April 28, 2014

On any given day at Greenbank Farm there’s a good chance you’ll see a variety of birds, with more than 80 species identified on the farm throughout the year. Geese and ducks dominate the pond and are never shy about greeting visitors. Resident blue herons wander the far field and command attention each day as they spread their broad blue wings and take flight. Falcons and eagles are easily spotted, while hummingbirds entertain everybody as they dive-bomb the flowers. In short, there’s always an abundance of birds on the island and many artists take note of their ample grace and variety of personalities.

“Robin,” watercolor on paper by Frances Wood will be at the Rob Schouten Gallery through June 2. / Photo courtesy of the artist

Sculptor Sharon Spencer and watercolorist Frances Wood are two Whidbey Island artists who are very much inspired by birds. Both artists have an intimate knowledge  and deep respect for these creatures, which brings out special and lovingly rendered works of art. 

The birds of Spencer and Wood will be featured at Rob Schouten Gallery at Greenbank Farm through May with “Taking Flight,” an exhibition devoted to each artist’s love and respect for these feathered friends. The show opens Friday, May 2 and runs through Monday, June 2. Several special events for bird enthusiasts and art lovers alike have been planned to coincide with “Taking Flight,” including:

• Opening night reception with light refreshments at First Friday at the Farm from 5 to 8 p.m. on May 2 at Rob Schouten Gallery.

• Birdwatching with Whidbey Audubon members Frances Wood and Phyllis Kind at Greenbank Farm from 10 a.m.  to noon Tuesday, May 6, with refreshments at Rob Schouten Gallery to follow.

• “Whidbey’s Favorite Birds,” an illustrated talk with Frances Wood at the Langley Library from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 10.

• Frances Wood talks bird art at the “Saturday Salon” at Ryan and Friends Fine Art in Coupeville from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17.

• “Taking Flight,” a short talk on art and process with Sharon Spencer and Frances Wood from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 25 at Rob Schouten Gallery; light refreshments served.

Please come and see us at Greenbank Farm in the heart of Whidbey Island. Enjoy the gorgeous views and trails as well as all the galleries and shops at the farm including the famous Whidbey Pies Café.

Rob Schouten Gallery, a premier showcase for Whidbey Island and Northwest artists, is located at 765 Wonn Road, #C-103 at the historic Greenbank Farm. May Gallery Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.  For further information, call 360.222.3070 or email info@robschoutengallery.com.

Pictured at top, “Solitude,” bronze sculpture by Sharon Spencer. / Michael Stadler photo