Artists' Talk: Urban Sketchers Bainbridge

Come meet Susan Jackson, Marilyn Place, and Kathy Clowery of Bainbridge Urban Sketchers as they share the stories behind how they began drawing and what keeps them coming back to sketch together every week. They’ll discuss how their art has evolved over time, the influence of sketching alongside talented artists, and how they encourage newcomers to the group.

The artwork in BIMA's current Urban Sketchers exhibition was all created on location across Bainbridge Island. Visitors will recognize many familiar local spots, along with some pieces offering a more private glimpse into local homes and gardens, giving an insider’s view of Bainbridge Island.

Urban Sketchers Bainbridge is always free to participate! All you need is a pencil and a piece of paper — and if you don't have any, they’re happy to provide them.

Audience Q&A and reception to follow.

Guest name:

Susan Jackson

Guest bio:

Susan Jackson:

With 10 years at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, followed by serving as the Director of the Aspen Art Museum and 13 years as Executive Director of Bainbridge Arts and Crafts, Susan Jackson has spent much of her career in the art world. She is currently serving as Interim Director at Bainbridge Arts and Crafts. Susan began drawing about 10 years ago, initially as a way to stay occupied while her partner, a painter, stopped to sketch during their travels. Once she overcame the initial self-criticism of her "starter" drawings, she discovered a true passion for the process of sketching. In November 2018, Susan helped establish Urban Sketchers Bainbridge, formalizing the group as a chapter of Urban Sketchers.

Marilyn Place Bio:

With 25 years of experience as an elementary school teacher in Alaska and as the lead in the BISD homeschool support program with a focus on creative arts, Marilyn Place has always been deeply involved in art and education. She has exhibited pastel works at Bainbridge Arts and Crafts. Drawing has always been a part of her life, but she fully returned to it and began painting after raising her family and retiring from teaching. Her work is inspired by a strong sense of place, which is why she eagerly embraced the opportunity to sketch weekly at different island locations with Urban Sketchers. Marilyn is inspired by the growth in others' work and enjoys the freedom and spontaneity of sketching and painting quickly to capture a scene.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Frank Buxton Auditorium | Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, 550 Winslow Way East, Bainbridge Island, United States