History of
Art Start NW

It started with Mary.

Founder Mary Olsen saw that kids in school were not getting art instruction. She decided to do something about it.

Equipped with brushes, paint and a passionate belief that art is essential, Mary went from class to class introducing students (and their teachers) to materials and techniques. This expanded into a multi-faceted commitment to fine art and the community of Edmonds.

With the completion of the Graphite Arts Center in 2022, Art Start NW has evolved and grown into a broader program of community classes, events, exhibitions, and artist support.

In our Graphite Art Gallery, we host affordable work and display space for emerging and established artists so visitors can experience fine art in juried exhibitions.

We hold classes, workshops, lectures and movies, encouraging the community to awaken their creative interests.

Keep the arts alive in our community.

Your support empowers the next generation of creators and fosters a vibrant local arts community. Here’s how you can help: