Elemental: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Spirit
From The Dalles Art Center:
By Ellen Woods Potter
The Dalles, Ore., Jan. 15, 2026 — The Dalles Art Center invites the community to experience Elemental: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Spirit, a dynamic open exhibition exploring the fundamental forces that shape our world and inner lives. The exhibit opens with a free public Opening Party on Friday, January 19, from 5–7 p.m., featuring artwork by regional artists working across a wide range of media.
Elemental brings together interpretations of the natural elements and the unseen spirit that connects them, offering visitors a rich and varied visual experience. From grounded reflections on land and water to expressive responses to movement, transformation, and energy, the exhibit highlights both personal and universal relationships with the elements.
An Artist Talk will take place on February 5, from 6–7:30 p.m., featuring several participating artists who will discuss their work, creative processes, and how the elemental theme informed their practice.
In addition to the exhibition, Elemental is accompanied by an expansive lineup of community programming designed to deepen engagement with the themes of the show.
Program Highlights:
● Elemental Create Night: Join instructor Denae Manion on Friday, January 30, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Dalles Art Center (220 East 4th Street, downtown) for a fun night of painting, inspired by the movement of water and air.
● Looking Closely at Art: Join instructor Kerry Cobb on Wednesdays in February and March, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 p.m., and learn how to interpret the basics of art design, composition, and style.
● Songwriting: Finding Your Voice: Join instructor and award-winning songwriter Barry Crannell in this 6-week program. Unlock your creative potential and bring your stories to life through music!
● Poetry Open Mic: Join us Friday, February 13, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 p.m. for a poetry open mic. This free event is open to poets of all skill levels and listeners of all ages. Hosted by local poet Laurel Kirby, this evening is sure to inspire!
● Sip and Glaze: Hosted by local ceramicist and TDAC instructor Amber Anderson, this fun evening is a great opportunity to release some creative energy. Participants will select a pre-bisqued vase to glaze, while enjoying a drink with other members of the community. Saturday, February 21, 6:00 PM to 8:00 p.m
● Yoga in the Gallery: Combine visual art and gentle movement with this program hosted at TDAC’s gallery by Studio Fit instructor Emma Wiley. Join us on February 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
● Winter Landscape Plein Air Painting: Join us for plein air painting from the comfort of the indoors! Jinnet Powel will instruct this acrylic painting class in front of the large windows at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center on February 28, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 p.m.
“These programs are an invitation to not only view the work on the walls, but to actively explore creativity through conversation, writing, movement, and making,” said Executive Director Ellen Potter. “Elemental is about connection: to nature, to art, and to one another.”
Elemental: Earth, Air, Water, Fire, Spirit will be on view at The Dalles Art Center through the winter season. Gallery admission and many related events are free and open to the public.
For exhibit details, event dates, and program registration, visit thedallesartcenter.org or follow The Dalles Art Center on social media.
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The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) connects people in the greater Mid-Columbia Gorge region through engaging and exploring art because a creative and connected community thrives together. TDAC, housed in a historic 1910 Carnegie Library offers art education and public programs for children, adults and seniors. Local artists and artisans exhibit and sell their work in the gallery.
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