From Art Walks to Galleries: Your Guide to Exploring the Visual Arts on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island is home to a *thriving* visual arts scene. Whether you’re an artist looking for an active community or you’re someone who appreciates the arts and loves going on art walks and studio tours (or of course, both!), you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Keep reading for a quick look at where to get started on your Whidbey Island art adventures!
Whidbey Art Trail
The Whidbey Art Trail is a unique experience offered by the Whidbey Island Arts Council that makes it as easy as possible to explore a few of our island’s visual art studios. The “trail” features 17 different artists who work with a variety of mediums, and you’ll find artists on the Whidbey Art Trail creating everything from handmade baskets and metal art to felted art pieces and glass art.
Here’s an interactive map that shows the locations of each artists’ studio:
Oak Harbor Art Trail
Oak Harbor has its very own art trail, and this particular tour is all about discovering the public art that can be found throughout Oak Harbor. While many of the art pieces are in Downtown Oak Harbor, some are a bit harder to find, making for a fun scavenger hunt!
You can find photos of each piece + the location here—keep this guide handy as you make your way through Oak Harbor.
Whidbey Working Artists
Each summer, Whidbey Working Artists hosts a weekend of open studio tours featuring the studios of 70+ artists. No matter what style or medium you enjoy viewing and learning more about, the huge variety of work represented means that there’s something for everyone. Take a look at a map that shows the location of each artist studio open to visitors:
First Saturday Art Walk in Downtown Langley
On the first Saturday of each and every month from 5-7pm, the Langley Art Walk offers the opportunity to see a wonderful selection of local art. Participating galleries along First and Second Streets in Langley open their doors to the public, and it’s the perfect way to start the evening!
The Whidbey Art Gallery
There are several art galleries throughout Whidbey Island, but if you’d like to see as many artists as possible in one place, The Whidbey Art Gallery features 37 Whidbey Island artists who work in a variety of mediums. Browse everything from paintings and photography to fiber art and jewelry.
Callahan’s Firehouse Studio & Gallery
If you’re on the lookout for a truly unique experience, Callahan’s Firehouse Studio & Gallery is a not-to-miss stop on your Whidbey arts tour. In addition to browsing the shop that’s filled with unique glass pieces for purchase, you can even try your hand at blowing glass and create your own original piece (just make sure to schedule your appointment in advance).
Artworks Gallery at Greenbank Farm
Another great “one stop shop” is Artworks Gallery at the iconic Greenbank Farm. This gallery features 15 Whidbey artists in several different mediums, and visitors can enjoy viewing (and purchasing!) one-of-a-kind creations in addition to all of the other sights and attractions that can be found at Greenbank Farm.
Garry Oak Gallery
Featuring the work of 25+ artists, Garry Oak Gallery is a co-op gallery that makes a point to provide an eclectic variety of art, including affordable art all the way to higher-priced pieces. Nestled in the heart of historic Downtown Oak Harbor, it’s a must-visit stop when you’re in the neighborhood sightseeing!
