Spring Into The Downtown Edmonds Arts Scene

Whether you’re a professional painter or haven’t picked up a brush since third grade, Edmonds is calling you into the creative light this spring. As Washington State’s first-ever Certified Creative District, we’re a gathering place for artists, makers, and curious humans tapping into their creative side. And this season, there’s never been a better time to dive in.

You don’t need to commit to a semester-long class to experience the Downtown Edmonds arts scene. Drop in for an evening, wander into a gallery, discover public art, and sip wine while you paint. Art in Edmonds is accessible, whimsical, community-focused, and downright fun.

Start at Gateway Canopy

Before you do anything else, head to Anway Park, right by the ferry holding lanes, to see “Gateway Canopy,” the stunning 14-foot-tall sculpture installed in March. California artist Sean Orlando designed this architectural canopy inspired by tree limbs, and it’s absolutely worth a look—whether you’re waiting for the ferry or intentionally making the trip. 

Stuck in the ferry line? Walk over and check it out. The sculpture marks the western entrance to Washington’s first Creative District and jumpstarts your exploration of all of Downtown Edmonds’ public art, which lives in our parks, our streets, and our everyday.

Paint, Sip, Create

Sunlight Gallery + Studio is set to host “Evergreen,” a Paint + Sip evening on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 5:00–7:30pm. Join PNW fine artist and gallery owner Laura Burkhart for an evening of creativity and connection filled with wine and charcuterie from local favorite Virtue Cellars (which has a tasting room right up the road at Main Street Commons). Laura will guide you through her Painted Peaks Workshop as you learn to paint Mount Rainier on a misty, grey morning with a touch of sunlight. You’ll discover color mixing, composition, and Laura’s mountain painting technique—plus a metallic touch to make your piece literally shine. Everything you need is provided. No experience necessary.

Celebrate Watercolor & Local Makers

The Paper Feather invites you to a special evening on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 5–7pm to celebrate the release of “Watercolor with Me: Flower Fairies” with a meet-and-greet featuring author Sarah Simon of The Mint Gardener. Join in for a whimsical evening of conversation, celebration, and connection with one of our favorite watercolor artists. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover new art inspiration and support small businesses.

Mosey Through Year-Round

Art Walk happens every third Thursday from 5–8pm, bringing together galleries, studios, and artists across all mediums. It’s a free way to explore the Edmonds creative community, discover new artists, and maybe even find your next instructor or creative collaborator. Check the Art Walk website to search for specific artists or learn about the dozens of creative spaces around town.

Edmonds Arts Festival, now in its 66th year, returns every Father’s Day weekend (June 15–17 this year) at Frances Anderson Center. This epic gathering brings together artists of all ages and stages, featuring live demonstrations, vendor booths, performances, and inspiration for days. It’s the perfect place to see what’s possible when you invest in your creative practice.

Graphite Arts Center

For ongoing classes and workshops, explore options at Adventures in Art (through the City of Edmonds), ARTspot, ArtWorks, Cascadia Art Museum, Cole Gallery and Studio, Graphite Arts Center, and more. Each offers different mediums, skill levels, ages, and styles—from oil painting and watercolor to mixed media, sketching, and beyond. Many also have gift cards if you’re looking to inspire someone else’s creativity.

Where Will Your Art Adventures Take You? 

“Aosagi” by Shogo Ota with Urban Artworks at 111 4th Ave N

The Edmonds arts scene is alive—and it’s waiting for you. Whether you take a class, attend an evening workshop, wander during Art Walk, or sit under “Gateway Canopy” and soak in the creative energy of your community, you’re part of something special.

Share the art you’re discovering, the classes you’re taking, and the creative moments you’re making with us by tagging @edmondsdowntown on Instagram and Facebook. We can’t wait to see where your art adventures—and a little more whimsy—take you.

By Whitney Popa, photos by Matt Hulbert