This spring has been hopping with lots of events for artists and arts supporters!

The June 9 Artists Up resources and networking event for Asian, Asian American and Asian-Pacific Islander Artists was packed with 60+ artists. With the goal of sharing best practices through peer learning, building connections between artists and funders, and demystifying funding programs and processes, Artist Trust, our partners 4Culture and Office of Arts & Culture, and several guest artists shared info and answered questions. Thanks to all who attended and helped out!

Big thanks as well to everyone who came to the salons at Preston Singletary's glorious studio and Michael and Cathy Casteel's art-filled home. Both events were truly inspiring, from the testimonials of guest artists to the funds raised from many amazing arts supporters! As Cathy said:

Art kicks my butt, breaks my heart, stops me in my tracks, makes me laugh, makes me cry. It affects the way I move through space. It can change the way I hear... I like knowing artists--they are funny, smart, mad scientists. They go out on a limb for us. They teach us so much. It's a privilege and an honor to live with their artwork. It can be easy to focus on the art, but there are real people behind the work, and we shouldn't forget them. That's why Artist Trust is so important--the unabashed dedication to individual artists--granting them money and tools."

Our fiscal year ends June 30. Your donation of any amount helps ensure that Washington State artists of all disciplines are supported for years to come!

• June 19: The Art Hazards Project, Seattle / Reducing Reproductive Risks to Artists: Free workshop on reducing your risks from toxic art chemicals that are linked to reduced fertility, birth defects and developmental disorders.  

• Through August 21: Spaceworks Tacoma / Artscapes: Installations in vacant storefronts by Christian French, Ellen Hochberg and others.