Cascadia Art Museum's Annual Gala Celebrates a Decade of Excellence

The Cascadia Art Museum's annual gala was a vibrant celebration of the museum's rich tradition and its unwavering dedication to showcasing the artistic heritage of the Pacific Northwest. The event, held at the home of Lindsey and Carolyn Echelbarger, was a testament to the community's unwavering support and the museum's steadfast commitment to preserving and promoting the region's cultural legacy.

Elevating the Northwest's Art and Design Tradition

Putting Talent on Full Display

The gala was a visual feast, with plein air artists Joyce Hester, Ron Stocke, and Andy Eccleshall showcasing their exceptional skills. As guests mingled, they had the opportunity to witness the artists at work, adding the final touches to their original creations that would later be auctioned off. The energy and excitement of the live painting sessions added an immersive and engaging element to the event, allowing attendees to appreciate the artistic process firsthand.

Bidding for a Cause

The live auction was a high-stakes affair, with guests eagerly competing to secure coveted items ranging from original artworks to exclusive experiences. The bidding was fast and furious, with the crowd's enthusiasm only amplifying the thrill of the moment. One particularly noteworthy highlight was the auctioning of Lindsey Echelbarger's tie, a tradition that has become a much-anticipated part of the event.

Celebrating Community and Camaraderie

The gala was not just about the art and the auction; it was a celebration of the Cascadia community. Prominent figures, such as Edmonds Mayor Mike Rosen and his wife Sharon Howard, mingled with art enthusiasts, museum supporters, and local luminaries. The event provided a platform for connections and conversations, fostering a sense of shared purpose and dedication to the museum's mission.

Honoring Cascadia's Milestones

As the event unfolded, Lindsey Echelbarger, the founder and president of the Cascadia Art Museum, took the stage to share an exciting announcement. In 2025, the museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary, a significant milestone that speaks to the institution's unwavering commitment to the arts and its impact on the community. Echelbarger's words were a heartfelt reminder of the museum's journey and the invaluable contributions of its supporters.

Empowering the Next Generation

Cascadia Art Museum Executive Director Sally Ralston provided an insightful overview of the institution's accomplishments over the past year. She highlighted the museum's Cascadia Arts for Schools program, which had engaged more than 800 students, and the impressive growth in visitor numbers and membership. These achievements underscored the museum's steadfast dedication to nurturing the next generation of art enthusiasts and preserving the region's artistic heritage.

A Night to Remember

Despite the occasional drizzle of rain, the gala's spirit remained undampened. Guests enthusiastically participated in the festivities, from purchasing raffle tickets to bidding on the silent and live auction items. The energy and enthusiasm of the attendees were palpable, reflecting the deep-rooted connection they shared with the Cascadia Art Museum and its mission.As the event drew to a close, the organizers expressed their optimism that the evening had surpassed the previous year's remarkable fundraising efforts. The Cascadia Art Museum's annual gala had once again proved to be a resounding success, a testament to the community's unwavering support and the museum's unwavering commitment to celebrating the rich artistic legacy of the Pacific Northwest.