Best Fine Art in Seattle

Charles and Emma Frye arrived in Seattle in 1888. Throughout a 25-year period, they amassed an unrivaled collection (eventually more than 230 pieces) of fine art painted by both American and European artists, mostly from the 19th and 20th Centuries. A trust in Charles Frye's will made provisions for a free public art museum, and today anyone can view the collection at no charge. Located on First Hill, the Frye Art Museum also includes the Gallery Cafe. Free parking is also available across from the main entrance.

Sitting on Capitol Hill with Volunteer Park's large grassy knoll at its entrance and a neighborhood known for its unique culture surrounding it, the Asian Art Museum is not to be missed. Have lunch in the park overlooking downtown Seattle, and then wander into the museum to be immediately engulfed in some of the world's most precious Asian art. Browse through over 23,000 objects that include African, Asian, European, Oceanic, Aboriginal, among other international art. From one of the top five US Japanese & Korean Art collections to ancient Greek and Roman artifacts, visitors are able to absorb prominent multi-cultural art. Call ahead for visiting hours.

Devout art-lovers participating in the First Thursday Art Walk must stop by this gallery to witness some of the most remarkable contemporary artworks. The gallery is committed to bringing forth the the local artist community while also being involved with nationally renowned artists. The focus is mainly on three faculties- painting and sculpture, contemporary print and drawing, and antique prints. The gallery adheres to high ethical standards when it comes to original print dealings. For information about current and upcoming exhibitions check out the website.

The Seattle Art Museum is internationally recognized for its excellent collection of Asian, African and Native American art and for its fine collection of modern art produced by Pacific Northwest artists. The permanent collection includes 21,000 pieces and while it doesn't have huge collections of European art, it does have plentiful local art and wonderful visiting exhibits. The museum is centrally located downtown near the waterfront and Pike Place Market.

This chic gallery in the Pioneer Square was established in 1983 and is renowned for its contemporary artistic displays of national and local artists such as Susan Skilling, Jeffrey Simmons, Kerry James Marshall and Louise Bourgeois. A highly sought after venue by top artists as well as new ones, their thematic group shows are one of the best and well presented shows. Do check out the sculpture deck which is on the second level displayed outdoor. This is a must visit gallery if you can only fit in one gallery visit in your schedule.

Since its conception in 1968 by Richard White, this acclaimed contemporary art gallery has changed hands as well as locations quite a few times. Currently located in the historic Pioneer Square and under the direction of Phen Huang from the Huang family of the Canadian Bau Xi Gallery, Foster/White is nestled in a century old building. The gallery has large ceilings, authentic wood beams and a huge space for exhibition. Foster/White Gallery is a member of the Seattle Art Dealers Association (SADA). Featuring over 40 local artists such as Will Robinson, Dale Chihuly, Eva Isaksen, Bobbie Burgers, Benjamin Moore, and Alden Mason who are known for their glass, sculpture and painting works. The gallery's austere white walls makes sure that your eyes will be drawn to the artworks and nowhere else.

Another feather in the hat for the artsy neighborhood of Pioneer Square, just South of downtown, this gallery explores the culminating local art culture. Showcasing contemporary works in form of paintings, drawings, sculptures, light based works, wax art, chocolate art, interactive media and sound installations, this gallery has already created a name for itself locally and nationally. And the fact that this non-profit organization is owned and operated by a group of local artists (members) shows how progressive the burgeoning art is today.