Calapooia Gallery: A Hub for Local Art and Creativity
Image from Gallery Calapooia | Irresistible Art
I visited Gallery Calapooia for the first time this last week, which is nestled in the heart of Albany, Oregon. It showcases 21 local artists who specialize in a variety of mediums. The Gallery was established by a collective of passionate local artists in 2013 and ever since the gallery has become a cornerstone for local art enthusiasts and creators alike.
If you have yet to visit, you can find Gallery Calapooia in the historic Flinn Block building on 1st Ave in Albany, Oregon. A fun fact is that the Flinn Block building (a historic landmark) is that it is known for it’s cast iron façade who was manufactured by the local foundry and it remains largely intact! It’s still referenced today as one of the finest examples of the Baroque style. Another fun fact is I, Jessie Doyle, almost got married in one of the upper rooms there, but enough about me!
Image from Gallery Calapooia | Irresistible Art
Calapooia Gallery has a wide arrange of local artist that inspire.
Susan Bourdet – Capturing Nature’s Beauty
Susan Bourdet who is obviously a master of watercolor has breathtaking depictions of wildlife and nature landscapes. Their paintings all seemed to reflect a deep appreciation for the Pacific Northwest’s flora and fauna. We were also impressed by Susan’s ability to capture light and movement in her work, which much have made her a favorite among collectors and nature enthusiasts alike. Her art invites viewers to pause and appreciate the delicate beauty of the natural world, which us in the Pacific Northwest truly appreciate.
Anna Harris – Expressive and Textural Creations
Anna Harris’s work was very impressive and a testament to the power of mixed media art. From what I saw they often incorporates organic elements and textures. Through their artistry, they explore the relationship between material and emotion, producing works that are both contemporary and timeless. It also reminded me of every art piece I might want for an Alice in Wonderland house party.
Carol Houk – A Journey Through Glass
Most people have always been a sucker for stain glass. Carol Houk has an innovative approach to fused glass focused on vibrant colors and intricate designs to life. Their creations range from functional art pieces to abstract decorative works, each showcasing a mastery of technique and design. Carol’s work seems to be a reflection of their passion for experimentation which results in these pieces that capture the play of light and texture in mesmerizing ways.
Marjorie Kinch – Bringing Whimsy to Life
The awe-inspiring, imaginative and whimsical creations of Majorie Kinch caught our attention. It seems like Marjorie infuses their pieces with a sense of playfulness and storytelling. Their art seems to feature intricate details and unexpected elements, drawing viewers into a world of creativity and wonder.
Conclusion:
Calapooia Gallery's inception was driven by a shared vision among these artists to create a space that celebrates and promotes local art. Through their collective efforts, the gallery has flourished, offering a platform for artists to exhibit their work and for the community to engage with diverse art forms. Today, Calapooia Gallery continues to thrive, embodying the spirit of collaboration and creativity that its founders envisioned.