Does Florence, Oregon, have art? You bet!
Whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration, an art lover, an art student, or an art collector in search of the perfect piece for home or office, Florence, Oregon, should be next on your list.
Along our rugged Oregon Coast, Florence offers a rich tapestry of public art, fine art galleries, craft co-ops, inspiring wall murals, and well-stocked art supply stores—making it a creative haven for those who see the world through color, form, and texture.
How To Find Art in Florence? Follow the Florence Public Art Trail
Florence’s public art is everywhere. The Florence Public Art Trail winds through Historic Old Town and beyond, showcasing murals, sculptures, art benches, mosaics, and kinetic art that reflect coastal culture, Native American history, marine life, and artistic whimsy and passion. It’s a self-guided walking tour filled with Instagram-worthy moments and a wonderful way for couples, families, photographers, art students, and their instructors to explore Florence. Pick up a map at our office, 290 Highway 101 in Florence!
The City of Florence Art Exposed program rotates outdoor art every two years, placing large-scale sculptural works by local and regional artists in public spaces throughout Historic Old Town, extending up Highway 101 to the intersection with Highway 126, and in other important community locations.
These public artworks are for sale during their two-year display periods; artists are paid stipends, and sales help reinvest in Florence’s thriving public art program.
Why Florence is a Destination for Art Lovers & Collectors
- Variety: From fine art painting and glass to sculpture, murals, and live theater.
- Accessibility: Free public art, walkable Old Town galleries, and community classes.
- Community: Cooperative galleries, FRAA workshops, and artist receptions foster connections.
- Natural Inspiration: The Siuslaw River, dunes, ocean, and ancient forests are constant muses.
- Collectability: Rotating exhibits, limited-edition works, and regional art make Florence a collector’s delight.
How to Plan Your Visit
- Pick up an art trail map at the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, 290 Highway 101.
- Visit during Second Saturday Gallery Walks for receptions and meet-the-artist events.
- Explore FRAA and Dragon Art for classes, exhibits, and community events.
- Check the calendar at EventCenter.org for upcoming performances.
- Stock up on supplies at BeauxArts Fine Art Supplies.
- End your day with a seafood or Northwest fusion dinner and a live performance at the FEC.
What Can I Expect To Find For Art in Florence?
Public Art Installations in Florence, Oregon
Along with the multitude of art galleries, sculptures, and murals, Florence also displays many public art installations, including:
- “Transformation” by Paul Reimer, 1252 Bay Street (Siuslaw River Interpretive Park)
- “Sitting Wave Part II” by Jesse Swickard, 1240 Bay Street
- “West Coast Overlook” by Jesse Swickard, 1252 Bay Street (Siuslaw River Interpretive Park)
- “Bridgeport Girl” by Mack Holman, 75 Harbor Street (at Bridgeport Market)
- “Cascade” by David Miller, 989 Spruce Street (Gallagher Park) at Highway 126
- “Totem Pole” by Steve Benson, (also at Gallagher Park)
- “Horse Sculpture” by several unnamed Kenyan artists, 1570 Kingwood Street (outside the Florence Senior Center)
- “Joy,” a woman passionately hugs a book to her chest. 1460 9th Street (Siuslaw Public Library)
Wall Murals in Florence, Oregon
Florence also boasts several captivating wall murals, such as:
- “Got Sand?” by Rosy Clark is located at 249 Highway 101 (on the south wall of The Sportsman sporting goods store)
- “Sea Life Mural” by Mark Storaasli is at 1498 Bay Street (on the side of ICM Restaurant)
- “Florence Scenic Column” is a series of painted tiles by Kat Cunningham on the Port of Siuslaw Boardwalk, located at the corner of Nopal & Bay streets.
- “Stitching Time, Weaving Cultures,” by Marino-Heidel Studios, celebrates folk arts and speaks to cultural interchange by including iconic imagery from the Siuslaw region presented in a colorful, modern style, located on the east wall of the Central Lincoln Public Utilities building, corner of Highway 126 and Quince Street.
Galleries & Studios in Florence, Oregon
Where Fine Art Can Follow You Home
Florence’s galleries are gems for collectors, students, and casual browsers alike. Here are some you shouldn’t miss:
Backstreet Gallery Co-op
1421 Bay Street — A cooperative of more than 30 local artists, offering everything from oils and watercolors to fused glass, fiber arts, and jewelry.
1385 Bay Street — Ocean-themed fine art, paintings, and sculpture with maritime inspiration.
Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center & Art Gallery
290 Highway 101
Inside the Florence Chamber Visitor Center, visitors will also find rotating exhibits of local art. It’s a perfect place to begin your art walk: pick up maps, get event details, and enjoy artwork that celebrates Florence’s landscapes and creative spirit.
