Members of the Eugene community will flock downtown April 5 for the First Friday ArtWalk, a once-a-month opportunity to immerse oneself in Eugene’s vibrant art scene.
First Friday ArtWalks came into fruition over thirty years ago when Fred Crafts, a local storyteller and radio personality, decided to do guided tours of downtown Eugene’s art galleries.
“They began as really three to five stops on any given art walk evening,” Tara Wibrew, Lane County Community Arts Coordinator, said. “Now, ArtWalk has grown over the course of many decades to include more than two dozen locations throughout downtown.”
These days, First Friday ArtWalks average anywhere between 500 to 1,250 participants depending on the weather. Due to the large volume, the walks are less structured than they were thirty years ago. Participants can pick up an ArtWalk Guide at the Farmer’s Market Pavillion before heading off to “choose their own adventure,” Wibrew said.
Some of the businesses involved in First Friday ArtWalks are FUSE Jewelry Collective, FLUX Crystals, Karin Clarke Gallery, The New Zone Gallery and OSLP Arts and Culture Center.
“When you look at the map, it continues to expand each and every year, and for that matter each and every month,” Wibrew said. “So you’re always finding new venues or venues that might be seasonal.”
One of the facets of the upcoming art walk that Wibrew is most excited for is the Lane Arts Council Design Arts Apprenticeship Showcase at Spark on 22 W 7th Avenue. The exhibition features innovative products made by local middle and high schoolers, including fashion items, 3D models, digital art and biomimicry.
“It’s really incredible to see students working in tandem with professionals to help guide their own artistic creations,” Wibrew said. “And it becomes their opportunity to really show that off in a public space as a part of ArtWalk.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the student designers at Spark and speak with them about their artistic process.
Another highlight of the upcoming First Friday ArtWalk is a sewing circle hosted by HIV Alliance and Eugene PRIDE to create a new pride flag. No experience is necessary to participate.
“Lavender Landmarks: Touring Eugene’s Historically Queer Sites” is another new addition to the First Friday ArtWalks. Created by University of Oregon student organizer Shayna Meltzer, the tour is designed to connect people with Eugene’s lesser-known queer history. The tour combines the past and the present and focuses on downtown Eugene.
Whether it be for the queer history tour, student showcases, art galleries or simply to spend an evening in charming downtown Eugene, visit the next First Friday ArtWalk on April 5. There is a little something for everyone.
