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Spearfish ArtWalk

Spearfish ArtWalk

Inspired by the spirit of bringing art beyond traditional gallery walls, the Spearfish ArtWalk partners with Main Street businesses to transform downtown into a vibrant, walkable art reception. By bringing together youth artists, local creators, businesses, and neighbors, the ArtWalk celebrates creativity as a shared community experience, turning downtown into a living gallery where art can be discovered, discussed, and enjoyed by all.

The Inaugural ArtWalk, June 2026
Downtown Became the Gallery
  • 60
    works of art on display
  • 15
    community artists exhibited
  • 7
    host locations downtown
  • 9
    days of art all over town

A Walkable Art Reception

Pop-Up Galleries

Main Street storefronts and gathering spaces hang real exhibits, turning the places Spearfish already loves into galleries for the length of the walk.

Opening Receptions

During the opening weekend, host locations welcome visitors to meet the artists, explore new work, and enjoy downtown as one big art reception.

Open to All

An open call invites creators of all ages and experience levels to show their work, from seasoned professionals to first-time exhibitors.

Canyon Hills Visiting Artist Program

The inaugural ArtWalk highlighted a powerful community collaboration through the Canyon Hills Visiting Artist Program, a partnership between the Matthews and Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota at the Canyon Hills Center. Supported in part by an Arts Midwest GIG Grant, the program brings professional artists into the residential center for youth ages 10 to 17. Through bi-weekly sessions, students explore drawing, watercolor, printmaking, poetry, book arts, and mixed media, building confidence, self-expression, and creative problem-solving skills.

Led by managing artist Cary A. Thrall of Creative Explorations Nonprofit and CAT Scratch Studios, the program connects students with professional artists and positive creative mentors throughout the year. Artwork created during these sessions was featured throughout the ArtWalk, giving the public a chance to experience the students’ voices and perspectives in community spaces.

Seven Doors, One Gallery

Henry’s Books
Common Grounds Coffee Shop
Leone’s Creamery
Grace Balloch Memorial Library
Spearfish ClayWorks
The Art Nest Gallery
Matthews Opera House & Arts Center

Seven local businesses and community spaces opened their doors for the inaugural ArtWalk, showcasing regional artists throughout downtown Spearfish.

The Walk Continues

Show your work

The next open call will be announced on our Artist Opportunities page and on our social channels. Creators of all ages and experience levels are welcome.

See Artist Opportunities

Open your doors

Hosting artwork turns your space into part of the town’s gallery. Reach Tia Erin, Visual Arts Coordinator, at [email protected].

Get in Touch