He(ART) of Bellevue Weekly Spotlight: Alison Morse, Dreambird Candles, and More

The Bellevue Downtown Arts Market is a vibrant event that celebrates the artistic talent and creativity of over 110+ artists. The Arts Market is a great way for these amazing artists show-off their incredible work. Get to know these artists better with this week's He(ART) of Bellevue spotlight featuring five exceptional artists who want to spread joy through color and creativity.

Alison Morse
Artist: Alison Morse

What type of art do you create?

I create hand fabricated metal and gemstone jewelry.

Where do you draw inspiration from when creating your art?

My jewelry is inspired by the patterns and materials found in nature.

What is your latest project?

My latest project is a collection of botanical pieces, with tiny flowers and leaves paired with gemstones.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

Coming from California to participate in the Bellevue Arts Market each year reminds me of the community that supports me here. I grew up on the Eastside and returning to this market as an adult is a fun and special experience. I love seeing old friends, family and familiar faces, as well as making new connections.

Dreambird Candles
Artist: Cathy Johnson

What type of art do you create?

I create vegan coconut-apricot soy wax creme blend candles and basswood laser cut magnets and art

How long have you been practicing your type of art?

I have been making candles for over three years and practiced laser cutting over a year.

What is your latest project?

My latest project is making vessel-free rainbow candles. I'm also working on year of the dragon, ocean, and pacific northwest themed laser cuts.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

I am very passionate about the use of bright colors and positivity in my artwork. My goal is to make you smile when you enter my booth. I enjoy sharing my art with others to enjoy.

Inkstone Art & Design
Artist: Eliana Sansburn

What type of art do you create?

I create traditional Watercolor and pen pieces depicting primarily West Coast scenes, flora, and fauna.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

In 7th grade, I enjoyed weekly art classes from a lovely retired friend in our community. She gave me a great foundation on which to build. From there I just picked up my pencil, pen, or paint brush and kept creating!

What is your latest project?

I am working my way through painting the stratovolcanoes of the Cascades (Mt. St Helen’s next up!), as well as, some of my favorite plants, pinecones, and trees.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

I hope my art is an inspiration for people to want to protect the wild spaces we share and to get out exploring as often as possible. There’s nothing quite like a breath of fresh mountain air for perspective.

KT Photography LLC
Artist: Kareen Torgerson

What type of art do you create?

I take photos of landscapes, old buildings, and anything else that catches my eye.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

I began to take a serious interest in photography after I purchased a used Canon AE1 from a co-worker. I didn't know how to operate it, so took weekend classes from a photographer who specialized in outdoor photography. I began to photograph various events, particularly plays, some weddings, senior pictures, and other public gatherings.

Where do you draw inspiration from when creating your art?

In 2010, I traveled to Scotland and discovered how much I enjoyed taking pictures of the beautiful landscapes, centuries-old buildings, and nature in the United Kingdom. I enjoy creating pictures that impart a sense of peace. Many of my photos were taken in Scotland, Ireland, England, and Wales (and even in my yard!).

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

I am so excited to participate in the Bellevue Downton Arts Market this year! While working at a law firm in downtown Bellevue for quite a few years, I was able to see all the variety of beautiful artwork created by so many people. They inspired me to move out of my comfort zone and into the wonderful world of art! I am so looking forward to being a part of this celebration and I trust you will enjoy my creations, whether its landscapes of sheep farms, castles, old-world buildings in far-away places, or beautiful flowers!

MALA Glass Art
Artist: Megan Lim

What type of art do you create?

I create blown glass garden art in bright and unusual shapes to brighten up those NW gardens.

How long have you been practicing your type of art?

I have been blowing glass for 20 years and creating garden art for 10 years.

Where did you learn or develop your technique?

Went to school at Virginia Commonwealth University to start my journey then moved here to hone my skills with the many artists around the NW.

What is something that you would like to share with the Bellevue community?

Bright colors remind me of a simple time, an innocent time of childhood, happiness and fun. I want my glass work to do the same, invoke happiness, a smile with its bright colors and odd shapes.

The 2024 Bellevue Downtown Arts Market is generously supported by Amazon and the City of Bellevue.

See All 110+ Artists

This blog is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.