Sequim’s Bue Whole Gallery to showcase ‘Elements of Nature’

By Sequim Gazette Staff • August 28, 2024 1:30 am

A pair of well-known local artists look to start the fall season with “Elements of Nature,” the new exhibit set for September at the Blue Whole Gallery.

Mike Middlestead and Julie Senf will have their artistry on display at the gallery, 129 W. Washington St., with a “meet the artists” event during the First Friday Art Walk Sequim from 5-8 p.m. on Sept. 6.

Senf, an Olympic Peninsula resident for more than 40 years, is a watercolorist displaying her love of the Peninsula’s natural beauty in her paintings. Years ago, after she began drawing and painting, she realized her fascination with the diversity of this area.

Artwork courtesy of Blue Whole Gallery / “Cape Flattery” by Julie Senf, a featured artist at the Blue Whole Gallery this September.

She’s created pieces inspired by sch scenes as Cape Flattery, the top of Storm King and the leaves falling from the trees.

“I’ve come to realize what I enjoy capturing most with my paints is this amazing area and it’s natural beauty” she said.

Middlestead retired tot he area after 25 years in the U.S. Coast Guard. He found his way to ceramics after he retired and was taking an introduction to art class in college; he found clay and hasn’t looked back.

Photo courtesy of Blue Whole Gallery Artwork by Mike Middlestead, a featured artist at the Blue Whole Gallery this September.

Middlestead has created everything from a life size Raku king salmon to barnacle encrusted vases.

“I love this medium,” Middlestead said. “I am always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with clay, always with a focus on the environment, especially the water.”