First Friday art walk is Feb. 2

Mercer Island’s downtown galleries will host their First Friday art and wine events on Feb. 2.

From 4-7 p.m., Clarke and Clarke Art and Artifacts will exhibit “an exploration of abstract art,” with a preview of three works by its featured artist in March, Matt Timo.

The selection will include pieces by Hodaka Yoshida, Ron Strong, Ian McLeod, Rikio Takahashi, Russell Frost, Valaree Cox, Jong-Taek Woo, Anne Gardner and Brent Rogers, and encompass a variety of mediums including Sumi (ink on paper), oil on canvas, mixed media on paper, mixed media on canvas, encaustics, acrylic on paper and engravings.

See www.ethnoarts.com for more.

Suzanne Zahr’s SZ Gallery will feature “Nature’s Poetry,” a collection of oil paintings by the artist Gitte Peters, at its art and wine reception from 5-8 p.m. on Feb. 2. The pieces will be available for purchase until the end of March at a gallery discount of 30 percent. Read more here.

Craft fair on Feb. 3 supports Room Circus

Islanders are hosting a Valentine’s Giving from the Heart craft fair on Feb. 3 to support Room Circus Medical Clowning, a nonprofit committed to alleviating the isolation and stress of hospitalized children and their families through the healing art of laughter and play.

The open house “FUNdraiser” will be from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2440 63rd Ave. SE, and will feature handmade gifts by local indie crafters just in time for Valentine’s Day, Super Bowl and Mother’s Day gifting.

Participants in the jewelry trunk show are Lucente Studio, Luscious Lobe, Semilla Designs, Kilt Pin Brooches and Betty’s Beads. Other items include handmade Valentine cards, wine glass charms, Glassybaby candle holders, Bobette’s kitchen items, Mercer Greens oils and vinegars and Connie’s Customs. Additional vendors are Coco Beza, Abbe Winery and Island Treats.

Refreshments will be provided. About 10 to 20 percent of vendor proceeds will be donated to Room Circus. See www.roomcircus.org/support-us for more.

Caruccio’s to host Feb. 2 pop-up

Aaron Tekulve, chef owner of pop-up restaurant and private dining company Surrell, is partnering with Caruccio’s in Mercer Island to bring his food to the community and offer a new dining opportunity.

He will offer a seven-course tasting menu, with wine pairing, exploring the food of the Pacific Northwest showcasing amazing farmers and purveyors. More information and tickets can be found at www.surrellseattle.com/popup.

Mercer Island’s Clarke and Clarke Art and Artifacts will exhibit “an exploration of abstract art” at its First Friday art and wine event. Photo courtesy of Ginny Clarke