The Seattle art scene is diverse and vibrant, a fact reflected in the collections at the Seattle Art Museum, the Henry Art Gallery, the Frye Art Museum, and the Olympic Sculpture Park. The Emerald City also plays host to dozens of regular art walks, with pop-up art galleries, live performances, food, and more.
Here are some of our favorite Seattle neighborhood art walks.
Ballard Art Walk
From 6 to 9 PM on the second Saturday of each month, dozens of local Ballard businesses showcase drawings, paintings, and photographs by local artists. Occasionally, artists hold workshops as part of the Ballard Art Walk for those interested. The event, spread out over several blocks on Ballard Avenue and Market Street, is easily accessible from AMLI Mark24.
Capitol Hill Art Walk
One of the largest art walks in Seattle, the Blitz Capitol Hill Art Walk, takes place on the second Thursday of each month from 5 to 8 PM. It celebrates visual, performance, and culinary artists from throughout Western Washington, but with a clear emphasis on neighborhood talent. Three dozen local businesses partake in the event, proudly displaying art or offering performance space to participants. A number of participating venues are within walking distance of AMLI 535 and AMLI South Lake Union, making it easy for residents to celebrate Capitol Hill’s artsy culture.
Central District Art Walk
Unlike most of the art walks on this list, Seattle’s Central District Art Walk takes place all day long. The free event starts at 1 PM on the second Saturday of every month. Ten businesses in the Central Business District, including Autumn Thing, Coyote Central, Central Cinema, and Cortona Cafe, display work by talented artists as part of the walk.
Pike Place Summer Art Walk
Another can’t-miss art walk, the Summer Art Walk at Pike Place takes place only in June, July, August, and September. The event, whose participants include the Behr Gallery, Dwyer Gallery, and The Paper Feather, kicks off at 6 PM on the first Thursday of each month. Participating venues are just over a mile from AMLI 535 and AMLI South Lake Union.
First Thursday Seattle Art Walk
When the summer months have passed and you’re itching to participate in a downtown art walk, you can. The First Thursday Seattle Art Walk takes place every month from 5 to 8 PM, and features more than 35 galleries, museums, restaurants, bars, and shops. Parking can be validated at participating businesses.
South Lake Union Art Walk
Held just twice a year, the South Lake Union Art Walk is an event to look forward to. Pop-up galleries and lively performances transform South Lake Union. Check the event’s website for updates on artists who will be on display at the next art walk, scheduled for October 1, 2015 from 5 to 8 PM.
If you’re stimulated by the visual or performance arts, be sure to check out the Seattle neighborhood art walk nearest you. Free entertainment, good food, and cultural enrichment are a few of the benefits you’ll reap. If you’re in the market, you may also find some great art for your apartment.
What do you like best about Seattle’s art walks? Share in the comments.
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst