art alley @ Pybus

 

 

Jan and Michele had their first joint show at Art Alley in 2023. When approached about a joint show in 2025, they quickly decided to exhibit paintings that featured their favorite color: Pink. The original idea for a pink show evolved over time. Jan’s paintings are full of vibrant colors, including many shades of pink. Michele’s fondness for the color appeared in both the subjects she painted and small details within the paintings. Eventually it became a running joke. Michele (the student) would ask “What would look good here?” And Jan (the teacher) would respond “Why not add some pink?” As their paintings began to fill the walls of the studio they noticed a theme. They were surrounded by warm colors and cheerful subjects — pink peach blossoms, landscapes with a hint of a pink sunrise or sunset — colors that made them smile. Their hope with this show is to bring a sense of joy and playfulness to the walls of Art Alley and give visitors to Pybus Public Market and Art Alley a reason to smile.  

 

Jan Cook Mack grew up in the United States and Taiwan, and received her Fine Arts degree from Bennington College in Vermont. She established herself in New York City before moving to Eastern Washington in 1986. Jan is known for her sweeping mountain landscapes, her depictions of gently rolling hills covered in blooming orchards, her still life paintings of fruit and flowers and her portraits of friends and family. Visit her online at www.jancookmack.com.  

Michele Knutson grew up in Wenatchee and graduated from the University of Washington. She began painting with Jan in 2018 and has found a way to express her creative energies at Jan’s studio. She often paints whimsical animals, fanciful flowers and fruits that are inspired by memories of playing and working in the cherry orchard next to her family home. With Jan’s instruction and support she hopes to continue evolving as an artist. Michele can be reached via email: micheleknutson@gmail.com