Field Hall and the North Olympic Watercolorists (NOW) were thrilled to welcome a great crowd of arts lovers for the opening reception for our latest Port Angeles gallery show, “Watercolor: From Studio to Gallery,” on August 13th. This special event marked the beginning of an immersive exhibition that celebrates the artistry and creativity of our local watercolorists, while also honoring one of our cherished supporters, Pat Donlin.
Above: The Port Angeles High School drumline welcomes golfers each year to the Swinging FORE the Arts tournament. All photos in this blog were taken during our 4th annual event by Nora Pitaro.
As part of the exhibit opening, guests were treated to a panel discussion where several featured artists shared their personal journeys from the initial spark of an idea to the final brushstroke on canvas. This unique glimpse into the creative process helped to showcase the diverse styles, techniques, and inspirations that define the watercolor medium.
The exhibit offers visitors a chance to experience watercolor art in a whole new light, featuring studio vignettes that bring the artists’ workspaces to life. Whether you’re an artist yourself, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of watercolor, this exhibit invites you to step inside the creative process and see how each piece transforms from concept to gallery-ready artwork.
The exhibition features the works of several talented NOW members, including Kristi Kaiser, Mary Hughes, Shirley Rudolf, Marilyn Hiestand, Janet Flatley, Melissa Doyel, Katie Carlson, Annette Clem, Karen Lavender Peterson, Dee Margeson, Lyn Conlan, Beverly Beighle, Suzanne Rescigna, Georgianna Seko, Kristin Warner, Barb Diekfuss, Shing Ledgerwood, Connie Drysdale, Shannon Goose, and Betsy Robins.
“Watercolor is exciting, spontaneous, and luminous,” said Kristi Kaiser, artist and NOW representative. “Come see for yourself. We welcome all watercolorists to come paint with us.”
The exhibit also grants us the opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of Pat Donlin. Pat was a talented local watercolor artist and one of Field Hall’s founding donors. She played a pivotal role in making Field Hall a reality through her early and generous support, earning her the affectionate title of “Field Hall Angel.” Her contributions went beyond financial support; Pat left an indelible mark on our community with her creativity, passion, and compassion.
The Pat Donlin Lobby, where the opening reception was held, stands as a testament to her impact. It’s fitting that her own watercolor works are among those featured in the show, allowing us to honor her artistic spirit and her unwavering commitment to the arts.
Pat believed deeply in the power of art to connect, inspire, and heal—a belief that continues to guide us in our mission today.
“Art is the legacy that we leave behind,” said Kayla Oakes, Director of Education & Artistic Engagement at Field Hall.
“Watercolor: From Studio to Gallery” will be on display through October 26th at the Field Hall Gallery. Admission is free, and donations are greatly appreciated.
The gallery is open from 10 AM to 2 PM, Thursdays through Saturdays, and for two hours prior to most performances.
Special hours include 5 PM to 8 PM for Second Saturday Art Walks (August 10th and September 14th) and during other events at Field Hall.
Private group tours are available; email boxoffice@fieldhallevents.org
WE INVITE YOU: ART IS OUR LEGACY
Pat Donlin’s early support of Field Arts & Events Hall ensured that generations of local artists would have access to a world-class performing arts and events facility on the Olympic Peninsula. She is one of many local individuals who has stepped up to help achieve this dream, and emblematic of the kind of community collaboration that has made Field Hall possible.
We invite you to be a part of this legacy. Your contributions help us continue to provide a home for the arts in Port Angeles, offering programs that enrich our community and ensure access to the arts for all. Naming rights are still available for those looking to make a lasting impact. By becoming a donor, you help sustain the very spaces where creativity thrives and where future generations will be inspired.
