Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
There is something about island communities that produces creative residents. Maybe the isolated nature of the place sparks resilience and self-sufficiency, or perhaps islanders just enjoy a quieter pace of life and find inspiration in the water-hemmed beauty. Whatever causes it, Whidbey and Camano Islands certainly have no shortage of creative types, whether they be makers or growers.
Both islands are so lucky to enjoy a long tradition of small farms. While much food eaten today is mass-produced or shipped from far away, it is still easy on these islands to snack on something freshly harvested and hyperlocal. Not only are there fourth-generation farmers on both islands still tending the land their families looked after more than a hundred years ago, but there are even training programs for a new generation seeking the skills to be organic farmers.
This farming heritage is just one way that locals care for the land and for their community, by feeding their neighbors. The farming community is so vibrant they’ve even found ways to band together and support bigger sales amongst themselves by sharing resources. This spirit of collaboration is a very islander mindset and has led to all sorts of delicious partnerships and tasty endeavors. The incredible rise of local craft beverages is evidence of how much appeal and inspiration grows out of these rich soils.
When driving around Whidbey or Camano, you’ll frequently see farmstands that remind you a high concentration of artistic souls live in the vicinity. Not only can you buy fresh blooms, local veggies, backyard eggs or homemade jam-they’ll often be presented to you in the most artistic and whimsical way. Some farm stands are small and simple while others have grown and evolved over many years, but each has a personality. These seasons of growth tie one to the land and lend a story to every bite.
Farmers markets are another collision of agriculture and artistry, and the islands have an abundance of fabulous choices. Leave yourself plenty of time to stay and explore, as each market has its own personality. Whatever tasty temptations end up in your basket, you’re also guaranteed to get an eyeful of art and an earful of music. The creative pieces you can buy for your home are only the beginning. The energy bursting out of island artists means both places host wildly popular annual studio tours, to invite you into the creative process. If you feel moved to try expressing your own creativity, educational artistic opportunities are available in many mediums.
While it can’t be packaged up and brought home, you can hold onto the experience of being moved by performance art during your visit. Amongst the local population of makers and growers live talented musicians, actors, poets and songwriters. Visit one of the many local wineries that also operate as an event venue. What better place to taste local food and drink, hear local music, and be inspired by local art on the walls.
Many of the breweries are also on a mission to collaborate with local farms, and the results are scrumptious. The tap rooms bring residents and visitors together to enjoy live entertainment and maybe a local food truck. In this way, a small restaurant can put itself in two places at once or be a part of local events and celebrations. The restaurateurs of Whidbey and Camano Islands merge the artistry of their food designs with the gift of seasonal produce for mouthwatering results. Look closely, you may even be eating your meal with the creations of a local potter, glassblower, or metal artist. Keep an eye on menus for local wines, beers, ciders or even meads that will tie you back once again to the land. If you can enjoy a local performance or take in a gorgeous island sunset while you imbibe, all the better.
When not using restaurant walls to feast on local art, remember there are endless beautiful galleries to explore. Some are front and center on a main street, and some are tucked away in the forest, ready for you to come find them. There are even plenty of sculpture forests living permanently outside among the foliage.
In the same way local artists are happy to open their studios and share their process, local gardeners can’t resist talking to other gardeners, and several open their private sanctuaries for an annual garden tour. Gardening your plot is an important pastime on the islands, even if you’re not a full-fledged farmer. You’ll note local gardens at several of the schools or growing fresh produce at the food banks. If this activates your green thumb, look out for one of the many plant nurseries and bring a little piece of the islands home to your garden.