If you find yourself wandering through the charming streets of Camas, Washington, make sure to stop by the Attic Gallery, located at 419 NE Cedar St, Camas, WA. This fine art gallery has been a beacon for contemporary art lovers since its humble beginnings in 1973, when it was born in an attic in Portland, Oregon. Today, it proudly showcases the original works of over 50 Pacific Northwest artists, making it a vibrant hub for creativity and culture in downtown Camas.
A Rich History With a Modern Twist
The story of Attic Gallery is as colorful as the art it displays. Founded by Diana Faville in her attic, the gallery was one of only a few fine art galleries in Portland at the time. The tradition continued when Maria and Tommer Gonser, Diana’s daughter and son-in-law, moved the gallery to Camas to tap into the growing art scene and community spirit there. Their move wasn’t just a change of address; it was a strategic leap to bring fine art closer to a new audience while keeping the gallery’s original charm and dedication to local artists alive.
What to Expect Inside
Attic Gallery is not your average art stop. It offers a diverse collection of paintings in acrylics, oils, pastels, and mixed media, alongside sculptures crafted from bronze, metal, clay, and wood. The gallery also features a full-service custom frame shop with an extensive design center, where art lovers can find the perfect frame to complement their chosen piece.
The gallery hosts rotating monthly exhibits, often accompanied by lively opening receptions on the first Friday of each month, which align with the First Friday events in downtown Camas. These exhibits range from solo showcases to thematic group shows, such as the recent “Feathered Friends” exhibit featuring bird-inspired art or the April exhibit honoring the historic Camas paper mill.
Gallery Hours and Visiting Tips
Planning your visit is easy. Attic Gallery welcomes visitors from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. The gallery is closed on Mondays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so make sure to time your trip accordingly to catch the latest exhibits and perhaps meet some of the artists or the friendly staff who know their art inside out.
Why Camas? Why Now?
Thinking about where to live or visit next? Camas is a city that’s growing fast but still holds onto its small-town charm. Living here means enjoying a community that values art, culture, and local businesses like Attic Gallery. Imagine strolling down Cedar Street on a sunny afternoon, popping into the gallery to see fresh artwork, then grabbing a coffee or a bite at one of the nearby eateries.
The city’s mix of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy makes it a fantastic place to call home or to spend a weekend exploring. Plus, with events like First Fridays, there’s always something happening to keep your social calendar buzzing.
Why Attic Gallery Should Be Your Next Art Destination
Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or just dipping your toes into the world of fine art, Attic Gallery offers something for everyone. The gallery’s commitment to showcasing local artists means you’re not just buying art; you’re supporting a community and a culture that thrives on creativity and expression. The knowledgeable staff, the variety of art styles, and the custom framing services make it a one-stop shop for anyone looking to add a touch of inspiration to their home or office.
So next time you find yourself in Camas, drop by Attic Gallery at 419 NE Cedar St. Explore the rotating exhibits, chat with the folks who run the place, and maybe even find that perfect piece that speaks to you. Art lovers and curious visitors alike will find plenty to admire and enjoy in this lively corner of downtown Camas.
Attic Gallery is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday through Friday and closed on Monday, Saturday, and Sunday. The address is 419 NE Cedar St, Camas, WA. Stop by to experience original Pacific Northwest art and support local artists today.
Source: atticgallery.com
Header Image Source: Attic Gallery – GMB
