Things To See And Do
Gallery Walks: Visual Arts Venues in Portland, Oregon
With three monthly art walks on both sides of the river, Portland’s artworks — and their artists — are imminently accessible.
First Thursday
On the first Thursday of every month, galleries and shops in Old Town, the Pearl District and downtown stay open late, inviting the public to mingle with the artists and explore the city’s vibrant and dynamic art scene.
For more than 20 years, this event has featured new exhibitions and site-specific installations. Galleries offer complimentary food and drink, and artists are often on hand to discuss their work. In addition to the year-round gallery openings, the open-air First Thursday Street Gallery showcases local artwork from April to November on Northwest 13th Avenue, between Hoyt and Kearney streets.
Last Thursday
Like First Thursday’s younger and more rambunctious sibling, Northeast Alberta Street’s art walk turns the street into a spirited open-air party on the last Thursday evening of each month. Numerous galleries present new shows, while individual artists — along with food vendors, musicians and other performers — set up shop on the sidewalks.
First Friday
Portland’s east side is brimming with established, quality art galleries as well as a new breed of emerging and innovative artist studios, galleries and art-related venues. The monthly First Friday art walk features openings throughout the Central Eastside District.
