Celebrate Artist Appreciation Month this August!

August is upon us, which means that it’s time to finish up the summer by celebrating Fine Art Appreciation Month! Here in Portland, the arts community is beautiful, bright and endlessly full of talent. If you’re looking for ways to support local creators, PRP has the scoop on all-things-art—happening this month and beyond.

As far as fine art is concerned, there are a slew of galleries all around town.

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is located at Portland State University and puts together a revolving set of exhibits year round, many of which include amazing student work. Most recently, their showings included At This Time (work from PSU’s art and design program), Weaving Data (an exhibit showcasing the relationship between art and technology), and The Art of Food. Entry to the museum is free!

Located in the Pearl District is Blackfish Gallery, which specializes mostly in photography. Three of their latest openings include Drawing the Line (a group artist showing) Hot Pink Justice (work from mixed-media artist Gia Whitlock) and Dusk, featuring art from Corey S. Pressman. The gallery has been open since 1979 and is a founding member of the Portland Art Dealers’ Association.

It would be remiss not to mention the Portland Art Museum (located in the city’s cultural district), which is Portland’s largest art museum and features a blend of contemporary and historical art from around the world. Their most recent exhibition is titled Guillermo del Toro: Crafting Pinocchio, and features inspiration and insights into the making of Del Toro’s film. Entrance to Portland Art Museum is $25 for adults, and there are special rates available for students, seniors, and kids. PAM’s website updates frequently with new, free events pertaining to the art community year round.

If you’re looking for an art event that will keep you excited past this month, First Thursday is a monthly tradition in which artist spaces and creators from around town participate. There are opening receptions with food and drink at local galleries, as well as booths set up around the Pearl District selling art and other services. A similar event also takes place on the last Thursday of every month on Alberta street in Northeast Portland. Featured here are not only visual artists, but vendors and musicians as well.

Portland’s art community is rich with talent and support, with many thanks to be given to individuals and groups who make sure arts education and employment is available to all. Portland Street Art Alliance works to fund artist commissions, community art projects, and grant programs. Their partnerships also work to provide arts education to kids all around Portland.

However you chose to spend the end of your summer, there are a plethora of ways to support local artists—and thus your Portland community as well. Happy August and Fine Art Appreciation Month from Portland Radio Project!