"When it comes to love, the opportunities are endless and we are all gifted." ~ Leo Buscaglia

Many believe that this is the prettiest regions in Washington State, and of course, "the water" has a lot to do with it ~ Lake Union, Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, and then, beautiful, shimmering Puget Sound (shown in the background of this photo).

This area is incredibly diverse and filled with handsome architecture, pretty parks and more.

I've divided this collection into four regional groups with sub-categories. Each one highlights several paintings which periodically revolve ~ as this page's featured work changes with the season.

FOUR PUGET SOUND COLLECTIONS:

NEW Artwork, Collection Pdfs & "The BIG List"

Enjoy ~ and click on Ordering for details on purchasing. (Now accepting Visa, MasterCard and American Express.)

"Autumn at The Academy Through the Years" (CAPITOL HILL, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED FEBRUARY 2010 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 9X12-INCH)

In 1880, Holy Names Academy was founded by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, under the guidance of Mother Marie Rose Durocher.

In 1859,the sisters came to Oregon, and about 20 years later established a school (23 to start) in Seattle at Second & Seneca Streets. As the city and student body grew, the school relocated ~ finally settling at its current Capitol Hill site. Albert Beitung designed the handsome structure in the neo-classical style, and in 1906, under the leadership of Sister Mary Leontine, ground was broken. Bishop Edward J. O’Dea presided as the cornerstone was laid in 1907 and the building dedicated in 1908.

Originally housing 12 grades and a Normal School, the Academy has grown, met challenges and adapted to the changing world. Today’s Holy Names Academy offers an up-to-date college-prep curriculum, while grounding students in the values that have ensured its success for decades.

This piece pictures staff and classmates from three generations: (L-R) 1930s (frocks), 1950s (jumpers), and 1970s (skirts & blazers). NOTE: the 1970s group includes guests from Spokane’s HNA ~ thus the two different skirts.

For more information on this fine Seattle high school, visit them at HolyNames-Sea.org.

"Pioneer Square Pergola" (DOWNTOWN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED OCTOBER 2002 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

Seattle’s pergola is the focal point of Pioneer Square. Early in 2001 a delivery truck accidentally clipped the 91-year-old pergola, pulling the ornate cast-iron structure to the ground. Craftsmen restored this beloved landmark in August, 2002 (record time!), much to the delight of locals and visitors. Pioneer Square is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, but especially during the holidays when tiny white fairy lights sparkle everywhere.

My niece, Kelly Barton, is pictured taking a break from shopping with her chums, Lauren, Bonnie and Katie. Her parents, aunts and uncles are resting on comfortable park benches beneath the pergola.

To learn more about Pioneer Square, log on to PioneerSquare.org.

"The Stimson-Green Mansion" (CAPITOL HILL, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED FEBRUARY 2002 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

The Stimson-Green mansion was designed for D.C. Stimson, a wealthy Seattle lumber merchant, in1901 by Spokane architect Kirtland K. Cutter. Built for $30,000 with an additional $16,000 set aside for furnishings, Stimson tolerated the inconvenience of the 300-mile distance between Seattle and Spokane to use Cutter, because he was the architect he most preferred. Constructed in the classic Tudor, half-timbered style, this home is almost identical to the Amasa Campbell House (see the What's New page) in Spokane, but Cutter flipped the floor plans to take advantage of the Capitol Hill view.

When Seattle became more crowded, Stimson relocated to the exclusive Highlands neighborhood, where Cutter designed a residence on a much grander scale for the family. The Joshua Green family then moved into this home.

Today the Stimson-Green Mansion is the setting for social gatherings and special events, and is available to the public. Click on the StimsonGreen.com page for details.

"The Husky House (Detail)" (LESCHI, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED SEPTEMBER 1998• ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This artwork celebrates the love affair with the University of Washington Huskies that the owners of this little brick Tudor share. Note their Husky flag blowing in the autumn breeze. The home, which is loaded with personality, belongs to Margy and Scott Samuelson, and overlooks Lake Washington from the Leschi neighborhood. The owners have worked hard to preserve the original rustic feel of this onetime summer lake cabin. They’ve kept the original stone fireplace, wood paneling and wagon wheel-style chandelier in their great room. The backyard is crisscrossed with stone pathways and bordered gardens that lead to a large outdoor rock fireplace and Hansel-and-Gretel-style garden shed. The couple hosts an annual holiday open house to kick off the parade of Christmas ships on Lake Washington. It’s a short two-block walk to the bonfire on the shore where onlookers gather to warm themselves in the December air and sing Christmas carols.

