September First Thursday Gallery Guide
Experience the Pearl: A Month of Art, Creativity, and Connection
It’s September, and the Pearl District is bursting with creativity and community spirit. At the heart of it all is the First Thursday Gallery Walk, a cherished tradition that invites art lovers to explore the neighborhood’s year-round galleries. Step inside inspiring spaces filled with paintings, photography, sculpture, and more—each one a window into Portland’s vibrant creative scene.
For an extra dose of artistry, don’t miss the First Thursday Street Gallery. From April through October, historic NW 13th Avenue transforms into an open-air showcase featuring local artists, makers, and craftspeople. It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, and connect under the evening sky.
Whether you’re a longtime collector or just discovering the Pearl, there’s always something new waiting for you. Come experience the Pearl District—where creativity thrives and inspiration is around every corner.
First Thursday Gallery Walk: A Pearl District Tradition
Since the mid-1980s, First Thursday in the Pearl District has blossomed from a small neighborhood art gathering into one of Portland’s most beloved cultural traditions. Today, it’s a vibrant, year-round monthly celebration that draws thousands of visitors to the district for gallery openings, artist talks, and an evening filled with creative energy.
A special thank-you goes out to the Portland Art Dealers Association (PADA) for helping us stay connected with our city’s extraordinary gallery community.
Come experience why First Thursday has been at the heart of Portland’s art scene for nearly four decades.
Blue Sky Gallery: A Hub for Contemporary Photography
Known as the Oregon Center for the Photographic Arts, Blue Sky Gallery has been a cornerstone of Portland’s art community since its founding. This non-profit exhibition space is dedicated to showcasing contemporary photography and fostering meaningful dialogue between artists and audiences.
What began as a platform for local photographers has grown into an internationally recognized gallery, presenting innovative work from artists across the globe. Blue Sky’s mission is clear: to inspire, educate, and connect people through the power of photography.
📍 Location: 122 Northwest 8th Avenue, Pearl District, Portland, OR 97209
🕒 Gallery Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 12:00–5:00 pm
Come experience exhibitions that challenge, inspire, and bring the world into focus—right here in the Pearl.
Exhibition | September 2nd - September 27th, 2025
First Thursday Opening Reception | Sept 4, 5-9 PM
Artist talk: Saturday, Sept 6, 2:00 -3:00 PM
Image © Osamu James Nakagawa
The Black Gallery PDX: Where Art and Activism Meet
The Black Gallery is more than an exhibition space—it’s where art and activism come together. Through workshops, exhibitions, and community events, the gallery creates opportunities for dialogue, connection, and collective celebration.
By reimagining the role of a gallery, The Black Gallery breaks traditional norms, transforming into a welcoming space where people can gather, relax, and engage. It serves as both a living art project and a catalyst for social change, making it one of Portland’s most dynamic cultural hubs.
Gallery Hours (by appointment, free & open to the public)| Thursday – Sunday | 12:00–5:00 pm
Location | 916 NW Flanders ST, Portland, OR
Discover how art and activism thrive together in the vibrant Pearl District.
Graffiti As Resistance is a photographic exhibition featuring the plywood mural panels from the Apple Store in downtown Portland. Previously shown at PCC in December 2024, the panels became a space for memorializing lives lost to police brutality, racial discrimination, and state violence. This exhibit centers those most impacted while amplifying ongoing calls for racial justice from past and present.
The exhibition runs through Sept 28th.
Image | @m.martinezphoto
Blackfish Gallery: A Cornerstone of Portland’s Art Scene
Nestled in the heart of the Pearl District, Blackfish Gallery has earned a reputation for showcasing bold, thought-provoking contemporary art. Featuring both local and international artists, Blackfish is dedicated to artistic excellence and cultural enrichment, making it one of Portland’s most enduring and influential galleries.
For decades, Blackfish has been a space where creativity thrives and community gathers, cementing its role as a cornerstone of Portland’s vibrant arts scene.
Location|938 NW Everett Street, Portland, OR 97209
Gallery Hours | Wednesday–Sunday, 11:00 am–5:00 pm
(*Please check the gallery website for current hours of operation.)
Step inside and experience exhibitions that challenge, inspire, and celebrate the power of contemporary art.
Exhibition | Sept 2nd - Sept 27th, 2025
First Thursday Opening Reception | Sept 4, 5-8 PM
Artist Talk | Sept 14, 2-4 PM
Image | Paul Missal, Blue Tiger Spirit
Elizabeth Leach Gallery: A Vital Cultural Hub in the Pearl
For over four decades, the Elizabeth Leach Gallery has been a pillar of Portland’s art community, representing both regional and international artists. Showcasing a wide range of mediums—from painting and sculpture to photography and multimedia—the gallery is celebrated for its commitment to excellence and engaging exhibitions.
