The art of food

At last Saturday's Proctor Farmers Market, a dozen artists -- members of the Proctor Art Gallery and others -- set up their easels and drawing boards to provide a demonstration of art in action. Donations and pledges received at the various artist booths will go to purchase fresh produce for the Northwest FISH Food Bank, which is located at Mason United Methodist Church, adjacent to the Market. In watercolors, oils, pencil, collage, and even wood, the artists created food- and market-themed works to the delight of the watching shoppers. So far the Art-a-Thon has raised more than $1200 in donations and pledges. Donations are still being accepted online and at the Proctor Art Gallery, located at 3811 N. 26th in Tacoma.

Below: At the Market, artist Brad Stave demonstrates his wood-turning technique in crafting a wooden spice jar.














At right: Proctor Art Gallery owner Carolyn Burt displays her painting technique. One of her finished images of the market is on the easel behind her.

Below: Painter Mary Mann sported a "Make Art, Not War" t-shirt as she worked on a still life of fresh Market produce.











Thanks so much to the Proctor Farmers Market, the Proctor Art Gallery, and all the wonderful participating artists who contributed their time and talent to make the Art-a-Thon such a success. Their efforts will make it possible for the families who come to Northwest FISH to have fresh, healthy produce as part of a nutritious diet.