People's Art of Portland

Fun fact: the space now occupied by this contemporary gallery used to be a toy store, and there's a youthful energy to the place because of it. Nooks of art, brightly colored seats carved out of the walls and windows--it's refreshing for an art gallery. A woman who is setting the world record for number of paper cranes made was working behind the counter. And the art was everything from small, contemporary sculptures to breathtaking music posters for monumental underground bands. It was, to say the least, one of the best gallery experiences I've had in a long time. Definitely check it out.

Art in a mall?? Wow, what a great way to bring art to the masses. It was very cool art too. Rock posters and some mixed media. It was really fun to stop in and browse. Being from Chicago, I miss all the great museums. Portland is seriously lacking in that, but then they have gems like this in a mall. Pretty cool. I'll be back to check out what they have and hopefully it's rotated often.

Warning to artists who show here...you may not get paid. I was part of a group show where the proceeds went to a good cause. The artist just received a small cut, and the rest went to local food banks. That seemed great. After the show I went to pick up the pieces that hadn't sold and there was a mix up and the manager didn't have a check for me. I understand with so many artists that things happen and she said to email the owner. I did that and got a response of "I will get that fixed." I was cooperative and understanding. The show was in Dec 2013 it is now June 2014...I have sent emails, called the owners cell and left messages, no response, checked in with the manager and she essentially said that the owner had to handle it. I would wait a month and then shoot him another email or call to just check in...no response. I have shown on town and elsewhere and never had such a hard time and lack of communication. I understand big shows and it is hard to get everything perfect but at least 6 monthes later you might have figured it out? I am recommending to anyone wanting to sell their art at this gallery to think twice.

The Art was cool and there were many nice pieces. It was the poor and insensitive treatment both when I was there by one of the co-owners and in subsequent contacts with the other. Not nice people.