For a town of only 80 thousand "ish" in population, Bend has a wealth of art galleries. If you can…read morevisit only one, the gallery that is Tumalo Art Co. and run by a collective of local artists would be a very good choice. Artists in the managing collective, and other artists who also display at the Tumalo Art Co. gallery, run the gamut of media and styles. From watercolor artists, to those who work in oil or acrylic, to photographers, to bronze sculptors, to glass artists, to mixed media artists to those who create jewelry, there is something for everyone to appreciate. From more whimsical to more traditional to more interpretative pieces. Price points are good and the cost of items runs the spectrum. We've made purchases of local artists' work who display at the gallery from greeting cards to commissioned large scale paintings. (Framing the greeting cards is an inexpensive way to add little art accents in your home as a friend of mine did - for herself and to give as gifts. Neat art is within everyone's reach! ;-) ) We're been visiting Tumalo Art Co. since its inaugural year, around 2001, when it operated out of space in Tumalo Junction and we so appreciate that this great gallery is more conveniently located for visitors and Bend locals alike now that it has moved to the Shops at the Old Mill District. Great location (with very good parking) with lots of space for display of the artists' work...but seems to get overlooked by visitors who are more focused on the galleries located in downtown Bend. But if you seek out this great gallery, you'll be glad you did for a sampling of some of the most interesting art in Central Oregon all created by local artists.

Great local gallery with a wonderful variety of art. Excellent monthly exhibits and truly an…read moreamazing gallery with depth of practice and artistic integrity.

I love this local artisan co-op. Local artists working together to sell their art. Always one, or…read moretwo of the artists are working. I love the connection they have with their customers and art. I've lucked out a few times here, especially with the jewelry and pottery. The prices have always been reasonable and I've been thrilled with every purchase. A wide variety of art, lots of different types of fine art represented. I think this is a great place to stop when shopping for a gift for someone special (and maybe that some special is you). And I love the idea that people visiting Bend get a chance to see the wonderful craftsmanship that we have here in Bend. A great representation of the many talented artists that call Bend their home.

After a lovely walk along the river, we stumbled into the area and discovered Red Chair Gallery…read more The artist there (wish I could remember her name) was so pleasant about inviting questions and sharing what she knew of the others' art. All kinds of interesting things in there. I did like her work, but something about this bunny by another artist called to me. The sweet lady must have spent half an hour playing with different combinations of boxes and bubble wrap to make sure it'd be safe for my walk back and subsequent trip in the suitcase home to San Diego. "River Rabbit" now oversees our living room. An interesting shop that we'll peruse again the next time we have reason to be in Bend.

Formerly Atelier 6000, the Bend Art Center is a great local art gallery and workshop located in the…read moreBox Factory complex. Features a good printmaking studio.

Fabulous new addition to downtown Redmond! Bright vibrant gallery with lots of local artists…read morerepresented. It is run by volunteers that are members of the Dry Canyon Art Association. The exhibits change every couple of months, so you'll find something new. They encourage art by pairing with local artists represented guilds, veterans, etc. AND.... The profits, fundraising and grants are used to bring art to the Redmond elementary schools! Great way to support the community and local artists!

Scalehouse, perhaps the only non-profit contemporary art gallery in Bend, is located in the large…read moreFranklin Crossing building on the corner of Franklin and Bond. The gallery can be accessed either from the interior of the building or from Tin Pan Alley. - Rotating contemporary art on display in a moderately-sized gallery space. Depending on the particular exhibit, you'll find photography, drawing, painting, mixed-media and sculpture by individual artists and group shows. - Features both upcoming and established artists such as Bend residents Nancy Floyd (2022 Guggenheim Fellow), Paula Bullwinkle, Bill Hoppe and Christian Brown, as well as regional artists such as April Bey and Sadie Barnette. - As with many contemporary art galleries, some of the work revolves around current societal issues. The recent COBIPOC exhibit, "Be Nice (White) ... You're in Bend," examined the notion that Central Oregon lacked racial diversity and sought to increase the visibility of the BIPOC community. Another recent show, "Crow's Shadow Institute of the Arts," featured work from the Umatilla tribes in Eastern Oregon. - Scalehouse was founded in part by local art legend Patricia Clark who did much to promote art and artists in Central Oregon. The gallery has an adjoining artist workshop dedicated to Pat. After viewing the art, you might mosey down the alley to San Simon for a cocktail or to The Stihl Whiskey Bar, also located in Franklin Crossing (door on Franklin Ave).

An amazing collection of art in a light filled space in the heart of town. The works are…read morethoughtfully arranged to give them each "breathing room". Most of the artists are local. I usually play a game in galleries in which I can have one or two pieces to take home. In the current Peterson collection I easily found ten pieces I would love to own. Talk with the gallery folks--they are unpretentious, good humored, open and have stories and anecdotes that enhanced our viewing.

Stumbled upon this gallery while visiting Bend and was blown away. One of the cooler galleries I've…read morebeen in and a very "vibey", low-key environment. The artists here are incredible, and the person working that day pulled out pieces from the back, which was a blast. A must if you're in the Central Oregon area.

Denise is a super creative and talented human. We've brought in three paintings and one pencil…read moredrawing in the past month and her eye for detail with matching the correct mats and frames is awesome! We love how she's made out artwork become even more beautiful!

Denise does a great job providing framing services with a personal touch. She is also a great…read moresupporter of local artists giving them an opportunity to showcase their art in her store. We need more of her spirit in Bend!

We recently discovered this great pottery studio on a visit to Sisters. It is tucked away on a…read moreside street -- but, oh, it is worth the two-minute detour! The resident potter, Ken Merrill, gave us a warm welcome and was glad to explain the various firing processes. Many styles are represented, including raku and pit-fired pieces. Ken has a broad range of pieces available in many glaze and color combinations. Many items are inspired by the distinctive Three Sisters motif. Ken's work balances the skills of the artisan and the creativity of the artist. Functional and decorative pottery are both presented. There were so many beautiful pieces that we found it very hard to narrow down our choice. But we did, and we are thrilled with our purchase. This would be a great place to purchase a lovely memento of your trip to the high desert, or for gifts. We found a much wider offering in this one-man studio than we have found in much larger galleries that represent many artists. Prices were reasonable, given the quality of the work. We look forward to our next visit!

Definitely worth the visit! Lots of a beautiful pottery to choose from. I love my mug that…read morereminds me of Sisters and feels perfect in my hand. I can't prove it, but I believe this mug makes coffee taste better, too!