Anchorage is a young city with a fascinating past, which has evolved into a sophisticated urban arts and cultural center. Muses are many in a place of such beauty.
Local artists put their work on display the first Friday of each month during First Friday Art Walk Galleries, cafés, and other art venues around Anchorage keep their doors open late for gallery-hoppers, providing beverages or appetizers and a thoroughly enjoyable evening. A map of participating galleries in the year-round event is printed in the Thursday edition of the Anchorage Press.
Alaska Native artists demonstrate and sell their work at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, inviting guests to ask questions and learn about art forms and traditions. Open daily in summer and weekends in winter, this cultural center is committed to preserving Alaska Native cultures for future generations, providing an authentic look at Alaska Native life from all perspectives.
Seven galleries in the Anchorage Museum feature an exquisite collection of art that reflects Alaska and the circumpolar North. Marvel at large-scale landscape paintings, works by contemporary Alaska artists and an entire gallery of paintings by Sydney Laurence – arguably Alaska's most famous artist. The Museum also hosts a number of arts events throughout the year including Summer Art Potpourri – a summer-long showcase featuring a revolving roster of Alaska artists.
A Museum without Walls
Alaska pioneered 1% for Art Program, which requires 1 percent of all public construction budgets be spent on permanent public art installations. In Anchorage, there are more than 400 pieces of public art on display from Eklutna to Girdwood.
One of the most stunning works of public art is “Constellation,” a 65-foot, shimmering cascade depicting indigenous Alaska mammals and sea creatures located in the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center lobby atrium near Seventh Avenue and E Street. The interpretative sculpture, inspired by Dena’ina fish traps, culminates 15 feet above the main entry, where a floor of forest fall leaves are engraved in bronze tile. It is just one of several pieces of art at the Dena’ina Center depicting the land, people and animals of the Dena’ina Athabascan people – the first residents of the Anchorage area.
Now that's Bazaar!
Anchorage is a central gathering spot for Alaska artists to sell their one-of-a-kind wares. Knock out some serious holiday shopping with a weekend in Anchorage during the festive fall bazaar season, October through December. Independent artists also sell their arts and crafts throughout the year at festivals, outdoor markets and juried art competitions. Visit the Anchorage Calendar of Events for specific dates.
