Three weeks to the day after a devastating fire, the Orcas Artworks and James Hardman Gallery are in a new, temporary location in Eastsound.

“We encourage everyone to go by and see the amazing job they have done in turning small rooms into beautiful spaces,” say members of the Olga Strawberry Council, which owns the historic building in Olga where the Artworks has been since 1981.

The 45 artists in the co-op now have wares in a storefront on 217 Main Street across from the Episcopal Church. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The first sale on opening day was four paintings by  Janice Mattox purchased by Margaret Ceres.

The co-op signed its new lease just two days after the July 19 fire, which is considered suspicious and is under investigation.

“It (the transition) has been demanding and pushed us all the way to the edge,” said April Pollock, one of the managers.

Added Tina Brown, also a manager: “We are optimistic about being in town and in our temporary space.”

Back in Olga, the Strawberry Council is hard at work on the burned building, which was home to the Artworks, James Hardman Gallery and Cafe Olga.

The board is completing preliminary actions regarding construction, insurance, codes, historical issues and other details so they can move ahead with demolition, where necessary, and start restoring the building.

“Donations to assist the tenants and building restoration efforts have been, and continue to be, gratefully received and appreciated,” says the board. “Our goal is to have the site buzzing with activity very soon.”