Flywheel Art Gallery: A New Cultural Hub in Hoodsport

Mason County, WA - August 5, 2024 - Jan Morris has set out to re-invigorate Hoodsport as an arts destination with the opening of her new venture, the Flywheel Art Gallery.  The new gallery will be following in the footsteps of Hoodsport’s Sunshine Creations and joining Shelton’s new movement toward arts and culture.  Community members have been encouraging.   “Lisa Leggett has been a wonderful help with the creative direction of the gallery,” Jan notes. 

 The gallery will also be an offsite distillery tasting room for the Hardware Distillery, offering cocktails that can be enjoyed while surrounded by art and the beauty of the Hood Canal.   Ready-to-drink options for home use will also be available. 

 The gallery's grand opening is scheduled for August 30th, featuring an all-day event, and a 4 pm  ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce.  There will be door prizes, music, and libations. 

 Flywheel Art Gallery aims to emulate the success of art-centric communities like Port Townsend and LaConner.   Jan is optimistic about the gallery's potential to boost local tourism and attract visitors to Hoodsport.    The town of Hoodsport has a small footprint for commercial building space, but there are great opportunities for art festivals at the Port of Hoodsport and in town of Hoodsport.

 Jan is already considering future collaborations and partnerships with local businesses and artists, having received support from the local community.  "I hope to do collaborations in the future, but we just started.

 A key mission of Flywheel Art Gallery is to support emerging artists, providing them with opportunities to showcase their work and teach art.  Jan plans to involve local artists and businesses, including the brewery, in her vision.  

 "Artists can hold classes in the brewery tasting room and generate additional income," Jan explains. She is particularly interested in attracting younger artists, showcasing pieces like her great niece's artwork, and eventually expanding the gallery's offerings.

Jan Morris hopes that Flywheel Art Gallery will become a cornerstone of Hoodsport's cultural and economic landscape, bringing together artists, tourists, and community members. As Jan Morris's vision unfolds, the gallery is set to inspire and elevate the local arts scene, making Hoodsport a vibrant destination for creativity and artistic expression.

Video by Jeff Slakey with Explore Hood Canal.