Featured 2011 Artists

Stop and chat with your favorite artist at Salmon Days - find out their story! Each year Salmon Days has hundreds of artists who exhibit and sell their handcrafted items. Some are new, while others have been participating in the festival for many years. Here are just a few stories, in their own words, from some of the great local and Northwestern artists at Salmon Days this year. We think you will be as excited about their "wild things" as we are. Enjoy!!

Kate Larsson - 2011 Salmon Days Featured Artist - Watercolors & Tiles

"I love to paint over sized pieces full of contrasting color and light. I use the same colors we all used in kindergarten before we were taught to "gray things down". If my art touches someone, makes them feel happier or more in touch with nature, then I am pleased." You can visit Kate at Booths 494 & 495, or check out her website, www.katelarssonstudio.com.

Chris Strein - Silver Wears

Chris learned his skills from his father in New Mexico, and is following in his footsteps. Regarding his unique pieces, he says: "I find more and more that not only do I enjoy designing and making my pieces, but also traveling the back roads of Washington state searching through antique stores for these long forgotten treasures and envisioning what wonderful things they can become." Visit Chris at Booth 26 or learn more about his jewelry at www.silverwearsonline..

Tim Wistrom - Studio 60/40

Renowned professional artist, Tim Wistrom has established himself as an innovative and unique modern master of realism and surrealism. His realistic scenes are marine and nature images, while the surrealistic paintings ponder a "what if?" view of the future. His works are widely collected for their thought provoking themes and attention to detail. After growing up in Germany, on the East Coast, in San Diego, and Seattle; Washington has been his home for over 25 years. Tim and his wife, Nancy, will be at Booth 419. Check out his gallery and weekly blog at www.timwistrom.com.

Steve and Kim Davis - Go With The Flow Copper Water Features

"Our love for nature and it"s sounds ignited our creative energy. We believe the sound of water creates tranquility within a world of chaos. Combining metal and water evokes a sensory experience resulting in a visual, tactile and auditory phenomenon. When available, our water features are created using recycled copper. Pieces are welded and braised for excellent durability. This allows for both indoor and outdoor placement." Find ideas at www.gowiththeflowfountains.com, enjoy their fountains at Booth 438 and maybe even discuss some custom work!

Justin Hillgrove - Imps and Monsters

"Justin Hillgrove grew up in Snohomish, WA and has been enjoying artistic expression since he was old enough to color on the walls. Mostly self-taught, he spent many years in the design industry before setting out on his own to spend his days paintings monsters, robots, and other such nonsense. In the last 15 years Justin has worked on everything from books and magazines to collectible card games and toys. He currently lives in WA with his wife, four kids, a host of chickens, and a dozen or so imaginary friends." Stop by Booth 142 to view a myriad of Justin's designs and creations or go to his website at www.impsandmonsters.com.

Steph Mader - Tolt River Studios

"I believe it is the artist's job to have a definite point of view, to look at things in a fresh way and to communicate those ideas. That is the value of art, and the essential difference between handmade things and manufactured things. I hope that curiosity and experience gives me something worthwhile to communicate through the work I do." Steph is currently showing her work in Northwest regional art festivals and galleries. Her glass pieces are irresistible, so drop by Booth 292 or go to the gallery online at www.stephmader.com