West Seattle was taking it to the streets last night! One by one, the roads were closed to traffic, and the air was filled with the clang of Summer Fest tent parts hitting the pavement. Before too long, the air was also filled with bubbles and the delightful giggles of children, watching Bubble Man with their families! Summer Fest Eve Art Walk is the secret calm before the storm of West Seattle’s biggest weekend – and it did not disappoint. The art was blocky, moving, emotional. Matisse-style silkscreens from Sandy Nelson at John L. Scott. Paris love-note photos (before the Notre Dame fire) from Betty Laughlin at Wild Rose’s. Gorgeous sepia photos from Jessica Ry’cheal at Virago (Artist reception Saturday evening!). Some firsts: recent Seattle University BFA graduate Alexandra Penglis had already sold a photographic montage at Rosefit in her first ever exhibit. Some eternals: the Inner Alchemy Tribe created a modern-day interpretation of an ancient mandala, while Elise Powers celebrated the age-old art of macrame within.

The crowd grew before 7pm when Jennifer Cepeda’s DancePowered Dance Flash Mob thrilled with dance inspired by the 80’s complete with a Flash Dance water moment! The group’s energy was contagious and the audience was all smiles. As dusk fell, glasses clinked at Happy Hours and the rocking rhythms of the Yada Yada Blues Band outside West Five spilled out into the street.

We want to thank all our generous partners for the support they bring the West Seattle Art Walk – The Office of Rebecca Mitsui, Verity Credit Union, Northwest Art & Frame, Canna West Seattle, John L. Scott Real Estate and Sound Credit Union. Thank you, too, to the all artists, merchants, and restaurants/bars/cafes for making this monthly event happen. To you, art-seeker, thanks for being part of this community.

Here’s a small photo recap of Art Walk night for the month of July by volunteer photographers Tami L., Todd M. and Reeve W. Most of the artwork featured will be up all month long, so do find time to visit these venues.

Did you take any photos? Tag us on Instagram (wsartwalk) or use our hashtag #westseattleartwalk on your photos. Please like or follow us to stay up to date!