Boise’s Art Scene: Galleries, Murals and More

Boise has a rapidly growing art scene – with new outdoor galleries, murals and sculptures being funded and created by local artists every year. It seems that you don’t have to go far to find some sort of canvas, whether that is the polished walls of a gallery, alleys bursting with color or sculptures in public spaces. 

Let’s wander through five standout art destinations that capture the spirit and creativity of the city.

Boise Art Museum (BAM)

Located in Julia Davis Park, BAM is the only AAM-accredited collecting museum in Idaho. The collection includes contemporary realism, modern ceramics, and the largest public archive of works by outsider artist James Castle. Visitors to the museum can expect thoughtfully curated exhibitions and educational programming that makes art accessible and engaging. 

BAM also participates in First Thursday, with “pay what you can” admission prices on the first Thursday of every month. 

Freak Alley Gallery

You couldn’t talk about art in Boise without talking about Freak Alley. Boise’s most iconic splash of color, Freak Alley is the Northwest’s largest open-air, multi-artist mural gallery.

Freak Alley got its start in 2002 with one simple doorway sketch and has since exploded into an ever-evolving canvas that stretches through an entire alley and adjacent parking lot. 

The outdoor gallery is updated every summer, so you get to see something new every time you stop by.

Art Source Gallery

An artist-owned cooperative showcasing a vibrant blend of painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry and glass by over 40 local and regional creators. Art Source Gallery offers rotating exhibitions, receptions, and events that make it a lively hub for community connection and discovery. 

The galley has been open since 1993 and is located in the Linen District in downtown Boise. You can find quality but affordable paintings, sculptures, jewelry, glass art and more.

Capitol Contemporary Gallery

Known for cutting-edge contemporary work, this gallery brings together established and emerging artists in mediums ranging from ceramics to mixed media. It’s a thoughtful and modern space that encourages dialogue between art and audience through rotating shows and artist talks 

Capitol Contemporary Gallery is an ideal space for local artists and collectors to find and sell unique and high quality artwork in the City of Trees.

Public Sculptures & Murals Around Boise

Beyond the gallery walls, Boise’s vibrant public art scene brings creativity into everyday spaces:

Boise Visual Chronicle (BVC): An interior collection of over 200 city-owned works—paintings, prints, sculptures—that highlight Boisean life and culture 

Traffic Box Art Program: Ordinary traffic boxes transformed into miniature galleries. Last year, each painted design explored themes like water renewal and equity, rewarding 12 selected artists 

Public Murals Across the City: From murals in the Linen District to larger-than-life pieces in historic locations like the Old Boise Bus Station, Jefferson Place, and N Capitol Blvd, these works range from whimsical to meaningful. 

If you ever have any questions about the ever-changing marketplace or know someone looking to buy or sell, please do not hesitate to reach out!