Seattle Design 100+
Pratt Fine Arts Center
Artist Vaughn Bell (whose 2006 acrylic and plant, "Biossphere for Two" is shown at left) is a featured artist at Pratt in February and March 2008
BY
Lisa Kennedy
PHOTOGRAPHY
courtesy Pratt Fine Arts Center

The nonprofit arts education and resource center founded by Seattle Parks and Recreation, Pratt Fine Arts Center has been a force majeure on the art scene here for more than 30 years. “Pratt is an amazing resource for all levels of the creative community,” says glass artist Ginny Ruffner. “There is truly nothing like Pratt anywhere near here—maybe in the world!”

Dedicated to promoting creative development and artistic engagement in the community, and to financially support those who need it, Pratt offers art classes in a rich multidisciplinary environment. For emerging and established artists, there are master-artist intensives and visiting-artist programs, as well as access to a deep reservoir of technical expertise. Pratt’s facilities in central Seattle include specialized equipment for printmaking, jewelry and metals, sculpture and glass art.

The interaction Pratt affords between working artists and students is one of its special sources of impact, along with its community reach via events such as workshops, exhibits and lectures. The center annually serves more than 3,000 students and 500 working artists. Instructors and students have included Lino Tagliapietra, Marita Dingus, Gerry Tsutakawa, Ramona Solberg and Dante Marioni.

Pratt Fine Arts Center
1902 S. Main St., (206) 328-2200