Click here to read a two-page pdf article from the Whidbey Weekly newspaper that chronicles the start of the “Inside Out” Art with Inmates program in 2023 at the Island County Jail. Here are a few quotes from the article:

• “I proposed bringing in professional artists who would volunteer their time, come up with a curriculum and come in when allowed,” [Bernhardt] said. “So we have a test/pilot program. We have two local teachers who I go with each time. There’s only room for five participants at a time and they don’t want to stop.”
• “I know the power of art,” [Herrild] said. “It really is powerful and it’s really good for all of our brains, kids and adults. It doesn’t matter if it’s good – it’s about the process.”
• “I love teaching art to people who haven’t had access before and find joy in it,” she said. “Whether it’s kids or adults, it doesn’t matter. These men are so appreciative of us being there doing it with them, it’s easy to feel good about doing it. They’re excited. They want to be there.”

 
The Pacific NorthWest Art School has been offering exceptional visual arts education to our community and beyond for 35+ years. We want to heartily thank all those who have supported (and continued to support) us through the years. Only 70% of tuition covers our operating costs. We depend on fundraising, individual donations and memberships to help cover the remaining 30%. Won’t you please consider donating? The Pacific NorthWest Art School is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Your donation is tax deductible to the full extent of the law; please consider us in your estate planning.