McMinnville Art Walk: Galleries & Studios

So you’ve planned your visit to wine country, booked lodging at a McMinnville hotel or B&B, and you’ve probably mapped out a winery tour and even a restaurant plan… but don’t forget our art galleries.

We’ve got more than ever… not so many that you couldn’t hit most in a day or so, and they’re few enough (and close enough) that you probably could visit them all if you plan a McMinnville visit right. Most of those in the city, in fact, are within easy walking distance of each other.

Here’s a guide to get your Art Walk going:

John Stromme Art Gallery, 448 NE 3rd: Start your tour at the east end of downtown Mac with long-time area painter John Stromme. Chances are good you’ll get to meet the artist himself.

RJ Photography Studio, 546 NE 3rd: Having worked downtown with a view of RJ’s storefront display, I can attest that “stunning” is exactly the right word for what you’ll find there.

Currents Gallery, 532 NE 3rd: This artist-owned and operated gallery just up the street from RJ’s always has a huge selection, representing work by more than 60 local artists.

Marilyn Affolter Fine Art Gallery, 325 NE Evans: Just around the corner from McMenamins, you’ll find a cozy gallery brimming with work by Marilyn and other local artists.

Zach Hixson Studio, 627 NE 4th Street: One block over from historic downtown, this self-taught painter specializes in oils that capture the ethereal magic of wine country terroir.

Eagles Nest Artisan Studio, 303 NE 3rd: Beautiful, artisanal furniture, hand-crafted jewelry, sculpture, photography, glasswork, oils and watercolors … eclectic enough for you?

Off the beaten path of Third Street but only minutes away, also plan to visit:

MECA, 636 NE Baker Street: Just three blocks north of downtown, the McMinnville Center for the Arts is the newest gallery in town and features two glorious floors of regional and national art.

Liquid Light Glassworks, 205 SE Baker: Also three blocks from downtown (to the south), peruse beautiful glass-work in this working studio.

Gallery at Ten Oaks, 801 SW Baker: Half a mile south from downtown on Highway 99W, this beautiful 1908 Craftsman house has been restored and transformed into a lovely space for more than 40 artists. Added bonus: Wine is available.

Check our website for more information on these and other area galleries during your stay in McMinnville!

David Bates is a McMinnville writer who has appeared in Gallery Theater productions since 1998.