Click on the Seafair.com page for details.

Entire Seattle Collection pdf ~ Click here to see the three-page pdf of all 13 paintings).

MEDINA & BELLEVUE

"Medina Neighborhood Market" (MEDINA, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2001 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This charming corner grocery was known for decades as the “penny candy store” for the lakeside community of Medina, Washington. At the time I painted this piece, the little store had an uncertain future, as rumor had it that the familiar little “landmark” might be demolished as the lot it was sitting on was so valuable. Recently, I drove through Medina, and saw that the building had had a great deal of work repair work done and was open again for business.

In 2001, when I began the portrait of it, the market has just closed its doors, but retained the casual coziness of days gone by. The market holds lots of memories for the kids who grew up within walking distance of it in the 1950s and 1960s.

"The Winters House" (BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2005• ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

The Winters House, just off Bellevue Way en-route to I-90, is one of the loveliest structures in Bellevue. Partially hidden by its lush foliage, many of the homeward-bound commuters may miss this architectural gem.

Part of the Eastside Heritage Center, this Mission-Revival-style structure has been carefully restored. The Winters House hosted the annual Strawberry Festival in 2002, where throngs of happy shortcake-lovers spilled out of every room onto the upper deck and back patio (wildlife viewing platform). The E.H.C. features several exhibits here each year and it’s well worth a visit!

For more information on this worthy organization, visit them at EastsideHeritageCenter.org.

YARROW POINT, CLYDE HILL & KIRKLAND

"Springtime at the Shumway Mansion" (KIRKLAND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MARCH 2006 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This beautiful shingled mansion was built on a seven-acre lot in Kirkland in 1909-1910 by J.G. Bartsch for the Belchertown, Massachusetts Shumway family.

Three Shumway brothers arrived first, homesteading near Bow, Washington, and were followed by Carrie Holland Shumway, her mother and four sisters in the early 1800s. Carrie served very actively on Kirkland's City Council, being Washington's first woman to be elected in 1916 to such a post. Several organizations, such as the Kirkland's Women's Club, the Seattle Bicycle Club and the Seattle Camera Club owe their beginning to this remarkable women and her sisters. In 1944 at age 86, Carrie sold her home.

After several ownerships, in 1982 Richard and Salli Harris of Edmonds bought it and relocated it to a 3.4-acre setting overlooking Juanita Bay. The 24-room mansion was restored and re-opened in 1985 as a popular Bed-and-Breakfast, where it was a beloved setting for weddings and other special events for many years.

"Planting Petunias at the Peter Kirk Building" (KIRKLAND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2007 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This magnificent Victorian brick building in the Romanesque Revival Style, was built in 1889 by entrepreneur, Peter Kirk, on the corner of Market Street and Seventh (then Piccadilly). Although the financial upheaval of 1893 impacted Kirk’s grand business plans, he remained active in this Lake Washington community until he retired in the San Juans and died in 1916.

Sadly, the building fell into disrepair in the 1960s after several owners and usages. William Radcliff, a teacher, visionary, and inspiration of the Creative Arts League, rescued the building with the Peter Kirk Syndicate and other civic minded attorneys, physicians, architects and more.

Listed on the National Historic Register in 1973, today it houses the Kirkland Arts Center where I’ve painted my family members hard at work planting flowers. To learn about this creative organization, visit them at KirklandArtsCenter.org.

Visit my Retail page for info on the Kirkland Arts Center Store in Parkplace showcasing KAC artists' works for sale.

REDMOND, WOODINVILLE & SAMMAMISH

NEW! "Antics at Anderson Park" (REDMOND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED APRIL 2011 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

Anderson Park came about as a result of property deeded to Redmond in 1928 by School District No. 200 in 1928. Originally named Redmond Town Park, it was changed to Anderson Park to honor Albert “Andy” Anderson, the city’s first parks superintendent. Beautiful, rustic log cabins pepper the property. The one pictured here was built in 1939 and named for Adair, wife of Ezra Sikes, who donated additional property to enlarge the park in 1938.

I pictured our two grandchildren Austin and Addison playing in the brightly colored leaves at this beloved Redmond setting.

"Gathering at The Grange (Happy Valley)" (REDMOND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED OCTOBER 2009 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

I completed this portrait of #322 Happy Valley Grange in honor of its 100th birthday. Founded in 1909, the clapboard building is located in the pretty, rural pocket of small farms in Happy Valley just east of Redmond.

