New on the local art scene, this tiny, ivory-toned gallery is full of carefully curated contemporary art, with an emphasis on European artists. The pleasure of it comes from the selection, which is intriguing and thought-provoking in a subtle, unthreatening way. A recent highpoint was an unprepossessing series of photos taken during a crossing of the English Channel and then pasted together to show the entire Channel. Now that's a photograph.
The community of West Seattle centers around this former streetcar crossing at Alaska Street and California Avenue SW, called the 'spine' of West Seattle. The streetcars run no more. Now other cars rule the road, but the intersection itself features the 'Walk All Ways' crossing system, which gives pedestrians a free-for-all moment free from automotive assault. The area boasts famous and award-winning murals, the largest single grouping of murals in Seattle. Long-standing area businesses include Easy Street Records, the Husky Deli, Neilsen Florists and the Classic Barber Shop.
Join Diane LaVonne for an engaging and unique food experience, one which connects the farmer, the ingredients, and cooking, with the finished product. You will start with lessons on choosing fresh ingredients for the days menu at the "Heart of Seattle", the Pike Place Market, where you will meet many of the farmer vendors and shop owners she has known for more than 20 years. After the tour you will go to her kitchen for a fun, interactive experience, learning about, preparing, and enjoying the best of what the Northwest has to offer from its waters, farms, orchards, and vineyards.
For an impressive set of artifacts from all over the world, take the kids to the Karshner Museum in Puyallup. Mainly collected during the 1930s and 40s, this diverse collection of over 10,000 artifacts has everything: a hunk of the Great Wall of China, World War II replicas and even a severed elephant's foot (complete with touching privileges) are on display. No matter your particular interest, there is sure to be something here that fascinates and activates your imagination. Museum hours often change, so it's best to call for an appointment.