What's the Move? — Pioneer Square Art Walk (March)
There have been so many times when I’ve shown up for the First Thursday art walk with no plans.
Just concepts... of plans.
Those nights end up so fun with little to no planning, but I always miss things: a gallery where you can speak to the artist, the free wine, or a tattoo pop-up.
That’s why I’m starting What’s the Move? I know how to catch a vibe, and I want to give you a curated rundown of the galleries, events, and other happenings at art walk.
Here’s what’s on my radar for March.
Gallery openings
Visual Symphony II — Scott Gibson
Scott Gibson has synesthesia and this show is a chance to see what music looks like through his eyes.
Stephen J. Walker — Studio Tour (Book Launch)
A longtime Seattle artist who has documented the city for decades through photos, stories, and illustrations. Come get a quick history lesson.
Beauty Shop Collective — Party Mix
A collective of women artists showing together for the first time. The work is colorful, playful, and experimental, with lots of interesting proportions and shapes. The whole concept is that the mix of styles makes the “party.”
Everything, Everywhere, All at Once — Foster/White Gallery
Foster/White is celebrating 60 years in Pioneer Square, which honestly means they must be doing something right. For the anniversary, they’re filling the gallery floor-to-ceiling with work from all of their represented artists.
Also… there’s cake.
Hanakotoba — Conversations in Early Spring
A good slower stop for the night. Japanese photographer Kayako shot tulips in the Skagit Valley, and honestly, it's exactly the vibe you need mid-walk. Go look at some flowers. You deserve it.
Service / Symbiosis — SOIL + Actualize AiR
Actualize AiR is one of the spaces to watch right now. Their opening party last month was packed, with DJ La Mala Noche spinning. Very much art-party energy.
This exhibition brings together 33 artists from two different artist-run spaces. A good place to meet people and strike up conversations.
Patty Tang — Still Human
If you’re interested in documentary photography rooted in real people and real stories, this is worth stopping by.
artist talks + presentations
Emmanuel Aguilera-Santos — Pilchuck Glass School
Glass artist originally from Veracruz, Mexico, who now lives in Seattle. He’ll be talking about his work and a bilingual glass workshop he taught in English and Spanish.
music & vibes
Alberta & Dead Eyes — Underbelly
A good place to catch a little live music during the walk and reset your brain after gallery hopping.
Jon Marie — Locus Wines
Another live music stop if you want to slow things down for a minute. Guitar, vocals, storytelling energy, plus a glass of their crisp sauvignon blanc.
Paul Nunn — Creativity in a Can at Parlour
Portraits of musicians are showing at Parlour, which is honestly one of my favorite wine bars in the city. A solid stop if you want to grab a drink and catch a quick vibe.
unexpected art walk moments
Breakdancing Tournament — Northwest Sweet 16
Yes, a whole ass breakdancing competition is happening during Art Walk. This is the move.
Gestures — John Sarkis
Solo art show that also includes food from Louie’s Deli and… a pinball tournament.
Which feels very Pioneer Square.
Controlled Psychotronics United — Open Studio
Seattle has a lot of people sitting at the intersection of art and tech, and this studio leans fully into that. Expect wearable electronics, sculpture, and experimental projects exploring what it means to be human in a post-AI world.
tattoos
Tattoo Tattoo Seattle — Flash Event
Looking for a spontaneous tattoo during art walk? This is one of the spots. I’ve actually gotten a few tattoos from artists here.
Mama Bird Tattoo — Flash Event
Another chance to get tatted up. Flash tattoos will be available during the walk at the Grand Central Arcade Market.
pit stops
Art Walk Aperitivo — Little Italy
A perfect stop between galleries. Wine, prosecco, snacks, and rotating local art. Grab a drink, figure out the next move, and head out.
parties
Baba Yaga Art Walk After Party
Once the galleries start closing, head to Baba Yaga, which is probably the premier music venue in Pioneer Square right now.
Local DJs, cocktails, and a chance to actually stay out late and beat the sleepy Seattle allegations.