Creating a Cohesive Space with Art: Custom Yakima Valley Artwork at The Bistro at Summitview
As an artist and the owner of Nuwave Gallery in Ellensburg, I’m always honored when given the opportunity to create art that transforms a space and reflects the values and beauty of the community. Recently, I had the incredible privilege of designing several new pieces for The Bistro at The Terraces in Yakima, which recently underwent a remodel. The experience was both fulfilling and exciting, and I’d love to share a little about the inspiration behind the works, as well as why selecting art from a single artist can result in a beautifully cohesive space.
The Bistro at The Terraces is a beautiful dining venue that serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It was a dream come true to create artwork that would live in such a welcoming and elegant setting. Working with the design team, we discussed how we could enhance the space with art that reflected the natural beauty of Central Washington, and I immediately knew I wanted to draw inspiration from the surrounding landscapes—the Yakima River Canyon, the Stuart Range, and the dynamic seasons that define the region.
The Art: Reflecting the Landscape
The pieces I created for the space are deeply inspired by the land itself, aiming to reflect the richness of the area’s natural beauty and the changing seasons.
The Yakima River Canyon Series
Above the bookcases in the Bistro, I created a large series of paintings that reflect the sweeping vistas of the Yakima River Canyon. The flowing gold accents in the pieces symbolize the wealth and vibrancy of the land, while the sweeping strokes echo the dramatic contours of the canyon. This series serves as a reminder of how truly beautiful it is to live here, and how interconnected we are with the landscape.
The Entryway Piece
As guests enter the Bistro, they are welcomed by a painting of a wide open blue sky, symbolizing the expansive beauty of Central Washington. The white textured hills represent the colder seasons, offering a sense of calm and stillness, while the birds soaring above reflect the arrival of new life. One golden bird stands out in this piece, inspired by the verse from Matthew 10:29-31:
"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care… So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
This verse has always brought me a sense of peace and reassurance, and I wanted to reflect that sense of care and hope through the artwork in this space.
The Dining Room Landscape
In the dining room, I created a neutral-toned piece featuring the Stuart Range—a prominent feature of the region’s rugged landscape. The jagged beauty of the mountains is represented here with soft gradients and calm hues, emphasizing the raw, natural beauty that defines the area. The piece is meant to evoke a sense of awe and admiration for the diverse landscapes we are lucky to have right in our backyard.
The Luminary Series
Finally, in another part of the dining room, I created a series of four abstract works titled "The Luminary Series." These pieces symbolize the fluidity and beauty of life. As we navigate through both the highs and lows of our experiences, these paintings serve as a visual representation of resilience and grace. The flowing forms and gentle movements in the series encourage the viewer to embrace the full spectrum of life, in all its complexities.
Why Buying Art from One Artist Creates a Cohesive Look
One of the aspects of this project that I’m especially excited about is how all of the pieces I created for The Bistro come from the same artist—me! It’s a truly special experience to have a single artist’s work fill an entire space, and it’s something I highly recommend for anyone looking to create a cohesive and harmonious atmosphere in their home or business.
When all of the artwork comes from the same artist, there is an inherent connection between the pieces. The brushstrokes, color palette, and thematic elements are consistent throughout, leading to a beautiful flow from one piece to the next. The viewer’s eye moves seamlessly across the room, connecting the artwork in a way that feels intentional and harmonious.
In the case of The Bistro at The Terraces, the collection of paintings works together to create a sense of unity within the space. Each piece is reflective of the same natural beauty, yet each carries its own distinct personality and story. The colors and textures throughout the space are united by my signature style, which allows each piece to shine while contributing to the overall ambiance.
Whether you are designing a dining room, a cozy living space, or even an entire business, buying art from a single artist can provide a sense of cohesion that ties the room together. It’s also an opportunity to support local artists, like myself, and infuse your space with meaning and personal connection.
Custom Art for Your Space
If you’re inspired by these pieces and are interested in having custom artwork created for your own space, I would love to work with you! At Nuwave Gallery, I specialize in custom commissions that reflect your unique vision, style, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a bold, abstract statement piece or something more serene and natural, I can help create the perfect artwork that brings your space to life.
You can view my portfolio and learn more about custom commissions by visiting my website at erinoostra.com. Additionally, you can explore prints of my existing works, which are available for purchase.
