It’s gotten so that Cheri O’Brien’s stylistic and ever-so recognizable acrylics and oils are almost iconic of Snohomish County art.
That artwork, in this case a painter with skinny arms wearing a beret, flies like a flag for this year’s Fresh Paint because that painting is the poster art for the 11th annual artists’ festival.
O’Brien’s work is collected throughout Washington state. And beyond. O’Brien’s eclectic paintings are making their way across the continent and stretching into Europe and Japan.
Her poster will be seen throughout the weekend as Fresh Paint takes over Everett’s waterfront. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, dozens of artists will fill theentire length of the Everett Marina Promenade as people stroll along and watch them work or create a piece of art work themselves.
The outdoor art display evokes the style of Paris’ Left Bank. Even artwork that is created on the spot will be for sale.
This year, the Arts Council of Snohomish County, which puts on Fresh Paint, will present glassblowing and ice sculpting for a “Fire and Ice” demonstration.
Nearby will be a fused-glass tent run by artist Janet Foley to offer do-it-yourself art glass projects.
“Every year I have a mother and daughter who show up and wait for me to open,” Foley said. “We’ve got something really unique happening here.”
Foley will also have art projects for the kids.
O’Brien, the artist du jour, is a Pacific Northwest native who lives and paints in the SoLo or Lowell district of Everett. She is a self-taught artist of 19 years who is continually inspired by her many muses, including the river and mountain views from her home and the Palouse region of Eastern Washington.
O’Brien is considered an “artist’s artist” by her peers. She also creates humorous paintings of people and animals in interesting situations.
Besides the art, live music will entertain the crowds. On Saturday, Arturo Rodriguez Latin Jazz will perform on the main stage and, on Sunday, BD &the Rockits will perform.
Arts writer Theresa Goffredo: 425-339-3424 or goffredo@heraldnet.com.
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