Nature Consortium

Nature Consortium is a grassroots, community-based organization whose mission is to connect people, arts and nature. Our goal is to cultivate vibrant communities and inspire people in Puget Sound to become creative leaders through art and environmental action.

Environment: Since 2003, we have been working to restore Seattle's biggest forest, the West Duwamish Greenbelt. Our Urban Forest Restoration Program is a long-term stewardship, education & advocacy project that offers hands-on experience in environmental action. Through this project, we host on-going volunteer work parties to plant native trees and understory and to clear invasive vegetation. Our Saturday work parties feature local musicians to infuse the arts with our environmental work.

Art: Our after-school and summer art classes offer a free and accessible way for youth to express their creativity. These classes serve youth in King County, primarily in low-income communities like Yesler Terrace and Rainier Vista. Offerings include photography, music, dance, organic gardening, nature-themed art, urban art, ceramics, and more.

Community: Every other year, as a culmination of our work, Nature Consortium hosts the Arts in Nature Festival in West Seattle to celebrate the outdoors and showcase local artists and performers. The festival encompasses music, dance, theatre, fire performances, wandering performers, a museum of sound and hands-on art & naturalist activities. Next Festival will be held in August, 2015