The grange had just been given a “sprucing up” inside and out when I painted the evening mid-winter scene. It shows me and fellow artists, potters and other creators unloading our work for a holiday arts & crafts fair. The grange was the ideal setting for this event as it’s near a bustling Christmas tree farm. Two friendly snowman are keeping us company on this chilly winter night.

See my What's New page for details about the upcoming 2011 Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, December 3rd.

NEW! "Heyday at the Hollywood Schoolhouse (WOODINVILLE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED FEBRUARY 2011 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This is a revision of painting that I finished about a decade ago. I added much more detail, including the pretty gardens to show the building the way it looks today.

This handsome old brick two-story schoolhouse was constructed in 1912 with lumber donated by successful millionaire, Frederick Stimson. It's located near the popular Columbia and Ste. Michelle Wineries and the facility is available for weddings, art fairs and other special event celebrations.

When I finished this artwork, a new winery has just opened in the daylight basement of this building ~ helping to grow Woodinville as a wine-producing destination attracting visitors from all over the region.

To learn more about this setting, log on to HollywoodSchoolhouse.com.

"Springtime at the Smith House" (SAMMAMISH, WASHINGTON • PAINTED NOVEMBER 2003 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This handsome three-story Colonial home, located just east of Lake Sammamish on the Plateau, is a faithful reproduction of a home that architect Frank Tichy disassembled in New England and reassembled on one of the islands in Puget Sound.

Using the original home as a “blueprint,” Tichy was extremely attentive and “true” to the original detail ~ and constructed a handful of these residences in Western Washington.

This home was built on a hillside, part of the owner’s natural forested property and has a view of the valley below. The painting was commissioned as a surprise Christmas gift for Mary Smith by her husband, Jim.

SNOQUALMIE

"Sightseeing at the Snoqualmie Depot" ~ (SNOQUALMIE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MARCH 2001 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

Located in the picturesque little town of Snoqualmie, not far from the Salish Lodge and Spa, this beautifully detailed Victorian-style railway depot houses both a small museum and gift shop ~ a great place to visit for train lovers of all ages. (TrainMuseum.org)

Every holiday season this train carries eager families on a short loop ride around nearby Snoqualmie Falls, culminating with breakfast with a very special guest ~ St. Nicholas! This is a favorite memory for both parents and children of all ages ~ and a "must-do" for holiday enthusiasts.

"Sunset at the Salish Lodge" (SNOQUALMIE, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2001 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

Famous for romantic weekends and sumptuous dining, this lodge offers gracious hospitality and a pampered lifestyle. Located near North Bend in the town of Snoqualmie, the Salish Lodge and Sap overlooks stunning Snoqualmie Falls.

Not only can sightseers enjoy the view of the crest of the falls at the lodge level, but a trail allows visitors to hike down to their equally spectacular base ~ quite a sight! For information on this destination, visit SalishLodge.com.

Entire Eastside Collection pdf ~ Click here to see the nine-page pdf of all 47 paintings in the Eastside communities.

NORTH PUGET SOUND

"Autumn at The Artistree Gallery ~ Country Village" (BOTHELL, WASHINGTON • PAINTED OCTOBER 1999 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

The Artistree Gallery in Country Village in Bothell, was where I had an ongoing show of my artwork during the 1990s. It’s part of a charming network of gift and garden shops, restaurants and antique stores which really springs to life during the autumn months and the holiday season.

Operated by Robin and Wendy James with lots of help from their father, Bob, all three are talented artists. Robin illustrated a series of nationally famous children’s books while Wendy created whimsical jewelry and other craft items. Bob was the genius behind the Bon Marche’s holiday trim for decades.

My husband and I are shown visiting with the James family on the sidewalk in front of the gallery.

"Cruising La Conner in Justatug" ~ (LA CONNER • PAINTED AUGUST 2009 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This is a portrait of the summer “residence” of Bill and Jamie Fowler.

The couple enjoys immensely cruising on Puget Sound in this vessel during the warm months.

This painting features their beloved “Justatug,” with the picturesque
town of La Conner (famous for its boating community ~ and tulips) in the background.

To learn more about this beautiful Pacific Northwest getaway, log on to LaConnerchamber.com.

Entire North Puget Sound Collection pdf ~ Click here to see a two-page pdf with all 10 paintings.

SNOHOMISH

"Pretty Purple Palace (Allen House)" (SNOHOMISH, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2009 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

The remarkable Allen House, located at 224 Avenue A in Snohomish, is a delightful study in intricate detail.

