Bellingham’s art scene is thriving. From long-standing galleries to cooperative markets and community art hubs, our city is packed with talented creatives producing everything from fine art paintings and sculpture to modern mixed media and handcrafted design. Whether you’re looking to invest in local artwork, meet working artists, or simply explore something inspiring on a rainy afternoon, these are the places and artists worth watching.
Below are local galleries, studios, and art spaces that are currently open and actively showcasing Bellingham talent.
Galleries & Art Spaces Showcasing Local Talent
Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden
Why Visit: A destination gallery representing over 400 artisans, many from Whatcom County. You’ll find sculpture, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, glass art, and Pacific Northwest–inspired fine art in a beautiful garden setting overlooking the bay.
Location: 700 Chuckanut Dr N, Bellingham, WA 98229
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Website: https://www.chuckanutbaygallery.com
Whatcom Art Market
Why Visit: One of the largest cooperative galleries in the region, featuring 40+ local artists. The collection includes painting, photography, textiles, sculpture, jewelry, and more. Artists frequently host demonstrations, making it easy to connect with the creators themselves.
Location: 1103 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Website: https://www.whatcomartmarket.org
Allied Arts of Whatcom County
Why Visit: A cornerstone of the local arts community for decades. Allied Arts hosts rotating exhibitions that spotlight regional artists and often features emerging voices alongside established professionals.
Location: 1213 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Website: https://www.alliedarts.org
Gallery West
Why Visit: Established in 1973, Gallery West is one of the West Coast’s long-standing contemporary art and craft galleries. It represents both emerging and nationally recognized Northwest artists across multiple mediums.
Location: 1300 12th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Monday–Saturday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
Website: http://www.artgallerywest.com
Cordata Gallery
Why Visit: A community-focused gallery in north Bellingham that features rotating exhibitions from regional painters, sculptors, and mixed-media artists. A quieter, intimate space that’s ideal for discovering new talent.
Location: 465 W Stuart Rd, Bellingham, WA 98226
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Website: http://www.cordatagallery.com
Western Gallery (Western Washington University)
Why Visit: Located on the WWU campus, Western Gallery showcases student artists and regional exhibitions. It’s an excellent place to discover emerging creatives before they gain wider recognition.
Location: 516 High St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Website: https://westerngallery.wwu.edu
Artwood Gallery
Why Visit: Located in Fairhaven, Artwood Gallery features local fine art and contemporary craft. The collection regularly rotates, making each visit a little different from the last.
Location: 1000 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Website: http://www.artwoodgallery.com
Creative Hubs & Studio Spaces
Whatcom Art Center
Why Visit: A growing community art hub in Fairhaven featuring exhibitions, artist studios, workshops, and events. It’s a dynamic space where you can meet working artists and see new work in progress.
Location: 1105 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Daily 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Website: https://whatcomartcenter.org
BellinghamART
Why Visit: An art school and exhibition space offering painting, drawing, and mixed media classes. Student exhibitions often highlight up-and-coming local talent and the next generation of creatives.
Location: 1701 Ellis St, Suite 201, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Website: https://www.bellinghamart.com
Trish Harding School of Art at Studio UFO
Why Visit: An intimate studio offering classes and exhibitions. A great way to connect directly with working artists and see original pieces in progress.
Location: 301 W Holly St, Suite M4, Bellingham, WA 98225
Independent Artists & Specialty Galleries
Sharon Kingston Art Studio and Gallery
Why Visit: Sharon Kingston is known for her atmospheric Pacific Northwest landscapes. Her studio provides a chance to view and purchase work directly from the artist.
Location: 203 Prospect St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: By appointment or posted hours
Website: http://www.sharonkingston.com
Fourth Corner Frames
Why Visit: While known for expert custom framing, Fourth Corner also showcases original work from regional artists in its gallery space. A great place to discover art in a curated environment.
Location: 301 W Holly St, Suite D-3, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Website: http://www.fourthcornerframes.com
Little Free Art Gallery Bellingham
Why Visit: A tiny but creative outdoor gallery featuring rotating local artwork. It’s always open and offers a fun, accessible way to engage with community art.
Location: West St & Eldridge Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Open 24/7
Website: https://www.katrinalyon.com/little-free-gallery
Final Thoughts
Bellingham has always punched above its weight when it comes to creativity. From Fairhaven galleries to downtown studios and campus exhibitions, there’s no shortage of artists producing meaningful, locally rooted work. If you’re looking for original art, an inspiring afternoon, or simply a way to support the local creative economy, these are the artists and spaces to watch.
