Melissa Bixby and Sue Stanton are the featured artists for the Port Townsend Gallery in September.

Bixby, born and raised in Soldotna, Alaska, has been fascinated with sea creatures since she was a child. Trips to the beach and tidal pools in places where nature was nearly untouched — such as Alaska’s China Poot Bay, Cook Inlet and Seward — were awe-inspiring.

She earned a master’s degree in fine arts in sculpture from the University of Idaho, and Bixby later moved to Port Townsend where she still lives and where she began to reacquaint herself with the art of Batik.

Visitors to the gallery this month can enjoy the creative expression that Bixby brings to life through abstract, simplified, and vibrant depictions of some of her favorite ocean-dwelling creatures. She uses large sweeping strokes, bright blended colors, and defining textures in her pieces.

Bixby has also recently taken up open water swimming, free diving, and tide pool photography to connect with the region’s unique ecosystem, which has brought her more recent works to life. The gallery noted she’s excited to explore the depth of color, texture, and incredible critters she comes across during her adventures.

Stanton moved to Port Townsend in 2012 from Colorado after a career in primary education. Her 3D work is inspired by her love of children’s whimsical perspectives and she creates in watercolor, pen and ink.

Her initial interest in art was sparked by her grandmother, an oil painter. Stanton started with watercolor, learning independently and through coursework. Her love of drawing incorporated pen and ink into her watercolor paintings, while acrylics offered yet another layer of opportunities.

Stanton’s husband, Steve, is a gifted craftsman and provides “raw material” for her 3D work.

The couple also collaborate on design elements, with her husband’s carved pieces making their way up from the wood shop to Stanton’s studio where she incorporates acrylic painting, wood burning, wirework and added “findings” to engage the viewer’s curiosity and sense of whimsy.

Her favorite quote sums up her inspirations: “Art depends on there being affection in its creator’s life and an artist must find ways, like everyone else, to nourish it.”

The Port Townsend Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and by appointment. It is located at 715 Water St.

For more Gallery information, call 360-379-8110 or go to porttownsendgallery.com.