Built in 1856, this is one of the earlier Victorians that I found in the neighborhood. Embellished with ornamental wrought iron marching across its roofline and second story balcony, the home featured an imaginative color scheme of lush purple and Ceylon green with touches of cream. A pretty brick and masonry wall frames the garden, which is filled with flowering pots.

I’m shown here with my girlfriends, Robin, Holly and Marcia, decorating the house with hearts for Valentine’s Day. This house has recently been painted with a new color scheme.

"Making Snowmen at the Marks House" (SNOHOMISH, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2009 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

It seems like in the past couple of years, we’ve had more snow than ever in the normally balmy Pacific Northwest ~ thus the snowman theme for this artwork.

When I saw this unique frame and basaltic rock cottage, it made me think of the cozy home of “Little Women” author, Louisa May Alcott, in Concord, Massachusetts. Themes of thick quilts, cups of hot cocoa by the fire, and sleeping kitties on the hearth came to mind as I worked on this.

Located at 304 Avenue D, this home is a departure from the other colorful Victorians with its dark siding and stonework. The Tom Marks House, built in 1894, has Arts & Crafts touches like the stain glass window.

NEW! "Treehouse Treasure at Tea Time (Vestal House)" (SNOHOMISH, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MARCH 2011 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This Victorian on Union Street is especially remarkable because of its companion treehouse (on the left) and gazebo (on the right). Built by State Senator Samuel Vestal for $2,000 in 1889, it had 23 doors, 44 windows (many with colored panes), two staircases and two coal stoves.

He needed a very large home to accommodate his wife and eight children. It remained in the Vestal family for decades until 1967. In 1988, the Jerry Moyers purchased it, upgrading the property with insulation, new paint (77 gallons!), plumbing, etc., keeping its authentic vintage feel.

When I painted this, a lovely elderly lady lived there. Frances is pictured on the porch welcoming her neighbor Penny and me for afternoon tea. Our kitties have tagged along.

NEW! "Blackman House Beauty" (SNOHOMISH, WASHINGTON • PAINTED MAY 2011 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

The Blackman family home in Snohomish was built in 1878 by Hyrcanus and Ella Blackman. He was one of three entrepreneurial brothers with extensive business and political interests in the area ~ including logging, mining, fruit growing, retail and more. Hyrcanus was chief of police, city legislator, mayor and served on the Snohomish School Board. His wife was accomplished as well as an amateur artist and fine embroiderer.

The family lived here until 1970 when their home was sold to the Snohomish Historical Society. When I painted this piece, it served as their museum depicting rural Victorian life.

I pictured my family enjoying the Annual Tour of Historic Homes in Spring 2010 (the event was normally held in September).

To learn more about this historic community, visit Ci.Snohomish.WA.US.

Entire Snohomish Collection pdf ~ Click here to see a four-page pdf with all 22 paintings.

THE SOUTH END AND KITSAP COUNTY

"The House in the Park" (NORMANDY PARK, WASHINGTON • PAINTED APRIL 2006 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This lovely home, bordered by flower beds and shrubbery in full bloom, is part of Normandy Park, a pretty neighborhood just south of Seattle on Puget Sound.

The setting is the childhood home of Merri Berg, who commissioned this painting because this house holds many, many wonderful memories for her. She is pictured in the foreground at age 10 with her dog, Skipper, who is getting a quick nuzzle before she heads off to school.

"Happy Holidays at the State Capitol" (OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON • PAINTED JUNE 2003 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 11x14-INCH)

Our state's capitol in Olympia holds a dear place in my heart. At the invitation of Lt. Governor and Mrs. Brad Owen and other members of their Arts Council, I have been asked four times to participate in art exhibits at the Legislative Building (known to most of us as the Capitol Building).

It's been such an honor to be recognized and allowed to take part in these events ~ plus I've made some really wonderful friends in the process. To thank the Lt. Governor and his wife for their kindness and support, I completed this 16x20" painting, and gave framed prints to both the Owens and Governor and Mrs. Gary Locke.

I painted this holiday piece, picturing carolers of many different ethnic backgrounds.

For information on its history, tours and events, visit the Legislative Building at Ga.WA.Gov/Index.

Entire South End/Kitsap County Collection pdf ~ Click here to see a two-page pdf with all 10 paintings.

PORT TOWNSEND

"The Blue House B&B" (PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED OCTOBER 1986) • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

I’ve painted this lovely little two-story Queen Anne-style home twice, once with a snowy winter theme, and another celebrating Thanksgiving.

J.B. Hogg, for whom the house was built at the turn of the century, was an engineer in this charming seaport town that was once slated to be the state capitol instead of Olympia.

