With pomp and circumstance, the new Bainbridge Island Museum of Art opened to the public Friday, June 14.

The vision for a permanent space to house art on the island began around 10 years ago and one week ago that vision became a reality. The museum, at 20,000 square feet, is an impressive feat in showcasing the best art the region has to offer in an intimate, welcoming space.

And what a welcome it is.

As islanders and tourists alike disembark from the ferry they will now be greeted not only by the Waypoint Park, but also by a world-class art museum — the best part of which, is that it is entirely free.

We at the Review applaud the founders, architects, volunteers and idealists who made this vision a reality. While it has been claimed as a reason many islanders call Bainbridge home, at last can the island truly call itself a bastion of the arts.