Bellevue, Idaho may be a small town with a population of just over 2,000 people, but it is home to a thriving community of artists. Nestled in the picturesque Wood River Valley, Bellevue is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. But what many people may not know is that this charming town also hosts several events and festivals that celebrate and showcase the talents of local artists.
The Bellevue Artist Alliance
The Bellevue Artist Alliance (BAA) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2009 with the goal of promoting and supporting the arts in Bellevue and the surrounding areas. The BAA has over 50 members, including painters, sculptors, photographers, and other visual artists. One of the main events organized by the BAA is the annual Bellevue Art Fair.This two-day event takes place in July and features over 100 artists from all over the country. Visitors can browse and purchase a wide variety of art, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and more. The fair also includes live music, food vendors, and activities for children. The BAA also hosts Art in the Park, a free outdoor art show that takes place every August. This event showcases the work of local artists and provides a platform for them to interact with the community.
Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and a beer garden while browsing through the various art booths.
The Sun Valley Center for the Arts
Located just a short drive from Bellevue, the Sun Valley Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization that has been promoting arts and culture in the Wood River Valley for over 50 years. The center offers a wide range of programs and events, including exhibitions, performances, and educational workshops. One of the most highly anticipated events organized by the Sun Valley Center for the Arts is the Sun Valley Arts & Crafts Festival. Held in August, this three-day festival features over 130 artists from all over the country. Visitors can browse and purchase unique handcrafted items, including jewelry, pottery, woodwork, and more.The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and a beer and wine garden. The center also hosts Art on Fourth, a free outdoor art show that takes place every September in downtown Ketchum. This event features over 100 artists showcasing their work in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Visitors can also enjoy live music and food vendors while strolling through the art booths.
The Wood River Valley Studio Tour
Every October, the Wood River Valley Studio Tour gives art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to visit the studios of local artists and see their creative process firsthand. This self-guided tour allows visitors to meet the artists, ask questions, and purchase their work directly from the source. The tour includes over 30 artists working in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, and more.It is a great way to support local artists and get a behind-the-scenes look at their work.
Art Classes and Workshops
In addition to these annual events and festivals, there are also various art classes and workshops available in Bellevue throughout the year. The BAA offers classes in painting, drawing, printmaking, and more for both adults and children. The Sun Valley Center for the Arts also offers a wide range of classes and workshops for all ages, including painting, photography, and ceramics. These classes and workshops not only provide a creative outlet for the community but also give artists the opportunity to learn new techniques and improve their skills.Supporting the Local Art Scene
The events and festivals celebrating artists in Bellevue not only provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work but also contribute to the town's economy. These events attract visitors from all over the country, who not only support the artists but also spend money in local businesses. Moreover, these events also help to foster a sense of community and pride in the local art scene.They bring people together and showcase the talent and creativity that exists in this small town.
