About Us

artEAST is a fast growing, dynamic, and innovative nonprofit organization dedicated to making the arts an integral part of life in our community.

Our Vision

To be a catalyst for a vibrant and enduring visual arts community.

Our Mission

We exist to promote the visual arts.  We create, we teach, we learn, we exhibit, we sell, we gather and we support our artists and the community.

Our Value Statement

We are creating a community of art by

• Being authentic and putting people first
• Making room for fun, dreams and grand attempts
• Being a catalyst and visionary leader
• Having a bias for action, collaboration and involvement
• Creating an atmosphere for learning and growth

Our History

We were founded in 2005 as the Arts Collective of Issaquah by a small group of local artists who believe that whether we are viewing an exhibition, learning a new technique or expressing our creativity, art enriches our lives and creates energy and optimism.

In November 2010, artEAST moved from a small gallery space to a new 3200 square foot art center located in the heart of downtown Issaquah. Nestled between the I-90 corridor and the Issaquah Alps, the art center is centrally located in the historic downtown core and within walking distance of many of the city’s civic assets including the library, parks, schools, community center, tourist attractions, and city government.  Moving to this prime location positions the artEAST Art Center as a vital community hub where the visual arts and the community can meet. From this building – and future annex locations – we serve the greater Eastside as a visual arts learning center, exhibition center, and community gathering place.

In 2011, our new Art Center will exhibit the work of more than 300 artists, host 160 classes, workshops and community events and greet 12,000 visitors.

Neighborhoods thrive where the arts are present and we are excited to be a catalyst for the creation of a vibrant and enduring visual arts community. We are powered by members of extraordinary vitality and purpose-driven spirit. We are creative, engaging, inclusive, thought-provoking, and fun.

Please join us by participating in our programs, visiting our gallery and exhibitions, volunteering, donating, or becoming a member. Please join us in this unique opportunity to build an art center that will shape and define your community for decades to come.

artEAST Art Center Programs

We offer multiple programs for learning, creating, exhibiting, and gathering.

UP Front Gallery

Our destination gallery offers artwork produced by 80 local artists. The gallery collection represents masterful design and technique in a wide range of mediums and prices. We enjoy introducing our customers and visitors directly to the artists whose hands create the work.

Workshops

Our growing collection of workshops is designed to create a positive learning experience for the novice or professional student. The workshops are diverse and unique, and change often to offer enticing new experiences that are conveniently scheduled and close to home.

Collective Works & Guest Exhibitions

Our free, non-profit galleries offer fresh, innovative exhibitions each month. We feature work by member artists, guest artists, and partner galleries to bring energy and vitality to the ever-changing presentations.

Community Events & Community Partnerships

We host free art events, artist demonstrations, and open art-making studios. We enthusiastically team up with civic partners on programs ranging from First Friday Art Walks to support of teachers, art docents and students, through opportunities to gather and learn.

To learn how your company can benefit by becoming an artEAST sponsor, see our Sponsorship page or email sponsorship@arteast.org.