The arts in the Snoqualmie Valley are alive and growing.

That is the belief and motto of the newly formed Snoqualmie Valley Arts, a team of passionate local supporters of the arts.

Led by longtime Valley artist and resident, Richard Burhans, the group aims to put the spotlight on local creativity by supporting existing arts organizations as well as increasing ways that residents can discover, experience and appreciate local performing and visual arts.

“For the forty years that I’ve lived here, the visual and the performing artists have really worked to promote the amazing cultural resources in our Valley,” said Burhans. “For too long, it’s been very fragmented. What we’ve done is put together an impressive list of leaders who are volunteering their time and talent to feature this culture for the benefit of all of us.

“It’s always been here,” Burhans added. “It just needs strong hands to make a venue for these people.”

The group, made up of local artisans and artists, performers and organizers, aim to create a network of support for cultural activities and grow the Valley’s economic base through cultural offerings.

Projects and events planned by the new group include the premiere of the Snoqualmie Valley Festival of Music with a newly formed chamber ensemble, the Snoqualmie Chamber Players, led by the internationally acclaimed artists Emanuel and Lenore Vardi with grand performances at Mountain Meadows Farm, August 6 and 7. Also planned are: a series of public exhibit sites; planning for the Arts in Festival Hall for its anticipated return at the 2010 Festival at Mount Si, Aug. 13, 14 and 15; exhibit and sales at this year’s North Bend Block Party, scheduled for July 17; development of a permanent location for a Snoqualmie Valley Cultural Arts Center; creation of a directory of Snoqualmie Valley artists; and support of arts education, awareness and outreach programs.

To learn more or get involved, e-mail to info@snoqualmie-valley-arts.org.