Submitted by the Orcas Center.

The Orcas Center’s Visual Arts Committee invites you to the next Art Opening on Friday, Sept. 26, from 5:30-7 p.m., featuring an Artist Talk with David Densmore at 6 p.m. This special evening will showcase Densmore’s work in the lobby gallery, alongside the community exhibit “Movement” in the Madrona Room.

Densmore’s paintings celebrate the landscapes of Orcas Island and the people who have cherished them for generations. “I’m showing paintings of Orcas Island and environs that honor the soul and depth of these lands and the people who have loved them,” he explains. “Something soft, something calm, something joyful, something challenging, something playful, something odd, something familiar, something strange. Perhaps these paintings can live within you as you enter back into the landscape.”

Densmore’s creative journey spans decades and many mediums. After studying metalworking at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, he designed jewelry in New York City before moving to Orcas Island nearly 40 years ago. Since then, his artistry has taken many forms: from cardboard masks for the Halloween dance and parade costumes, to jewelry at the Artworks, carved rattles, bowls and totemic sculptures. For the past 25 years, he has turned his attention to painting the island’s landscapes, capturing their spirit and vitality. In addition to his visual art, Densmore has written lyrics for many of Susan Osborn’s recordings and released his own album, “Brainstem Bouquet,” available on Bandcamp. More of his work can be found at www.ddensmore.com.

Join us on Sept. 26 for an evening of refreshments, community and a vibrant display of art from David Densmore and local islanders. The exhibit will remain on display through Oct. 21.

For more information, visit www.OrcasCenter.org/VAC or email vac@OrcasCenter.org.