by Kelli Samson for OLY ARTS
Growing up in Bothell, Steve Bylsma loved drawing the natural world. The 2011 Evergreen State College graduate and freelance artist continually brings art and nature together.
Bylsma enjoys creative problem solving, so his set-design work for Olympia Family Theater has been a perfect fit. “I generally enjoy designing sets that have some sort of natural-environment element,” shares the designer of OFT’s notable How the Slug Stole Solstice set. “The OFT community is full of people doing what they love,” he says, “and I count myself very fortunate to be able to collaborate with the great folks that work there.”
Bylsma’s installation for Arts Walk is hosted by the South Sound Estuarium. “My aim,” he explains, “was to create a piece that supported their mission by portraying some of the unique biodiversity that is present in our local environment.” The miniature diorama will feature the flora and fauna of Puget Sound.
What: natural-history habitat
Where: South Sound Estuarium,
309 State Ave. NE, Olympia
When: 5-10 p.m. Friday, April 28;
noon – 8 p.m. Saturday, April 29
How much: free
Learn more: 360-915-0773 | South Sound Estuary Association