Celebrate 48 years of creativity at Sandpoint’s beloved ArtWalk

By Reader Staff

Now in its 48th year, Pend Oreille Arts Council’s Annual ArtWalk returns to downtown Sandpoint on Friday, June 13, with festive opening receptions from 5-8 p.m. The event features 27 participating venues, each paired with a local or regional artist to showcase original work all summer. Held every summer since 1977, ArtWalk has become one of Sandpoint’s most cherished community traditions.

“It feels like the unofficial kickoff to summer,” said POAC Visual Arts Coordinator Claire Christy. “Locals come out to support their friends and neighbors, and there’s this beautiful mix of familiar faces and new ones. Every year I hear people saying ‘Happy ArtWalk!’ and it fills me with joy. It’s like a big family reunion where we all emerge from winter to celebrate the arts and this town we love.”

“Black Cherry Bear” by POAC Artist of the Year Jenni Barry.

Each location will host a unique exhibition and offer light refreshments, with several venues planning special experiences for opening night. 

One exciting newcomer, AM Gallery, will feature the Ross

A map of the participating ArtWalk venues in Sandpoint. Courtesy image

Hall Collection alongside live jazz guitar and a wine tasting. At Sotheby’s International Realty on Second Avenue, visitors will find Randy Wilhelm’s whimsical Sandpoint Series, which has become a beloved visual tribute to the community. Lake Life Wellness, now in a brand-new location on Main Street, is showcasing the flowing watercolors of Jean Spinosa. At the POAC Gallery, art lovers can view work by Jenni Barry, recently named 2025 POAC Artist of the Year.

Beyond the art, ArtWalk serves as a powerful connector between artists, businesses and the public.

“It takes a village,” Christy explained. “POAC is the catalyst that brings the venues and artists together. I try to create ideal pairings, matching the art to the vibe of the business, so everyone involved feels seen. It’s a lot of work, but I love every minute of it.”

The event continues to evolve year after year, with new venues joining and fresh talent stepping into the spotlight. For businesses, it’s a way to become more rooted in the creative culture of Sandpoint. For artists, it’s an opportunity to share their work with a broader audience, often sparking new relationships, connections or sales. 

Printed ArtWalk brochures, complete with a map, artist listings and venue details, are available now at all participating venues and the POAC Gallery (313 N. Second Ave.). A digital version of the brochure, as well as full event details, can be found at artinsandpoint.org/ArtWalk.

Exhibitions will remain on display through August, giving residents and visitors ample time to enjoy the work and explore downtown Sandpoint at their own pace. 

For more information, contact POAC at poacasst1@gmail.com, poactivities@gmail.com or 208-263-6139.