Meet the Artist
Tammy Zinke
Meet Tammy Zinke
Tammy Zinke is a self-taught painter who has spent more than thirty years exploring color, texture, and movement through acrylic paint. Her work invites viewers into a sensory experience where atmosphere, memory, and emotion all play a part.
Tammy grew up on the Oregon Coast, where waves, forests, and changing weather were constant companions. Those early surroundings shaped her artistic voice and continue to appear in her paintings today. After moving to Sandpoint more than thirty years ago, the lakes, mountains, and Northwest skies became an extension of her inspiration.
She paints to capture the feeling of a place or moment. The crash and spray of a wave. The peaceful pull of a quiet shoreline. The shifting light that transforms the forest one breath at a time. Her style moves comfortably between realism and impressionism, guided by instinct and an appreciation for the natural world.
Tammy’s philosophy is simple: each painting is a chance to share a moment of beauty and connection. She brings that same warmth to her classes and to the studio, where visitors are encouraged to browse, ask questions, and see what she is working on.
How Each Painting
Comes to Life
Many of Tammy’s paintings begin long before the first brushstroke. She builds many of her canvases by hand using kiln-dried wood and cotton canvas. After assembling the frame, she applies multiple layers of gesso to create a strong, even surface.
From there, the process is intuitive. She layers color, blends atmosphere, and develops texture until the painting carries the mood she is working toward. Her approach is patient, often returning to a piece over several sessions until it feels complete.
A Studio Rooted in Community
T. Zinke Art Studio is a space where art, learning, and community come together. The studio is where Tammy paints her original works and shares her love of art through classes and workshops.
It is also home to a full art supply shop that she curates with care. The shelves are stocked with high-quality materials she trusts, making it easy for beginners and experienced artists to find exactly what they need.
Visitors often describe the studio as warm and welcoming. Tammy enjoys conversations with customers, helping them choose supplies, and supporting anyone looking to start their creative journey or brush up on skills.
