Orcas Center from April 14-May 31, 2023. The show features art from Kindergarten through 8th grade A*OK classes as well as incredible pieces from the Orcas Island High School students.

We hope to see you at the opening and artist reception – Friday, April 14 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m in the Lobby Gallery & Madrona Room at the Orcas Center. Orcas Island High School art students will be giving brief talks about their work and processes.

A*OK art projects this year include student self portraits (some inspired by Frida Kahlo), Alma Thomas abstract pieces, beautiful Amate animal paintings, Charles McGee inspired paper sculptures, Georgia O’Keeffe poppy and bone projects, Chinese new year lanterns, Gee’s Bend quilt collages, penguins, snowy owls, Dia de Los Muertos skulls, plus Alebrije inspired creature sculptures, masks, and many more.

Since 2014, A*OK (Art for Orcas Kids), has operated as a program under the umbrella of OIEF (Orcas Island Education Foundation) and partners with the Orcas Island School District. The District recognizes art as a state mandated core subject and supports A*OK by providing Certified Staff alongside our talented teaching artists to work with the public elementary and middle school classes. Our teaching artists inspire students and help them bring the visual arts to life through interesting and creative art projects.

A*OK receives funding from OICF (Orcas Island Community Foundation) and ArtsWA (Washington State Arts Commission), as well as from fundraising events and private donations.

Please email us with any questions aokartfororcaskids@gmail.com.