Homer is known throughout Alaska as the state's premier artist community, home to dozens of galleries and artists. You'll find a convenient cluster of galleries worth visiting along "Gallery Row," the stretch of Pioneer Avenue between Main Street and Lake Street. Here are three we like.
Picture Alaska
Picture Alaska (448 E. Pioneer Ave.) features original paintings and fine art prints by notable local artists. This diverse gallery also displays pottery, jewelry, mixed media sculpture, scenic and wildlife photos, as well as a collection of over 350 vintage Alaskan photographs. Check out their selection of genuine Alaskan Native art and crafts. Shipping of purchases is available.
Ptarmigan Arts
Heading east on Pioneer to Ptarmigan Arts (471 E. Pioneer Ave.; 907-235-5345), peruse a wide range of jewelry, batiks, paintings, photography, pottery, woodworking, and many other mediums. This artists' co-op features a good cross-section of what the Homer art community has to offer.
Fireweed Gallery
Just next door to Ptarmigan Arts, the Fireweed Gallery (475 E. Pioneer Ave., #A) houses work of Alaskan artists and craftsmen in a spacious new building, complete with soaring ceilings and eight-foot glass doors. Enjoy art exhibitions, readings, and other events throughout the year. As the home gallery of the Kachemak Bay Watercolor Society, the Fireweed also displays an ever-changing selection of members' works.
Bunnell Street Gallery
While not located on the main gallery drag, the Bunnell Street Gallery (106 W. Bunnell St., Suite A) is within walking distance of Pioneer Avenue and definitely worth a stop. At this non-profit organization, the appreciation and advancement of art takes top priority over sales and revenue. Their most famous fundraiser is the "Plate Project," an exhibition of one-of-a-kind handmade ceramic plates, available to gallery members who join at the $100 level. Over 50 artists contribute to this showcase of local talent, creating innovative, interesting art while also supporting the gallery. The gallery exhibits month-long shows of contemporary fine art and crafts that include a wide variety of media. Bunnell Street also serves as a forum for concerts, artist's lectures, writer's readings, and other events.