In earlier days, the windowed sleeping porch visible on the right side of the second floor of this pretty home was open to Port Townsend's sea air.

When the house was sold, the wood and shingle frame building later functioned as a rectory for Catholic priests in the 1950s.

"Skating Serenade" (PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED DECEMBER 2000 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 16X20-INCH)

I worked on this ambitious snow scene for over a decade, years ago after touring the historic homes in Port Townsend.

I fell in love with the “Old Consulate Inn” (also known as the Frank Hastings House), and built my entire painting around it.

Since then I’ve finished another painting featured here as well, “Cozy Consulate B & B” with a summertime theme.

This piece has a few imaginary buildings and other details, like railroad tracks and a tiny depot,a pristine white church, and a covered bridge. Skaters are on the ice and sleigh riders are slicing merrily through the snow while Doug and I wave from the front porch.

"The Cozy Consulate" (PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED APRIL 2000) • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This artwork celebrates the onetime German Consulate building in Port Townsend, Washington, also known as the Frank HastingsHouse. It is pictured above in "Skating Serenade."

A “must see” for visitors to this quaint town, the beloved landmark is currently welcoming guests as the “Old Consulate Inn.” (OldConsulateInn.com.) NOTE: the name “Cozy Consulate B & B” is my creation.)The house overlooks the seaside vista from the back of the house, although the view is not as clearly defined as in this rendition. I’ve pictured myself in the window, while my husband, Doug, is puttering around on the front porch, decorating it with pots of colorful flowers.

"Marriage at the Starrett Mansion" (PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTON • PAINTED AUGUST 2006 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

What a lovely setting for a wedding-themed painting! The famed Starrett Mansion is one of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in the United States.

This beautiful three-story was built at 744 Clay Street for only $6,000 in 1889 at 744 Clay Street by George Starrett as a second anniversary gift for his wife, Ann. Unique to the home is the tower, free-floating staircase, and interior “widow’s walk,” (so that the wife waiting for her husband to return from sea could watch and wait in comfort).

The Smithsonian Institute believes that the two-tiered free-floating staircase is the last one of its kind in the country.

The ceiling of the tower features the “Fresco of the Four Seasons,” created by Seattle artist, Otto Chapman, which also was designed to serve as a solar calendar.

For more information on this quaint, seaside community, visit PTGuide.com.

Entire Port Townsend Collection pdf ~ Click here to see a four-page pdf of all 17 paintings.

VASHION, WHIDBEY AND THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS ~ INCLUDING THE ROCHE HARBOR COLLECTION

NEW! "Flying Kites at Lopez Island (LOPEZ ISLAND, PUGET SOUND • PAINTED MARCH 2011 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

This is a revision of an earlier painting I finished in 1994. In those days, the inn was grey with white trim, and owned by actor Tom Skerritt, whose screen credits included ”Top Gun,” “Steel Magnolias” and “A River Runs Through It,” to name a few. The Lopez Island retreat overlooked the harbor, and offered charming accommodations and delicious gourmet meals in its award-winning restaurant.

New proprietors gave the inn a coat of buttery yellow paint and added flags to the front of the building. I pictured my husband Doug and me with my sis Marilee flying kites with the numbers of the inn’s address on them.

For more information on this pretty island getaway, visit them on the web at EdenwildInn.com.

"Roche Harbor Reverie" (SAN JUAN ISLAND, PUGET SOUND, WA • PAINTED JULY 2000 • ACRYLIC ON CANVAS • 8X10-INCH)

The focal point of Roche Harbor Resort and Marina, this once private residence of the village’s founder, John S. McMillin, became a fine restaurant.

In the early 1900s, Roche Harbor housed a very successful lime kiln, processing plant and all of its workers and families. The McMillin family homes and business out-buildings were beautifully restored years ago and converted to a resort.

During the summer holidays, and especially Independence Day, guests crowd its deck and dining room to enjoy the magnificent harbor view and to feast on tasty dishes and libations.

Roche Harbor is a charming, seaside destination in the San Juans Islands. For information, visit them at RocheHarbor.com.

Entire Islands Collection pdf ~ Click on here to see a four-page pdf of all 17 paintings.

Click here to access "The BIG List" showing ALL of the artwork titles alphabetically in the Puget Sound Collection's four groupings.

IF YOU'D LIKE TO REACH ME ~

iPhone: 206.406.1409

Email: artist@pattisimpsonward.com

On the Web: PattiSimpsonWard.com