Seattle artist gives art to Wilcox Grange

Two farm-style paintings by Seattle artist and Colfax High graduate Susan Russell will adorn the walls of the century-old Wilcox Grange Hall.

“I just have so many memories of this old Grange hall,” said Russell.

A 40-year member of the Grange, she donated the paintings to members of the Wilcox Grange last Thursday night, Sept. 23.

“After 40-some years, I’m finally a contributing member of the Grange,” said Russell. “Not just a dues-payer.”

The hall was once the center of the thriving Wilcox community, which was a key stop on the territorial trail between Colfax and Walla Walla.

The Grange was founded in 1903 with 39 members, and still has 45 members. The hall is used for Grange functions, 4H groups sessions and occasionally the Dusty BB Club.

“These are wonderful paintings,” said Grange Master Cindy Ziegler. “I think they’ll be a great addition to our hall.”

The paintings are from Russell’s apron collection – a group of paintings she has made in honor of the multi-faceted garments worn by her mother, aunts and neighbors.

Each of the paintings, with their kaleidoscopic color patterns, contains abstract images of the Palouse.

“I just always loved the Palouse. The colors and contours of the hills - it’s just gorgeous,” she said.