Kids painting a car

As summer wound down to its close, the artists were still out in force for the increasingly popular Art Walks throughout Portland. Whether monthly or yearly events, there’s plenty to see in late summer and into autumn. Whether its painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, photography, or even a band or two, the art scene is Portland has more than enough to keep anyone gazing.

August came to an end with Last Thursday on Alberta Street in Northeast Portland. What started out as a number of artists lined up along the sidewalks and interested people squeezing through the sidewalks, popping in and out of the little shops and galleries, has now evolved into a huge venture where part of the street has been closed to traffic. The music of folk and funk bands wafted off the corners by the doughnut shops and side streets, and the famous Clown House—as always—had some crazy performances going on.

Metalworking

Labor Day Weekend offers Art in the Pearl on the North Park Blocks in what is arguably the center of Portland’s gallery scene. My wife and I bought a ceramic French butter dish and four matted photographs of children from around the world. Though a bit of rain fell, the day eventually cleared. We even got a demonstration of a working foundry.

Next came First Thursday, the vibrant and busy art walk in the Pearl District. Some of Oregon’s best-known galleries participate, showing many of Oregon’s best-known artists. Near Chinatown, the Everett Street Lofts lends space for up-and-coming young artists to show in intimate studio spaces with DJ’s and occasional free beer. As with Alberta, there are street performers galore—this night, a drum set of plastic tubs and glass bottles pounded into the humid night.

If you missed it this month, no worries: Alberta is having one more Last Thursday in September, and the Pearl’s First Thursday goes all year long.

For more information on events taking place in the Pearl District, please visit our Portland Metro section.