Florence Events Center Gallery
715 Quince Street
The Florence Events Center (FEC) hosts a rotating schedule of art exhibits in its lobby gallery. These shows highlight regional and local artists, with mediums ranging from photography and painting to textile and mixed media. Exhibits change monthly, making it a must-visit stop for repeat visitors and collectors scouting fresh works.
Florence Regional Arts Alliance (FRAA)
120 Maple Street
The Florence Regional Arts Alliance is a hub for creative expression. FRAA offers exhibits, art classes, and workshops for all ages and skill levels, making it an especially great stop for art students or anyone eager to learn. Their gallery showcases local artists across a wide range of media—watercolor, oils, photography, ceramics, jewelry, fiber arts, and more.
FRAA also hosts special events like themed shows, plein air paint-outs, and community art celebrations. Visitors can browse for unique works to take home while connecting directly with Florence’s vibrant artist community.
148 Maple Street, Suite B
Serene Abundance is a “home for creative healing.” It is both an art studio and the place Serena Appel has her working art space, where she practices both counseling and creative therapy. Appel regularly opens up her gallery during Florence’s Second Saturday Gallery Tour, as well as for scheduled studio space.
1368 Bay Street
Pottery, jewelry, painting, and sculpture with natural textures of wood, stone, and coastal elements.
1335 Bay Street
Mixed media, photography, ceramics, blown glass, woodwork, jewelry, and stained glass by Pacific Northwest artists.
1395 Bay Street
Wind Drift was established more than 40 years ago and is located in Old Town Florence along the Siuslaw River. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the award-winning chocolates, candies, and caramel corn located in the front end of the T-shirt gallery, and then stepping through the center threshold to enjoy the many local, regional, and world-renowned craft and jewelry artists.
1460 9th Street
The Siuslaw Public Library hosts a monthly themed community art show. Visitors can go to the library’s website for the upcoming month’s theme and find more information on how to participate. The library also plays host to “Stories of the Sea,” which is a tile mosaic done by members of Florence’s community.
Art Supplies & Creative Resources in Florence, Oregon
BeauxArts Fine Art Materials & Gallery
2285 Highway 101, Suite H — Florence’s go-to resource for artists and students. BeauxArts stocks paints, brushes, canvases, pencils, specialty papers, and more, along with a gallery space and workshops. Knowledgeable staff can help beginners and professionals alike find the right tools.
Dragon Art Company
520 Laurel St.
Dragon Art offers art and craft classes and camps in addition to henna and mehndi, tattoos, gifts, and a monthly craft subscription box for kids and adults.
Performing Arts at the Florence Events Center
715 Quince Street
Visual art is just one part of Florence’s cultural fabric—the Florence Events Center (FEC) is the region’s hub for live performance art, as well as having an art gallery inside.
What You Can See At The FEC
- C.R.O.W. (Children’s Repertory of Oregon Workshops) brings youth theater productions, dance recitals, and creative showcases that engage the whole community.
- The Last Resort Players stage thought-provoking plays and comedies, drawing theater enthusiasts from across Oregon. Florence is home to many big-city performers and stage crafters who have retired to our area, so local plays and concerts are several notches above other similarly-sized towns’ community theater productions.
- Florence Arts, Culture & Entertainment (FACE) supports concerts, festivals, and unique performing arts and cultural events (it’s in their name after all) that enrich Florence’s entertainment calendar.
- The FEC also hosts regional, national, and international touring shows, classical and contemporary concerts, and cultural performances year-round. For art lovers, combining an in-house gallery stroll with an evening of live theater or music at the FEC makes for a truly memorable cultural getaway.
The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum
278 Maple Street
This museum plays host to a variety of information, displays, and historical items about the Siuslaw River Area. Along with the art located inside, the museum’s patio is home to a large mural that depicts various aspects of the region’s history. The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum also has a volunteer acting troupe that portrays historically accurate skits during local events.
Florence, Oregon is more than a beach town—it’s a thriving art destination. Whether you’re a collector, an art student, or simply a curious explorer, you’ll find Florence brimming with creativity and community.
Come discover why our coastal town is truly Oregon’s Coastal Playground for the Arts.
Our thanks to The City of Florence, River House Inn—Baymont by Windham, the Florence Events Center, the Siuslaw Public Library; Travel Lane County/ Eugene, Cascades & Coast; ChatGPT, Arrow’s Edge Marketing Communications, and artists all over Florence for their contributions to this article.
