Philip McCracken honored at Arts Fest

McCracken, a Guemes Island sculptor, was named the 2009 Anacortes Patron of the Arts for his contribution to the arts in the community includes his remarkable contribution as an artist, and his history of being a mentor to other young artists.

He is a fourth generation Skagitonian who has lived and worked on Guemes Island since the 1950's. He attended the University of Washington, and later studied under famed English sculptor Henry Moore, who influenced both his life and his work.

McCracken's is most known for his bird and animal sculptures, and his fusion of form and idea. His work appears in numerous Anacortes public locations, with pieces at Anacortes Public Library, the Anacortes Post Office, Mt. Erie summit, and Anacortes High School.

He received the first Governor's Award in 1964. In 2002, he was included in Iridescent Light: The Emergence of Northwest Art, by Deloris Tarzan Ament. His work has been exhibited and collected nationally, and he has received much acclaim as a master of his craft.

In addition to his professional success, McCracken has also been an inspiration and teacher to other young artists coming after him, inviting them into his studio to work and learn along side him. Anacortes artists Lanny Bergner and Allen Moe are among the artists who have benefited from his creative wisdom and generosity.