Alaska has a unique history and culture that attracts visitors from all over the world. As Alaska experts, we believe one of the best ways to learn about this state and its people is through local art and artists.
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Art can be a great gift idea or souvenir to remind you of your time in the state. Remember to look for the ‘Made in Alaska’ sticker on any art piece you see to verify that it’s authentically local. Whether you’re interested in art by Native Alaskans, transplants, or contemporary pieces, local artists offer so much to explore for both the art novice and aficionado. Here are our four favorite art galleries in Alaska.
Alaska House Art Gallery
Claire Fejes and her husband Joe founded this gallery in 1964 to celebrate the art of Alaska. Located in downtown Fairbanks in a one-of-a-kind 1939 log house, the gallery is now run by Claire’s daughter as a tribute to her mother’s original artistic vision and features works by painters, sculptors, and printmakers. You can enjoy the creations of more than 200 artists, including Claire Fejes herself, Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. There is a special event on the first Friday of every month from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm that kicks off a new exhibit with live music and refreshments.
Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery
The University of Alaska Fairbanks houses this beautiful gallery within its Museum of the North. It boasts 3,700 pieces over a range of 2,000 years — everything from ancient to contemporary. All types of Alaskan artists and art are celebrated here, which makes it an excellent place to learn about the state’s diverse culture. From carvings, photographs, and sculptures, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the Okvik Eskimo ivory carving that dates back 2,000 years or world-famous photos from Ansel Adams. The gallery is open daily from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm June through August, and open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm September through May.
International Gallery of Contemporary Art
As a non-profit organization, IGCA has offered its artists freedom to experiment and push the envelope with their artistic creativity since the early 1980s. The gallery is dedicated to developing new artists and giving all artists the space to express themselves. This means an exciting place for you to check out the cutting-edge of culture after your work shift in Anchorage.
Exhibits are kept fresh with new installations revealed every first Friday of the month from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Regular hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, but keep in mind that it’s closed those days leading up to the monthly first Friday.Aurora Fine Art Gallery
This gallery has been dazzling visitors and locals in downtown Anchorage with a wide variety of Alaskan art since 1990. Owner Diane Louise is passionate about featuring local artists, especially Alaska Native artists, and fostering community within the gallery walls. Aurora, meaning “new beginnings” in Greek, displays paintings, sculptures, photographs, masks, metals, glass, jewelry, and more. As a bonus during your visit, say hello to the resident dog, Norman, behind the counter! Visitors appreciate the authenticity of the pieces and that it’s a family-run shop. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, and also offers monthly first Friday events and shows.
Art is just one of the many rich cultural aspects that Alaska has to offer. Imagine a lodge or hotel job that allows you to fully immerse yourself in local culture and new exhibitions monthly. Take a look at our current job openings to see where your journey can begin.