“Light and Renewal”

utilizing instructions, he uses imagination and inspiration to build and modify items how he wants to see them. He does the same thing with LEGO car projects as well.

One of his recent accomplishments is a miniature replica of the Gordon House, the residence designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in Silverton, Oregon. Reed is currently working on a build of the Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs designed by architect Richard Neutra. He hopes to share both projects at the LEGO Expo.

Reed loves to attend local expos such as Seattle’s BrickCon, an annual convention for LEGO enthusiasts. He said attendees look forward to meeting vendors and exhibitionists, participating in activities, showcasing their work and discussing projects with fellow hobbyists.

New Art Gallery by Puget Sound Group Northwest Artists Opens at Blakely Hall

BY MADDIE COATS Highlands Council Media Editor

As springtime arrives in Issaquah Highlands, a new art gallery is adding a pop of color to the walls of Blakely Hall. Puget Sound Group Northwest Artists (PSGNWA), the oldest art group in the Northwest, will showcase artwork around the theme of “Light and Renewal” from April through June 2023.

“It’s a great time to reflect on the light of spring and the renewal it brings, both in our landscape and metaphorically,” says Caryn Vainio, PSGNWA board. “We’re excited to see how PSGNWA artists interpret this theme.”

The exhibition will focus on original 2D art from local artists with a broad range of figurative art, landscapes and more. It’s juried by landscape artist Mike Wise.

“Blakely Hall is a wonderful, open, beautifully lit space tucked away in the Issaquah Highlands, so this exhibition should be a great way to check out this beautiful area AND see some incredible art,” Vainio noted.

Stop by the hall on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to view the gallery and be sure to attend the gallery reception on Saturday, April 8, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Meet the Artists

• Ned Mueller: “Hanging In There,” oil on canvas

• Elisabetta Brogi: “Back to Childhood,” oil

• Kaye Guerin Marks: “Tumacacori Garden,” oil

• Steven Hill: “Mount Baker in Early Spring,” pastel

• Steve Jensen: “Red Porthole,” oil on wood, salvaged aluminum porthole and boat resin

• Catalina Mercado: “Brilliant Moss,” acrylic

• Barbara Benedetti Newton: “Time After Time,” oil with cold wax

• Paul Williams: “The Reading Room,” oil

Get to Know PSGNWA

In 1928, PSGNWA was founded to encourage, educate and promote a community of professional visual artists. Throughout its 95-year history, the group has produced some of the most renowned artists of the region.

Over 120 members represent PSGNWA from all over the Pacific Northwest region. The arts organization welcomes visual artists and sculptors at all levels of experience and expertise. Artists who reside in the Puget Sound region and practice visual arts such as painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture are encouraged to join the group! (Must be at least 18 years old to join.)