Sun Valley Art Scene: Top 5 Cultural Spots to Visit
Sun Valley, very known for its incredible skiing and outdoor recreation, is also, in some respects, really something of a surprise when it comes to its flourishing art and culture scene. So, it’s almost a place where the rugged outdoors actually meets refined artistic expression. From sophisticated galleries to pretty unique performance spaces, this little mountain town could be described as a hub for creative souls. But, where do you even begin if you’re looking to experience it all? I want to give you my little guide, showcasing the top five spots that give Sun Valley its artistic heartbeat.
1. Sun Valley Museum of Art (SVMoA)
You might say that your first stop really should be the Sun Valley Museum of Art, frequently called SVMoA. It’s virtually the centerpiece of Sun Valley’s cultural offerings. Rather than only focusing on visual art, SVMoA brings a complete array of programming that includes visual arts exhibitions, performances, and educational workshops. Actually, their exhibitions can vary greatly, offering a range of art that you just have to see, spanning contemporary pieces to historical collections. It’s so much more than a museum. The educational component is something else, hosting talks with artists, hands-on workshops, and family days, too. Because of this, SVMoA helps to really grow a passion for the arts right through the community. That they actually do it so well makes it a jewel in Sun Valley’s crown.
Read our full review: Sun Valley Museum of Art Full Review and Details
SVMoA is almost always having interesting programs, just take a peek at what they are currently showing!
- Address: 191 5th St E, Ketchum, ID 83340
- Hours: Varies by season and exhibition; check their website for current details.
- Admission: Usually free, but it’s sometimes different for special events, so check first.
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2. Gail Severn Gallery
Are you a real art enthusiast? Then you’ll for sure be interested in visiting the Gail Severn Gallery, you see. It shows artwork of a truly elevated kind and, over the years, it has come to be really a vital part of the art scene in Sun Valley. Instead of sticking to art of a certain type or style, the Gail Severn Gallery really is committed to presenting an eclectic mix, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media work, too. Usually, these works come from established and upcoming artists. So, the gallery really offers something for people from all different art persuasions. What sets Gail Severn apart? It seems to me to be its care for the relationship it creates, between the artwork, the space and the viewer. You’ll feel this from the second you step through the front door.
Read our full review: Gail Severn Gallery Full Review and Details
- Address: 400 1st Ave N, Ketchum, ID 83340
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM (seasonal variations possible)
- Admission: Free.
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3. Sun Valley Center for the Arts Company
Performing arts are something you appreciate right? I might just know the spot. Very close to SVMoA, there is the Sun Valley Center for the Arts Company, usually puts on theater, dance, and musical productions of various kinds. With its programming for the year, you’re going to find that they offer everything. Right through plays by famous writers, from times gone by, to performances from new, innovative musicians. And you could find something from local community groups as well. It has become the meeting place where artists and audiences interact, which is why Sun Valley Center brings performances to a wide variety of locations across the Wood River Valley.
Read our full review: Sun Valley Center for the Arts Company Full Review and Details
- Address: Performances are held at various locations; check their schedule for details.
- Hours: Show times depend on the performance.
- Admission: Ticket prices vary, purchase in advance, that’s what I would do.
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4. Gilman Contemporary
Have you been wanting to get yourself immersed in really modern and abstract visual art? Well then you will no doubt just love Gilman Contemporary. Arguably a favorite among collectors looking for contemporary pieces, the Gilman focuses mainly on displaying pieces of a daring and imaginative style, with artists working in all types of medium. The vibe in the gallery makes art even more impressive. They’re able to put on displays that urge you to look beyond the norm and engage with art on a more deeper, more feeling kind of level, I would say. Any art aficionado looking to be stimulated or stirred should, in that case, include Gilman Contemporary in their tour around Sun Valley.
Read our full review: Gilman Contemporary Full Review and Details
- Address: 661 Sun Valley Rd, Ketchum, ID 83340
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM
- Admission: Free.
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5. Kneeland Gallery
Wanting more of a local style? So, if that’s what you’re after then it might just make sense to check out the Kneeland Gallery. The gallery gives great prominence to artists whose work concentrates on capturing the landscape and lifestyle of the American West. They focus mostly on paintings. And you could find landscapes that stir memories. The artwork shown by Kneeland tends towards an artistic type that feels timeless, celebrating both traditional styles, with newer influences. And, as a matter of fact, that very approach allows the gallery to really connect with locals as well as people from all round the country. This gallery is going to strike a chord with someone keen to discover some beautiful pieces inspired by the majestic landscapes surrounding Sun Valley.
Read our full review: Kneeland Gallery Full Review and Details
- Address: 271 First Ave. North, Ketchum, ID, 83340
- Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5:30pm
- Admission: Free.
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