The best places to find art in Central Oregon

Bend’s art scene is as diverse as its natural environment. It’s home to nationally recognized artists, musicians, filmmakers, painters, writers, and much more. We’ve rounded up just a few of the numerous sources of art in the area, from galleries and festivals to what you’ll find simply driving around town.

Our Artist Spotlight Events

In honor of our 30th anniversary, some of our best local artists and photographers have been invited to showcase their work throughout the year. Come celebrate with us and meet the artists while enjoying an evening filled with wine, conversation, and fine photography at our next event with Dorothy Freudenberg on October 10 from 5-8pm at Eastlake.

Galleries Downtown

Paintings, sculpture, jewelry, glass, and photography are just a few of the things that Bend’s art galleries have to offer. From internationally known artists to the very finest local art, visiting our galleries is a great way to really get to know the area, immerse yourself in beauty, and find a treasure of your own. Highlights include, but are definitely not limited to, Paul Scott Gallery, Mockingbird Gallery, and Red Chair Gallery.

The Old Mill

The galleries in the Old Mill District represent numerous artists and some are working-artist studios. The art comes in a variety of mediums from traditional paintings, sculpture, and photography to printmaking, fiber, and mixed media. Highlights include Atelier 6000, a printmaking studio and book arts center offering classes, workshops, and gallery exhibitions; the Art Station, where kids and adults can get creative with a self-guided art activity with help from an instructor; and, Tumalo Art Co, which is owned and operated by artists and is committed to bringing the best of Northwest art to its patrons.

First Friday

A great way to experience Bend’s art galleries is to go to the monthly First Friday art walks in Downtown Bend and at the Old Mill District. Live music fills the streets, as shops and art galleries stay open late to showcase artists and their work. You can ride the free GETIT Shuttle bus on a continuous loop between downtown and the Old Mill, and even download a free app from Cascade A&E to guide you in your artsy journey.

Last Saturday at The Old Ironworks Arts District

Self-proclaimed as “Bend’s hippest arts district,” Last Saturday is a collective of artists, makers, and businesses inviting you to shop local and join them for their monthly event. Built in 1912 to service Bend’s Lumber Mills and Railroad, the district is one of Bend’s last remaining vestiges of historical brick and mortar buildings and is fast becoming Bend’s newest collection of shared, creatively focused work spaces. The Last Saturday art walk features arts, drinks, and music throughout the complex from 6pm to about 10:30pm. Drinks are free when you purchase a tumbler from a participating shop.

Bend Fall Festival

The Fall Festival will be celebrating its 19th year on the streets of Downtown Bend October 3-5. Mark your calendars for fall-themed activities including contests, music, food, and the Fine Artist Promenade, which features over 100 participants.

Local coffee shops

Many different coffee shops feature many artists and photographers in the area for you to enjoy, including Backporch Coffee Roasters, Thump Coffee, Strictly Organic Coffee Co, and Bellatazza, to name a few favorites. After all, Bluebird Coffee Company downtown is where we discovered Darryl Cox’s beautiful natural frames made from branches!

Art in Public Places

We’re proud that Bend has an award-winning collection of public art, including the “Salmon Dance” statue in front of the Public Library and infamous “Phoenix Rising” roundabout art outside of Eastlake on Century and Galveston. Art in Public Places is a non-profit organization that has been commissioning artworks for installation in public venues within the city of Bend since the late 1970s.

Tin Pan Alley

This is a newer addition to Bend’s growing collection of public art. The artists are chosen for their talent, vision, and passion for Bend and you’ll find their work adorning parking garage walls and alleyways downtown. The collection currently features work from Katie Daisy, Jesse Roberts, Mark Rada, Andrew Wachs, and Megan McGuinness. Click here for a map of where to find them and what is currently on display!

Art in the High Desert

This is a fine art show not to be missed, and this summer they celebrated their sixth year in the Old Mill District. Art in the High Desert was named one of the top 15 fine art and craft shows in the country (out of 600) by the Art Fair Source Guide. Over 100 nationally acclaimed visual artists from across the country and Canada gathered on the banks of the Deschutes River in late August. Artists showcased work in mixed media, photography, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, glass, printmaking, wood, fiber art, drawing, painting, and metalworks.

You can get a taste of our city’s vibrant art scene at our next Artist Spotlight Event with Dorothy Freudenberg on October 10 from 5-8pm at Eastlake!