


Artists Marilyn Hiestand and Anne Grasteit held a demonstration of eco printing and collage to a full house today at the Blue Whole Gallery. One five year old girl and her dad joined the group, surprising the adult audience. The event was designed to teach eco-conscious individuals the art of printing natural patterns using leaves, flowers and other organic materials. Little did anyone expect that the youngest attendee would steal the show.
Siena Lee is no stranger in the Blue Whole Gallery. She proudly owns two of Marilyn Hiestand’s handmade books. Many of the pages are now filled with Siena’s drawings. This week her dad Shawn came into the gallery inquiring if Siena could attend Marilyn and Anne’s demonstration. His daughter wanted to meet her new favorite artist and see firsthand how the prints are made. “Of course!” replied Janet Piccola the Blue Whole Gallery Board President. “We think art is for everyone, regardless of their age.”



After the demonstration, it was time for volunteers to try the process for themselves. Siena was eager to try, not in the least bit worried about the fact that she was decades younger than most of the other participants.
Under Marilyn’s guidance, she learned how to arrange leaves on a paper bag and apply the natural dyes through steaming. What made the experience even more magical for Siena was meeting Marilyn. She took the time to sit down to talk to Siena and share stories about creating art. Anne and Marilyn also autographed Siena’s book to encourage her budding talent.


Other workshop attendees were equally charmed. “It was heartwarming to see someone so young completely engaged in creating her own special eco printed bag,” said participant Julie Hembree. “Her enthusiasm reminded us of all the joy and wonder that art can bring.”
It seems that the Blue Whole Gallery has found its youngest fan and we are absolutely thrilled.