Olympia Arts Commission approves local artists for the 2025 Arts Walk 

At its Dec. 12 meeting, the Olympia Arts Commission approved the recommended local artists who will create posters for the 2025 Olympia Arts Walk events.  

Following the selection process, Lynnette Charters has been chosen as the spring cover artist. Mikaela Shafer is securing the fall cover artist position, while Megan Teutschel was named as the alternate. 

The jury panel, which included the fall 2024 Arts Walk cover artist Eileen Bochsler, Washington Center for the Performing Arts Gallery Coordinator China Star, and Arts Commissioner Andrew Repcik, reviewed 32 applications. The jurors evaluated the submissions based on their alignment with the selection criteria and potential support to the event's marketing goals effectively goals. 

Cover artists 

Charters' previous works include the "Matilda Effect" series. This series celebrates women's often overlooked historical achievements, painting on repurposed household objects to provide context of how women are traditionally seen and their trailblazing realities.  

The "Matilda Effect" was a label created by historian Margaret W. Rossiter, referencing suffragist and columnist Matilda Joslyn Gage (1826-98), who publicized the work of important but forgotten women in history.  

A member of the Hopi tribe, Shafer's art is deeply rooted in her indigenous identity and focuses on matrilineal storytelling, healing and indigenous narratives. Her mixed-media textile paintings incorporate organic materials, reflecting the traditions of her matrilineal-led culture where stories are passed down through women. 

Mikaela Shafer's previous art works.

JOLT STAFF PHOTO VIA ZOOM

"While my work may not be considered 'traditional' art in the conventional sense, it is very much grounded in my indigenous identity," Shafer explained. 

Teutschel's work explores anatomy, ecology, and humanity's relationship with nature.

"Human hearts, flowers, and mushrooms are heavily featured in my work. I hope to show people the beauty that they are made of, surrounded by, and ultimately, a part of," Teutschel said.

Megan Teutschel's previous artworks.

JOLT STAFF PHOTO VIA ZOOM

Her mediums are acrylic, watercolor and micron pen.  

According to Stephanie Johnson, the city's Arts Program Manager, the Arts Commission will review proposals at their January meetings.  

Olympia Arts Walk celebrates the work of local artists through the design of event poster art for the spring and fall events.

The city of Olympia commissions selected artists to create new, original works for the covers of the Arts Walk 2025 maps and event posters. The artworks will be featured prominently in various promotional materials for the 2025 Arts Walk events, including digital and print publications.