For Langley artist Rosie Brouse, moving to Whidbey Island was well worth traveling 2,600 miles.

Brouse’s first solo art show in 40 years opened earlier this month at Lasher Gallery in Whidbey Island Center for the Arts. A painter of Pacific Northwest landscapes, Brouse’s work will be on display through the first week of January.

Brouse moved to Washington state from Louisiana. After a career in engineering, she rejoiced in returning to her roots as an artist. Earlier in life, she attended and graduated from art school in New York City.

She has always felt drawn to the nature of the Pacific Northwest.

“Whidbey has all the landscapes I’ve been wanting – the pastures, the forests, the evergreens,” she said.

She added, “I love it gray, I love it windy, I love it wet. I love the fresh crisp air and the bright colors you get, even the neutral colors you get on rainy days.”

Her show at WICA consists of 33 landscapes and two still life paintings. Her art is available for sale, and some have sold already.

Brouse said she is currently looking for gallery representation. Visit her Instagram, @rosiebrouse, to view more of her work.

Photo provided Rosie Brouse

Photo provided “Cousins Road Lopez”

Photo provided “Clark Lake Park”