Salem, Oregon is a city bursting with creativity and artistic expression. The local art scene includes everything from traditional galleries and art pop-ups to museums and public art installations. If you love art or are simply looking for a creative way to spend an afternoon, these local art galleries and installations are worth a visit.
Salem Art Association: Bush Barn Art Center + Annex
The Salem Art Association (SAA) operates the Bush Barn Art Center + Annex, a cornerstone of Salem’s art community. SAA is dedicated to fostering creativity and arts education, hosting events, classes, and art programs for all ages throughout the year. They also host the annual Salem Art Fair & Festival, the largest art festival in Oregon!
Located in the historic Bush’s Pasture Park, the Bush Barn Art Center features rotating exhibitions showcasing local, regional, and national artists. The gallery includes a variety of media, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and textiles. The Annex space provides a more contemporary and experimental venue for emerging artists. Bush Barn & Annex exhibitions are always free and open to the public!
The Elsinore Gallery and Artists in Action
The Elsinore Gallery is a well-established gallery in downtown Salem, known for their selection of fine art, custom framing, and local artistry. With monthly exhibits featuring regional and national artists, The Elsinore Gallery is a beloved destination for those seeking traditional and contemporary pieces. The gallery’s recent partnership with Artists in Action (AiA)—a collective of local artists—displays a rotating showcase of unique works across various media, including paintings, prints, jewelry, and ceramics. Make sure you check their events schedule to learn about current shows and featured artists!
Salem on the Edge
Salem on the Edge is a contemporary art gallery in the heart of downtown Salem, showcasing a variety of mediums from Pacific Northwest artists. Featured art includes (but is not limited to) contemporary paintings, mixed media, photography, graffiti art, small works, and sculptures. Their mission is to provide a central space where diverse voices can be represented in Salem’s vibrant art community. They are (re)opening in November with their first show under new ownership!
Hallie Ford Museum of Art
As Oregon’s third-largest art museum, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art it showcases an impressive collection of work by Native American artists and regional Pacific Northwest pieces, as well as historical and ancient artwork from around the world.
The museum, which is part of Willamette University, is known for their rotating special exhibitions that highlight local artists as well as internationally-recognized figures. With a strong focus on Oregon’s history and heritage, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art aims to educate and inspire visitors of all ages. They also offers guided tours, lectures, and educational programs for the community.
Mayor’s Artist Series in the Salem Convention Center
The Mayor’s Artist Series at the Salem Convention Center is a unique public art initiative in collaboration with the Oregon Artists Series Foundation (OASF). The Level 2 gallery on the second floor showcases a rotating selection of work and features a range of mediums, including paintings, photography, and mixed media. You’ll also find a selection of sculptures throughout and outside of the convention center courtesy of the Salem Public Art Collection. This public art enhances the Salem Convention Center’s space with high-quality pieces that reflect Oregon’s artistic culture.
Salem Public Art Collection
The Salem Public Art Collection is a vibrant showcase of art installations spread throughout the city, specifically in Downtown Salem, the Civic Center, and the Salem Public Library. This collection features an assortment of public artworks—including sculptures, murals, and interactive pieces—that reflect the community’s identity and history. The installations are thoughtfully curated to make art accessible to all and enhance Salem’s public spaces with engaging and thought-provoking pieces.
Salem’s art scene is a vital and evolving part of the community, providing opportunities for everyone to engage with and appreciate creativity. As featured above, the city is full of spaces that celebrate local talent and artistic diversity. Make a point to visit these galleries and art installations to experience Salem’s rich art community!
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