In the spring of 1974, seven artists formed the Palouse Watercolor Socius. All were students of Alfred Dunn at the University of Idaho. Of the original group, Kay Montgomery and Linda Wallace remain active members. PWS’ purpose is to give watercolorists the opportunity to learn from each other, exhibit their work, and promote an appreciation of watercolor painting within the community. Our members are a diverse group living in the Palouse region of northern Idaho and eastern Washington, as far away as Spokane.

In June 2013 we are hosting a four-state juried competition and show in collaboration with the Inland Northwest Watercolor Society and the University of Idaho Prichard Art Gallery in Moscow, Idaho. We are excited about the show and have received numerous inquiries from regional artists.

The Avista Corporation is one of our major sponsors. There will be at least $3,000 in cash ($1,000 for first place), a $500 purchase award from the Latah Federal Credit Union, plus merchandise awards. Other generous donations have been received from Archer Photography, Frontier Communications, Gritman Medical Center and Rex Cosgrove's State Farm Insurance.

The juror will be well-known Northwest artist and former gallery owner, Nancy Taylor Stonington. See the “Calendar” tab for a prospectus and more information. Ms. Stonington will also give a watercolor workshop on June 15-17 here in Moscow; see "About PWS" and the calendar for details.

We hold monthly (first Wednesday) and quarterly (third Saturday) meetings. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss ongoing projects, critique members’ work and offer informal workshops. PWS has a lending library of art magazines and instructional books and DVDs.  We sponsor an annual beginners’ watercolor workshop for community members as well as workshops by regional artists. In the summer, our members participate in plein air outings and events such as the Lentil Festival in Pullman, Washington.

PWS members maintain ongoing exhibits at several venues on the Palouse and in the Lewiston-Clarkston valley. Additionally, we participate in annual shows during Moscow’s ArtWalk and at the Dahmen Artisans’ Barn in Uniontown, Washington. Click on the “Our Members” tab to see biographies and examples of their work.

An innovative rental program featuring participating members’ framed paintings has mutually benefited artists and renters. Patrons may choose to rent a painting for $35 for a period of three months, or to purchase the work. Click on the “PWS Rental Program” tab to view images of paintings that are currently available.

Each fall, in cooperation with the Latah Arts and Culture Committee, PWS offers a beginners’ workshop to members of the community. It is usually taught by a PWS member with years of experience as an artist and teacher. The workshop is provided for a nominal fee, and includes all materials, to encourage those without previous experience to give watercolor painting a try.

Our meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month in Moscow, Idaho at 10:00 a.m., and visitors are always welcome. If you are interested in joining PWS, for more information please send e-mail to pwsartists@gmail.com, or click here for a membership form.

We hope to hear from you!