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Spotlight on eastern Washington artists at museum

by CHERYL SCHWEIZER
Staff Writer | February 26, 2018 2:00 AM

MOSES LAKE — An exhibit of the works of eastern Washington artists from a Tri-Cities art cooperative will open this weekend at the Moses Lake Museum & Art Center. The opening reception for the “Cyber Art 509” show is scheduled for 5 p.m. Friday at the museum, 401 S. Balsam St.

The show will be on display through April 20. Admission to the reception and the exhibit are free.

Cyber Art 509 is “an online cooperative of artists from the 509 area code,” mostly the Tri-Cities and surrounding area, according to the group’s website. The group arranges art exhibits in shops and offices, wineries and restaurants.

More than 25 Cyber Art 509 artists have signed up to provide works for the museum show, said organizer Patrick Fleming. “We are a diverse group with a goal of opening opportunities for all visual artists. We have several venues where we exhibit regularly,” he wrote.

“Some of us are old hands at this and plod along with our paintings, drawings, pottery, quilts, photography, metal casting, wood turning, glass melting and jewelry, and anything else you can imagine,” Fleming wrote. “We do not jury and we do not judge. Our goal is to encourage all members to find our own voices and share their visions with the viewers.”

The group’s website features both abstract and figurative art. “Some of us will be showing scenes from the 509 area code of eastern Washington,” Fleming wrote.

Fleming will give a presentation about the group Friday night. “Cyber Art 509: Art is Communication” is scheduled for 7 p.m. Among other things, Fleming will talk about the group’s founding in 1996, and the role of artists and art.

The museum’s opening receptions also include the “Adult Swim,” a craft project for adults. It’s a take on the swimming pool practice of setting aside a time for adults.

“Torn paper landscapes” are the craft for Friday. Participants tear sheets of colored paper to make collaged landscapes.

Light refreshments are served during the evening, and there is an opening night discount on artwork. The discount is 20 percent for members, 10 percent for non-members.

People who want more information can contact the museum, 509-764-3830.