Blue Sky, Oregon Center for the Photographic Arts

Founded as the Oregon Center for the Photographic Arts by a group of five young photographers in 1975, Blue Sky became an established venue for local photography. Over the course of four decades, the organization expanded its offerings to include national and international artists, many of whom exhibited at Blue Sky early in their careers.

Blue Sky’s special endeavor continues to be the exhibition of emerging and established artists that exemplify the finest in photographic vision and innovation. As such, Blue Sky has earned the accolade as having “the best record of discovering new photographers of any artists’ space in the country.”

Today, from a 3,700-square-foot facility in Portland’s historic Pearl District Blue Sky presents between 20 and 30 exhibitions annually, maintains a public research library, showcases regional photographers in an annual juried archive of original works in its Pacific Northwest Photography Viewing Drawers, and offers regular artist talks and programs.