It is with the greatest of sadness that I feel I must publicly ask what has happened to our beloved Vashon Allied Arts. There is an overwhelming feeling that we have lost it. Those of us who have a long and loving relationship with the arts on Vashon want to know what happened. Those who have worked, donated time and care for the Blue Heron performances, plays, dance, readings, flowers, food and monthly art exhibits. The family of artists who found the doors open, the lights on and suggestions from that community welcomed.

The moving of the cultural face of Vashon crafts persons and artists, the Heron’s Nest, to a central retail position in town 23 years ago. We want to know why the craftspeople were not apprised in a timely manner of the closure of the Nest. Do you really think pop-ups in your living room can compare?

The feeling that VCA has abandoned its local artists and is now scrambling to fill the void is overwhelming. Outreach on all levels seems beyond their capacity. You have forgotten whom you serve. This is an island, we are all connected, and our culture is specific. We are disconsolate.

— George Wright