Most of Steve Costie’s drawings in this show are based on experimental architecture. That is, architecture that may not (most likely won’t) ever be built; however, given the right circumstances, these works would be constructed of bamboo. The practical aspects of engineering and construction don’t interest Costie—what does, is the drawing itself, independent of real-world concerns. The drawing may be inspired by architectural potential, but it exists as an autonomous entity and that suffices. Drawing is an end in itself.
 

In this show Elizabeth Ockwell’s drawings, watercolors, and multi-process works fall into three categories: architecture, landscape, and zoologically inspired imagery. For over twenty years Ockwell has been going annually to Paris where she draws, among other historical buildings, the Paris Opera House (Palais Garnier). She has come to know all the staff and management of this splendid example of Beaux Arts architecture. The drawings show particular fidelity to the architecture and, from them, the viewer gets a fine understanding of the exceptionally ornate grandeur of the structure. Just as important Ockwell offers the viewer splendid drawings that invite contemplation for more than their architectural subject matter. Ockwell’s landscapes, less well known to Seattle viewers, are of the Skagit Valley, and these works along with her expressive drawings of birds and animal skeletons show the wide breadth of her talent.