The color theme for the Oct. 3 First Friday Art Walk in Sequim is orange. The Art Walk is a fun and free self-guided tour of local art venues in Sequim on the First Friday of every month from 5-8 p.m.

Some of the highlights are listed here:

Blue Whole Gallery at 129 W. Washington St. features “All Things Weird and Wonderful” with Melissa Doyel and Jennifer Rose.

As a bead artist, Jennifer Rose finds inspiration from nature, living in the Northwest, and Native culture. She uses many different types of beads and techniques.

“I’m constantly finding different ways to combine things from nature, like feathers, bone, shells, and fur, into my work,” she said.

Doyel is a retired eBay project manager and has been involved in some form of art her entire life.

“I feel compelled to paint the beauty, the unusual, or the weird that I find out hiking or traveling,” she said. “I want to express the same feelings I experienced so the viewer of my work has the same reaction, whether the subject is weird or wonderful!”

She paints in both watercolor and acrylic mediums.

The A. Milligan Art Studio & Gallery at 520 N. Sequim Ave. hosts Sequim artist Suzan Noyes and jewelry maker Dee Shire as the engaging Chiaroscuro Exhibit continues with new pieces added to the show.

‘Chiaroscuro’ is an Italian term which literally means ‘light-dark’. Using strong contrasts to create a sense of volume, depth, and dramatic effect, it describes how the artist orchestrates values to model form and evoke certain moods in their paintings.

Suzan says,” I so appreciate how this exhibit emphasizes light and dark, with the myriad of painted effects that push street scenes and simple florals into dramatic focus. Though I’ve created quite a few florals for this show, I don’t often concentrate on them as subject matter, but La Reina, (a featured work in the exhibit) was one compelling iris that delivered my fix for extreme light and shadow. That ‘wow’ factor that I often chase with my photography spirals a simple flower into something I can’t ignore: intense light and shade – shape, pattern and color. I’m driven to paint my own version and share what it is about my subject that has so moved me: “It’s why I paint”.

“I’m excited to revisit this dramatic style of creating”, says artist and gallery owner, Anne Millgan, “It’s been years since I’ve etched a work into a piece of deep black granite and even longer since I’ve worked in pure charcoal, my first love. There is no choice with those two mediums, if the work is going to have the kind of life about it that I’m trying to convey, unless I make good use of the chiaroscuro technique. Though I use the idea to some extent in most of my pastel paintings, I’m thrilled to be bringing my artistic journey full circle and delve back into the depths of the concept with this exhibit; to capture that ethereal quality that brings mystery and life to the canvas so well, and invites the viewer to immerse themselves into the scene”.

This month, the gallery introduces the creations of jewelry maker Dee Shire, whose intriguing pieces are a lovely compliment to the Chiaroscuro Exhibit. Dee is a Sequim snowbird and a self-taught artisan. She travels the world in search of rare artifacts and says she chooses her pieces based on their uncommon beauty: pieces that she feels will be shared and cherished as uniquely special adornments. Dee’s works are inspired by nature, anthropology, paleontology and the talents and creations of other artists. Her jewelry has been sold throughout the U.S. and Western Europe for the past 25 years.

From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County’s Sequim Habitat Boutique Store at 213 E. Washington St. has fabulous live music of Reckless Dove!

A Sequim Art Walk special event is a return to Pondicherri, 121 E. Washington St., for artist Kathy Nichols that includes greeting cards and prints, among other things. From 4:30-6:30 p.m., Nichols will demonstrate how to create your own fall pumpkin/leaves design. You are also invited to participate for free and create one of your own. Art supplies are provided. RSVPs are appreciated, but walk-ins are welcome. Call 360-681-0954 to RSVP.

Alder Wood Bistro at 139 W Alder St. has artisan wood-fired local, seasonal, organic food in the heart of Sequim. While you dine, check out their walls filled with unique art by local artists.

Warm and Spicy! Sequim Spice and Tea at 139 W Washington St. has unique art including glass, pottery, illustration, and photography of local artists. You can also find artful, creative tea blends, colorful and fun teapots and cups, and cheerful culinary gifts.

From 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Rainshadow Café at 157 West Cedar Street has live music with Dawn & Steve. Come sing your favorite songs with a full menu and drinks to enjoy. Some dancing is encouraged too.

The City of Sequim Arts Commission showcases the “Northwest Elements” art exhibit at the Sequim Civic Center, 152 W. Cedar St. This juried exhibition celebrates the raw beauty, cultural richness, and elemental forces that define the Pacific Northwest. Inspired by the region’s iconic landscapes, towering evergreens, misty coastlines, mountain peaks, and rain-washed skies, the exhibition honors the natural and cultural elements that shape life in the Northwest.

La Petite Maison Blanche at 213 E Washington St. features artwork, uniquely curated gifts, treats throughout the shop, and culinary goodies to add zest to your life. Explore the support of local artists and performers, like Katy Lily, at this eye candy, delightful shop.

Sofie’s Flowers at 127 W Washington St. provides growing and lively artful creations from local artists and decorative pieces reflecting the coziness of the fall season.

Forage Gifts & Northwest Treasures at 121 W Washington Street features local artists and inspired gifts by our state and the Olympic Peninsula. Check out their store Fall Refresh!

The River House Bakery & Cafe at 120 W. Bell Street will be serving a limited dinner menu from 5-8 p.m. The café also features local artists.

Pacific Mist Books at 122 West Washington Street shares the love of reading and offers an eclectic mix of new and vintage books, cards, and gifts including local authors and artists.

Over the Fence at 118 E. Washington St. hosts local artists in their amazing shop. You can explore your own creative force with pop-up art making!

Pacific Pantry at 229 S Sequim Avenue is open until 7 p.m. and hosts a rotation of local artists.

Western Wanderer at 108 W Washington St. hosts live music, decorative, storytelling apparel, and creative conversations.

Soup in the Alley at 138 W Washington features a rotation of local artists, live music, and treats.

Locally created gifts don Cedarbrook Lavender Gift Shop at 120 W Washington Street has delightful farm fresh lavender creations, treats, and inspired vintage décor items.

Want to participate as a venue or artist on the Official First Friday Art Walk Sequim Map, listing, and website, please contact Renne Emiko Brock at 360-460-3023 or renneemiko@gmail.com If you are an artist of any media, please get your information to Brock for publicity and opportunities.

To create inclusion between venues, artists, and audience, everyone is encouraged to participate in the Art Walk’s monthly themes as a fun community activity in any creative form they wish to express it. January is silver, February is red, March is green, April is pink, May is aqua, June is white, July is purple, August is yellow, September is blue, October is orange, November is brown, and December is gold.

Please join our Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/sequimartwalk.

Visit SequimArtWalk.com to download and print your own map and a full list of special events and links.

Photo courtesy of Davis Willis/ David Willis’ “Pumpkin 25” will be on display at Sequim Museum & Arts during the First Friday Art Walk as part of the Fourth Annual Strait from the Artists Studio Tour Preview Exhibition.

Photo courtesy Deborah Anne Harrison/ “Gayatri Fountain” by Deborah Anne Harrison will be on display at Sequim Museum & Arts, 544 N. Sequim Ave., during the First Friday Art Walk for a preview of the Fourth Annual Strait from the Artists Studio Tour Preview Exhibition with the studio tour set for November 8 and 9 studio tour invites you to engage directly with the artists and the spaces that they create for an inspiring, self-guided adventure through art.