Collaborative art at the Understory

Visit the Understory, located beneath the Seattle Spheres, where the latest artists in residence John Smither and Elise Wulff are celebrating Seattle’s natural environment.  Their residencies create space for the public to engage in the creative process while exploring the intersection of art, nature, and sustainability.

Elise Wulff, a Seattle-based artist, has spent nearly a decade crafting art from discarded materials like cardboard, paper bags, and hot glue. Her work explores textures and forms that reflect a deep connection to the natural world, using these accessible materials to push creative boundaries without the constraint of high costs. Wulff’s dedication to repurposing waste shows how ordinary objects can be elevated into meaningful works of art.

John Smither, originally from Chicago, specializes in large-scale drawings, paintings, and mixed-media installations inspired by the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. His current work-in-progress installation, “7th and Lenora,” is also on display at The Understory, inviting visitors to see his creative process in action.

Now through October 5, visitors can contribute to the cardboard tree sculpture by creating their own foliage, which will be incorporated into the piece. Art and nature lovers of all ages are welcome to participate, adding a personal touch to this collaborative art project.

Amazon’s Understory Artist in Residence program, curated by NINE dot ARTS, brings together art, technology, and nature to foster community engagement. Through immersive installations, workshops, and exhibitions, the program offers local artists the opportunity to connect with the public while honing their craft.

The Understory is free to the public and open Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-6pm PT. John Smither will be on-site Thursdays, Fridays, and most Saturdays from 1-5pm PT, and Elise Wulff will be available Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3-6pm PT.