About Us
Woodard Bay
Once a logging hub and turn of the century oyster farm, Woodard Bay is now a 922 acre wildlife sanctuary.
Nestled in the quiet inlet of Henderson, the serene aesthetic is both backdrop and inspiration for artist Sarah LeMier.
Woodard Bay is on dxʷsqʷaliʔabš (Nisqually) Land.
Sarah LeMier
Raised in Olympia, WA, artist Sarah LeMier has always been in awe of the South Puget Sound. Never inside for long, LeMier is endlessly curious and inspired by the flora and fauna that surrounds her. What makes her art truly unique is that all raw materials have been foraged from her environment.
“As a principle, all materials have eclipsed their first life. In the relationship between me and the material, I believe it is my responsibility to listen and attend to the narrative of the medium.”
Acting as an interpreter, LeMier’s hands whittle, sand, carve, paint and polish the new stories into existence.
“Since my materials are distinctive and non-dimensional, large tools typically used in fabrication aren’t viable. What is left is a very intimate experience. The slow nature of this process allows for exquisite attention to detail and a way for me to honor the material I am working with.”
Julie Johnson
Raised in Hoodsport, WA on the Hood Canal, artist Julie Johnson was exposed to woodworking early in life. Her family cultivated a love of nature and a vision for beauty beyond the surface. Looking at the essence of the wood, Julie sees the beauty created through the hardships and exposure a tree endures, inspiring her distinct style. Guided by the material’s unique features and organic development, Julie curates truly captivating works-of-art that feel both like home and escape.
Now a resident of Olympia, Julie works alongside her husband, acclaimed woodturner Mike Johnson. A tour of their shop reveals a museum of intoxicating wood waiting to be transformed. As a commitment to sustainability and supporting the local economy, the team of woodworkers take pride in having never cut down a tree or purchased commercially harvested lumber for their art.