More than just a gallery, Elizabeth Leach is a cultural destination, offering art lovers a chance to experience thought-provoking works that shape conversations and enrich Portland’s creative landscape.
Location | 417 NW 9th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209
Gallery Hours | Tuesday–Saturday, 10:30 am–5:30 pm (and by appointment)
Discover why Elizabeth Leach Gallery remains an essential stop for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by contemporary art.
Exhibition | Sept 4th - Oct 11th, 2025
First Thursday | September 4th, 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Website | @elizabethleachgallery
Image | Sara Siestreem
The Froelick Gallery: Diverse Contemporary Voices
Since opening in 1995, Froelick Gallery has been a vital force in Portland’s contemporary art scene. Representing a diverse roster of artists with strong, independent voices, the gallery showcases work from the Pacific Northwest, across the United States, and as far as Tokyo.
Originally located in downtown Portland, Froelick relocated in 2007 to the historic DeSoto Building, bridging Old Town and the Pearl District. Today, it remains a destination for those seeking compelling, thought-provoking exhibitions and meaningful engagement with contemporary art.
Gallery Hours | Open for walk-in visits and by appointment Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am–5 pm
Location | 714 NW Davis Street, Pearl District, Portland, 97209
Discover the voices shaping contemporary art—at the Froelick Gallery.
Exhibition | July 23rd - Sept 13th, 2025
Image | Holly Osborne, Goodbye Ty, 2024
Exhibition | July 23rd - September 13th, 2025
Image | Benny Fountain, "Hermit's Wealth"
Gallery 114: An Artist-Run Collective in the Pearl
As one of the oldest artist-owned and artist-run collectives on the West Coast, Gallery 114 is a vibrant hub for contemporary art in Portland’s Pearl District. Located in the 1100 Building, the gallery is dedicated to fostering creativity and community through curated exhibitions and community-focused events.
More than just a gallery, Gallery 114 is a platform for artistic exploration—offering emerging and established artists a space to share their voices while enriching Portland’s cultural landscape.
Gallery Hours | Thursday through Sunday from 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Location | 1100 Building, 1100 NW Glisan Street, Portland, OR 97209
Experience a collective that continues to push boundaries and celebrate the power of collaboration in contemporary art.
Exhibition | Sept 2nd- Sept 27th, 2025
First Thursday Opening Reception | Sept 4, 5-8 PM
Artist Talk | Sept 6, 3-4:30 PM
Meet & Greet Wrap-up Reception | Sept 27, 3:30-5 PM
Image | Nancy Helmsworth
J. Pepin Art Gallery: Art, Mental Health, and Creative Dialogue
The J. Pepin Art Gallery offers a captivating showcase of paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations—highlighting the creative vision of local artists during the summer months. Known for its eclectic exhibitions, the gallery stands apart for its mission: to reframe the perception of mental illness as one of mental health.
Each exhibition is not only a presentation of artistic talent but also a deeply personal dialogue. Alongside their work, artists share their journeys with mental health, sparking important conversations and reducing stigma through creativity.
By blending artistry with advocacy, the J. Pepin Art Gallery provides a powerful and inspiring cultural experience in the Pearl District.
Please note the new hours or by appointment:
Monday - Wednesday: CLOSED, Thursday - Saturday: 12 - 5 pm, Sunday: 12 - 4 pm
Location | Maytag Building, 532 NW 12th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209
Exhibition | Sept 4th - Oct 12th, 2025
First Thursday Opening Reception | Sept 4, 5-8 PM
Image | Lynda Sprecher
Laura Vincent Design & Gallery: Soulful Contemporary Voices
Founded in 2018, Laura Vincent Design & Gallery has quickly established itself as a thoughtful and dynamic space in Portland’s Pearl District. The gallery defines its artistic program through the work of represented contemporary artists with soulful, discerning voices—artists whose perspectives resonate deeply with today’s cultural landscape.
Exhibition-based in focus, Laura Vincent Design & Gallery presents curated shows featuring regional, national, and international artwork. With each exhibition, the gallery continues its mission to foster creativity, spark dialogue, and connect audiences with meaningful contemporary art.
Gallery Hours | Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 am to 5:30 pm, and by appointment.
Location | 824 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209
First Thursday Opening Reception | Sept 4, 5-8 PM
A Dialogue with Erika Warhus | Sept 13, 11am-12 PM
Image | Erika Warhus
Waterstone Gallery: Artist-Owned, Artist-Driven
For more than 30 years, Waterstone Gallery has been a cornerstone of Portland’s Pearl District arts scene. As a contemporary gallery that is both artist-owned and artist-operated, Waterstone offers a unique perspective—providing a space where artists themselves shape the exhibitions and curatorial vision.
