Pop-Up: Tuesday, June 2nd – Sunday, June 7th | Celebration: Tuesday, June 2nd from 3PM-6:30PM
Celebrate the imagination and creativity of our community’s youngest artists at Blooming Artists: The Creative Start Showcase & Celebration! From June 2-7, the Esther Webster Gallery at the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center will transform into a colorful pop-up exhibition featuring the artwork of more than 250 K-2nd grade students from Franklin, Jefferson, and Dry Creek Elementary. Throughout the school year, the students featured in this pop-up showcase have worked with Port Angeles Fine Arts Center staff, and guest teaching artists, through the Creative Start Program, exploring how art connects with science. Students have created art that explores the wonderful world of insects, pollination, habitats and ecosystems, plants, and soil. The result is a vibrant, interdisciplinary collection of artwork that reflects big ideas and playful creative experimentation. These young artists will have their work displayed alongside professional pieces in the current Field Notes exhibition, giving them a true gallery experience.This event is open to everyone, including families, friends, neighbors, and anyone who wants to support and be inspired by the next generation of artists and innovators. Come be part of a week filled with color, curiosity, and celebration, and help our young artists shine!
Kick things off at our free, family-friendly Creative Start Celebration on Tuesday, June 2 from 3PM-6:30 PM, where art, science, and hands-on discovery come together at a lively event designed for all ages.
Enjoy hands-on activities, explore imaginative artwork, and help shine a spotlight on the young artists who are learning, experimenting, and growing right here on the Olympic Peninsula. Students, teachers, and local leaders will be part of the festivities, making it a true community celebration! You do not need to have a student in the exhibition to join the fun. Just showing up is a powerful way to support arts education, curiosity, and the importance of creative learning for kids. Bring your family and invite your friends, this free event is open to everyone! Come celebrate, get inspired, and help cheer on the next generation of thinkers and creators.Take part in a free art station designed for all ages to enjoy.
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Port Angeles Fine Arts Center staff have prepared art activities. Come back soon for more details.
Listen to engaging stories shared by community members.
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Hear stories from students in the Creative Start Program, Mandy Miller the Education Director at Port Angeles Fine Arts Center, and from Carmen-Watson Charles, a respected community leader.
Enjoy free delicious and nutritious snacks.
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Snacks will be provided during the Celebration made from ingredients in the school gardens.
Experience hands-on learning with community experts.
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Learn about our most important pollinator at the bee station, get up close with insects through our interactive insect station, and explore the world of birds with our Burke Museum Travel Kit.
Grab a free giveaway from WSU Extension.
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WSU Extension will be offering guests free seed packs.
Encouraging innovation in early learning-through the arts!
Creative Start supports and expands arts integration efforts in early learning (preschool through 3rd grade) communities. It aims to bridge the opportunity gap for Washington’s youngest learners. Creative Start programming includes grants, professional learning opportunities, and resource development to support students, teachers, and their families.
Creative Start program goals:
How can I support this program? Expand
There are many different ways you can support the Creative Start Program at Port Angeles Fine Arts Center:
What schools are involved? Expand
During the 2025-2026 school year, over 250 students from Franklin, Jefferson, and Dry Creek Elementary have been a part of the Creative Start Program. These students range from kindergarten to second grade, and all take part in the interdisciplinary curriculum developed by Education Director Mandy Miller.
How do I buy tickets for the Creative Start Celebration? Expand
Entrance to the Creative Start Showcase & Celebration are both free! No tickets are required to attend. Donations are encouraged to support the continuation of this program. Port Angeles Fine Arts Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and relies on the support of the community to uplift its programs.
Who can attend the Creative Start Celebration & Showcase? Expand
Everyone is encouraged to attend. With students, teachers, and community leaders as special guests, it is the goal of the community to show up for them in celebration. Attending this event is an impactful way to demonstrate your support for arts education, curiosity, and the importance of creative learning for kids on the Olympic Peninsula.
What other opportunities does PAFAC offer youth? Expand
Port Angeles Fine Arts Center offers youth programming all year long. From free community festivals to afterschool art clubs there is something for everyone.
Explore Port Angeles Fine Arts Center’s Opportunities:
Please reach out to Mandy at education@pafac.org with any questions.