Belfair Self-Storage hosts 'Art From My Living Room'

Sunday promises to see Belfair Self-Storage test out a new approach as owner and manager Barbara Treick invites the public to enjoy “Art From My Living Room” at 2 p.m.at the business’ location at 23270 NE state Route 3.

Although Belfair Self-Storage’s previous art receptions have showcased some of the artists in-person with their pieces, and even included a couple of live performances, Treick said the post-holiday months can be slow for foot-traffic.

Treick described Belfair Self Storage’s holiday art reception, featuring Native American musician Vince Redhouse and local painter Tai Connell just prior to Thanksgiving, as having gone well, she nonetheless noted, “With the arrival of winter, we won’t be able to host guest artists for the simple reason that it would be too cold to change our reader board. It simply wouldn’t be fair to display some artists, but not others.”

Although Treick knew the “rotating” part of her rotating art gallery would not be possible in the meantime, she still wanted to keep the gallery going, and was finally inspired by a conversation she had with Belfair sculptor James Kelsey, whose artwork was unveiled locally as part of the Port of Allyn’s centennial celebration last fall.

“He asked me why I hang on to so many of my own pieces of art, and at first, my response was simply, ‘Because I want them,’” Treick said. “They were pieces I didn’t want to let go of. But then I thought, since I love them so much, maybe other people would enjoy looking at them as well.”

To recreate the feel of her living room for the exhibit, Treick plans to display works by other artists that she has on display in her home.

“No family photos,” Treick laughed, “but I have works from Ginger Van Boven that I got from Park Lane Gallery in Kirkland, and other artists from Fusion Glass Gallery in Ocean Shores. There’s a ceramic wall-hanging I got from Port Townsend, and even pieces from my grandson and granddaughter, from when they were in elementary and middle school.”

Treick probably will be short of a display or reception for the gallery in February. She said although she still is interested in setting up her space to host guest creators in conducting art-related classes, most of those who have expressed interest in doing so are, like her, dealing with medical matters. Looking beyond winter, Treick hopes to help celebrate “Music In Our Schools Month” in March, sponsored by the National Association for Music Education.

Treick promised to post more news on Belfair Self-Storage Facebook page.

Author Bio

Kirk Boxleitner, Reporter

Shelton-Mason County Journal & Belfair Herald
[email protected]