Hoffman Gallery

The Hoffman Gallery, on the campus of the Oregon College of Art & Craft, is an affordable way to experience innovative and modern art. While much of Portland’s art scene lies in the Pearl District and other closer-in neighborhoods, the Hoffman Gallery proves that there are many galleries that offer quality art even if they are a little off the beaten path.

Located west of downtown, it is actually quite convenient despite its geographic distance from downtown. While some GPS systems and maps will tell you take Highway 26, the more scenic route is to follow Burnside Street. The street will wind you through the scenic West Hills and guides you right to the museum. A nice journey especially for visitors to Portland.

The gallery is named after the college’s founder, Julia Hoffman. According the website, exhibitions “are selected to reflect current trends in the arts, as well as the historical and cultural aspects of art and craft.” Each exhibition is used to promote and create dialogue among the viewers.  When at the museum, it is hard to not have an opinion or strike up a conversation about the art on display.

Currently on exhibit is the graduation exhibit. It is a must-see show to see where art may be headed in the next few years. Full of fresh, creative energy, you will see why the college is regarded highly in the local community. In the summer exhibit (July 1-July 28) is Vanishing Landscapes by James B. Thompson. This exhibit is a series of abstract paintings and prints which “focus on the vanishing iconic landscape that nostalgically characterizes the American experience.”

If you have an aspiring artist as a child, a visit to the Hoffman Gallery can also make a good first impression of the Oregon College of Art & Craft in general. You will see on display the art which is made by students and through it, the quality of the courses that are taught.

The gallery can also be a perfect complimentary visit to exploring the west part of the Portland metro area. While the towering hills west of downtown are filled with parks and outdoor activities, the Hoffman Gallery lets you escape inside and see wonderful modern art. Unlike commercial galleries, the Hoffman Gallery feels like a truly merit-based space where the best art is on the walls.

HelloPortland Tip: Want to see art on Mondays? While most other galleries are closed, the Hoffman is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm

- by William Crane, Portland Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

William Crane

William Crane is an accomplished print and online journalist (http://www.william-crane.com) His work covers a variety of topics including features, local community news, sports, music, and political/social issues. Graduating from Seattle University with a B.A. in Journalism, William's writing has appeared in a variety of different publications including the Stranger, Capitol Hill Times, the Skanner, Backfire Magazine, and the Internationalist.