Erin Bakke

Erin Bakke has loved making all kinds of things—pictures, stories, songs, big plans—for as long as she can remember. Freedom to wander and daydream fueled her creative days as a child, and the best fun of all was—and still is—to dream up whole new worlds to go adventuring in. Erin’s work reflects a lifelong appreciation for storytelling in its many forms—spoken, seen, sung, danced, and acted—because these expressions pull back the curtain on ordinary experience to let us in on hidden wonder.

Her art and creative energy extend into her community engagement and leadership. Erin holds degrees in Studio Art and English Literature from the University of Nevada – Reno and balances her artistic career with being a proud parent of three awesome kids and four grandkids. She lives, dreams, and creates in Vallejo, California, where she works out of Mare Island Art Studios (formerly Coal Shed Studios) and contributes to the broader creative life of the region.

In addition to her personal art practice, Erin plays a pivotal role at Mare Island Art Studios as Studio Manager, Community Liaison, and organizer of the Art of Community show series. She supports and amplifies the work of fellow artists, builds connections between the studios and the Vallejo community, and helps nurture the vibrant creative ecosystem that makes MIAS such a dynamic cultural destination.

Erin’s creative presence also extends online—where she shares her art, joy, and moments of sunny imagination under the handle @alwayssunnyinlalaland on Instagram and through her website ErinBakke.com