It’s a calm Monday in Tahoe; perfect for a relaxing day off. I leave my Tahoe City home looking to do something exciting yet peaceful. What better than to stroll around town looking at art? The fall weather is a perfect reason to stop by Tahoe City’s Sips, where you can select your own beer or wine from the diverse market and then have it poured into a mason jar to sip in the tiny, cozy bar there. One quick drink is enough to warm up a little before heading into the chill air and popping over to the Eadington Gallery next door. This place is filled with stunning photos of the region printed on glass, so they’re glossy and high-contrast. Some favorites are the glorious peach, red, blue, and purple sunset-over-the-lake photos, showing the calm water and brilliant sky. A handful of helpful and knowledgeable artists work here, who can custom frame any print you choose with great quality wood. If you’re an art lover like me, here are a few tips and a few of my favorite places in Tahoe to go see the incredible things our local artists have created.
1. Time your stroll
Like I did, heading to town on a snowy Monday is a great time to go see art. Most people will be on the slopes, or only visit on the weekend, so you’ll have a peaceful opportunity to stroll around and really look! Truckee’s Art Obsessions Gallery and Wine Bar is a great place to spend some time. Have a glass of wine and take your time looking at the incredible paintings and local glass-blown works here.
2. Get Crafty
If making art excites you, there are several places around Tahoe that allow you to participate. One great place is All Fired Up! in Tahoe City’s Cobblestone Center, where you can drop by anytime and select your own craft project, from ceramics to succulent gardening. It’s BYOB too, so bring a friend and plan to hang out, or head there for a causal yet romantic date. Another favorite is Truckee’s Atelier, an art and knitting shop offering DIY classes. For in-depth lessons or long-term classes, check out the Sierra Nevada College’s offering of workshops and classes, including a great ceramics session, in Incline Village.
3. Check the Locals' Favorite Spots
North Tahoe Arts Gift Shop and Gallery — Tahoe City
This place offers a great selection of local art. As a local non-profit, they’re also a great resource to get connected with seasonal art classes and programs around the area. If you have children, check out the Kids Art Camp offerings as well as Kids Classes!
Joanne’s Stained Glass and Gallery — Truckee
This is one of the most unique places to view art in Truckee because it is almost entirely filled with stained and hand-blown glass. Pieces are lit up and glittering under display lights, giving the shop a magical feeling.
Gallery Keoki — Squaw Valley
Keoki Flagg’s impressive gallery is not only well presented but full of stunning photographs that depict the Tahoe lifestyle. In particular, his series of photos of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows’ ski patrol dogs depicts light, fun images of the canines on the iconic ski slopes. Purchasing one of these mounted prints would add great character to any Tahoe home.