Clinton, the little town on south Whidbey Island, just off the ferry from Mukilteo, is experiencing a vibrant new arts movement.
What started as a single gallery/studio opened 6 years ago by artist Louie Rochon, has grown to include 4 art galleries and working studios. This growth has attracted new businesses to the commercial center.
Rochon says: “There wasn’t much here when I opened my gallery. Most folks knew this little town as the city you drive through after getting off the Clinton ferry, on their way to attractions on Whidbey Island. Cormac McCarthy opened his gallery a few years ago, along with the recent addition of two other professional artists, Melisa Koch Fine Art and Myra May Studios and Gallery. The momentum has accelerated, and like other ‘art enclaves,’ it’s taken the support of local businesses and word of mouth from the South Whidbey Island community. People are excited for us. As a result, we have a great deal of interest from other artists wanting to be a part of this new vibe. The more the merrier.”
Whidbey Island is known as a romantic weekend getaway spot, with epic mountain views, quaint inns, bed and breakfasts, great restaurants, miles of beaches, historic towns, and numerous galleries representing artists of all disciplines. Clinton is the latest addition to a vibrant art community.
Cormac McCarthy adds: “Whidbey Island is known as an ecosystem of creativity with a multitude of professional and emerging artists and numerous galleries. The ‘Clinton Arts District’ has, at it’s core, the vision of bringing together a wide array of local artists and diverse styles of art, in one location, where visitors have access to local talent. The island is incredibly supportive in helping shine some light on our little town, recognizing us as an art center. There is definitely a lot of excitement. We frequently hear comments like, “What’s going on Clinton? We love what you guys are doing. Clinton needs this!”
The Grand Opening is Saturday, 12/2 from 11:00 to 5:00, with holiday caroling from 2:00 to 3:00. The ‘Clinton Arts District’ is located in the Clinton mall, (just up the hill from the ferry) at 4777 Commercial St., Clinton WA 98236.
Myra Mae Platt: “For me, there is a deeply meaningful social practice that comes with this particular arts community... one of passion, collaboration, empathy, grace and generosity. It's exciting to be a part of this wonderful enclave in Clinton, whose authentic character is so lovely and rare.”
Melissa Koch adds: “I see our community as a beacon of light. Together, we support, nurture, inspire and uplift one another and the community with our artistry, friendship, collaborations, and openness to connect.”
Event Information:
Date: Saturday, Dec 2nd, from 11-5:00, Caroling from 2:00 to 3:00
Location: Clinton mall, (just up the hill from the ferry) at 4777 Commercial St., Clinton WA 98236
