Building a Creative District: Lisa Bernhardt on Art, Advocacy, and Coupeville

Today on Local Whidbey, we’re welcoming someone who has been quietly (and not-so-quietly) transforming Coupeville into a cultural cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest—Lisa Bernhardt, the Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Art School and administrator of the Coupeville Creative District.

Lisa isn’t just running an art school—she’s running a movement. Under her leadership, the Pacific Northwest Art School has become a hub for creative learning and artistic innovation, drawing talent from across the region. But she’s also been working behind the scenes on something big: helping Coupeville gain official designation as a Creative District through the Washington State Arts Commission.

Now, if you're wondering what a Creative District is and why it matters—don’t worry, we’re going to get into that. Because it turns out, creating one isn’t just about pretty murals or art walks. It’s about building a lasting infrastructure for the arts, encouraging economic growth, attracting cultural tourism, and making space for local creativity to thrive.

I’m Magsy, and this is Local Whidbey—the podcast where we talk to the movers, makers, and cultural catalysts shaping the spirit of this island.

Let’s dive into creativity, community, and Coupeville with Lisa Bernhardt.

 

Check out the Pacific Northwest Art School and Coupeville Creative District.

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