The gallery is dedicated to showcasing dynamic, thought-provoking, and beautifully crafted works of visual art, with a strong focus on Oregon artists. By championing local voices and fostering creativity, Waterstone Gallery continues to enrich the cultural landscape of Portland and beyond.
Gallery Hours | Wednesday–Saturday, 11:00 am–5:30 pm, Sunday: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location | 124 NW 9th Avenue, Pearl District, Portland, OR 97209
Exhibition | Sept 4th - Sept 28th, 2025
First Thursday Opening Reception | Sept 4, 5-8 PM
Artist Talk | Sept 21, 11 AM-12 PM
Image | Angelita Surmon
More to Explore in the Pearl!
Urban Art Network First Thursday
The Urban Art Network transforms the Pearl District’s iconic NW 13th Avenue into a dynamic open-air gallery from April through October.
🌟 First Thursday
📆 October 4th, 2025
⏰ 5 - 9 PM
📍 NW 13th & Irving | Pearl District, PDX
Stroll the iconic Pearl District Street Gallery and explore stunning works from talented local artists and crafts. Trust us: you won’t want to miss it! See you there!
PNCA: First Thursday
First Thursday in the North Park Blocks
Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Location: Pacific Northwest College of Art, 511 NW Broadway, Portland, OR 97209
Cost: Free and open to the public
First Thursdays in the North Park Blocks are a longtime Portland tradition—a chance for neighbors and visitors alike to come together in celebration of art, creativity, and community. For decades, these monthly gatherings have brought fresh energy to the Pearl District and downtown, with gallery openings, performances, and cultural connections.
Featured this month:
Exhibition Opening: Warp Speed: Contemporary Conversations in Fiber
Cauduro Gallery: Waters of Body
Holt Project Space: i feel like i’ve lost something tonight.
Atrium Gallery: Omni Rail
Commons Gallery: INCOMING
Lemelson Gallery: As Illuminated
157 Gallery: Hardly Soft & Same, Same, but Different
B10 Gallery: Negen Duust
Don’t miss Angelo Scott’s performance of Omni Rail, part of PICA’s Festival, happening from 6:00–7:00 pm.
Discover more of whats happening at PNCA/Willamete University right here in the Pearl District!
Portland Center Stage: First Thursday
Portland Center Stage at The Armory with VNPRT and LUVJONEZ
This September, Portland Center Stage is hosting powerful performances on its Main Stage, including special events and community discussions. It’s a great opportunity to experience world-class theater in the heart of the Pearl District.
Date: Thursday, September 4, 2025
Time: 5:00 - 7 PM
Admission: Free
Details: Celebrate First Thursday with live sets from Portland-based producers and DJs VNPRT and LUVJONEZ. Their performances will blend original productions with instrumental hip hop, jazz, R&B, house, and more.
👉 Check the Portland Center Stage calendar for showtimes and ticket availability.
Pearl Party: Pearl District Neighborhood Association (PDNA)
End of Summer Party
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 1:00 – 9:00 PM
Location: NW 13th Ave between Flanders & Hoyt Streets of the Pearl District
The End of Summer Pearl Party brings neighbors and visitors together for a full day of celebration and fun. Streets fill with live music, food trucks, craft drinks, and pop-up vendors. It’s the perfect way to toast the season while supporting local businesses.
👉 Family-friendly & Free
Hosted by the Pearl District Neighborhood Association
What to Expect:
Delicious food and drinks
Live music
Opportunities to connect with local businesses
Interested in becoming a sponsor? For sponsorship opportunities and information, reach out to Missy Capone at capone@caponecousins.com.
Mono Space: HIGH FIDELITY LISTENING GALLERY
Mono Space: Open to the Public Saturday Program
Mono Space, a high-fidelity listening studio, hosts a monthly Saturday program for curious listeners and readers alike. Guests are welcomed into the gallery to experience our sound system, gift shop, record archive, and library from 11 am to 5 pm.
Address: Maddox Building, 608 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
This unique gallery hosts an opportunity for listeners to hear a thematic soundtrack drawn from the Mono Space collection, punctuated by special sets with guest selectors- all in an amazing studio space located in the historic red brick Maddox Building. This nonprofit venture provides opportunities for collective deep listening experiences, while offering public programming that opens up the layered worlds of recorded music, past and present.
Mono Space is an initiative of the Strata Foundation, a philanthropic organization that nurtures new frameworks for engaging with the arts.
Welcome to Around the Pearl!
We've launched Around the Pearl to showcase the vibrant culture and exciting events that define the Pearl District! From unique art experiences to hidden gems, we're here to connect our readers with all the amazing happenings in our vibrant corner of the city. Whether you're looking to explore the dynamic art scene or connect with community, this is your go-to guide.
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