It is likely that not many Americans have heard of Kyrgyzstan or know where this Central Asian country is located. Fred and Sharon Lundahl, proprietors of Music for the Eyes, worked as diplomats in this country, along with several others in Central Asia. When they retired from the US Diplomatic Service, they became residents of Whidbey Island and established themselves as shop keepers. They continue to make one or two trips a year abroad to restock their inventories of incredible Oriental rugs, hats and other unusual items. They also enjoy traveling to Turkey, which has always been a wonderful place for rugs and textiles, as well as to Russia, Tibet and other exotic places.
The store on First Street in Downtown Langley definitely lives up to its name. It’s impossible to walk through the door and not be dazzled by the huge array of colors, textures and products. Sharon also creates her own line of silver jewelry which is featured in the store.
The Lundahls moved to Whidbey in 2003 and decided to translate their love for the people and culture of Central Asia into a unique business not only for Whidbey Island, but for the entire Puget Sound region. Many people believe that the Lundahls have one of the largest and finest collections around of Oriental rugs, musical instruments, jewelry, robes and other artifacts from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. (former members of the Soviet Union).
Fred and Sharon appreciate the many customers who come by that have heard about their store. They welcome visitors to the shop who want to stop by and share their own travel experiences and talk about the collection at Music for the Eyes.
They also get great pleasure out of chatting with the first-time visitor who walks through the door with no expectations. One is welcome to wander through the large front area with its stacks of rugs and through the maze of smaller rooms that feature beads, jewelry, and other artifacts from Central Asia.
For more information about the store and the stories of Fred and Sharon Lundahl, visit the website for Music for the Eyes, or stop by 314 First Street in Langley. The store is open 7 days a week 11 AM to 5 PM.
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