PDX Contemporary Art

PDX Contemporary Art, established in 1996, has grown from its intimate beginnings into one of Portland’s most respected venues for contemporary artistic expression. Originally designed by Brad Cloepfil of Allied Works, the gallery later expanded in 2006 into a larger, equally refined space, affirming its dedication to providing artists with a platform that evolves alongside their practice. More recently, the addition of a revitalized quonset hut as part of a Skylab project underscores the gallery’s commitment to creativity and its integration into Portland’s thriving artistic community.

Photography plays a particularly significant role in the gallery’s programming. By situating photography alongside painting, sculpture, and conceptual work, PDX Contemporary Art emphasizes the medium’s importance within the larger conversation of contemporary art. The gallery has become known for its discerning presentation of photographers who explore both the technical rigor and the poetic possibilities of the image. Through monthly exhibitions, photography is given the space to address themes of identity, memory, landscape, and social commentary, reflecting how the medium continues to evolve in a digital age while remaining rooted in its physical and historical traditions.

PDX Contemporary Art represents both local and international artists, creating a dialogue between regional perspectives and global practices. Photographic works often stand out for their ability to bridge these contexts, offering narratives that resonate universally while reflecting the specificity of place and time. This inclusive approach has helped foster the careers of photographers who are unafraid to challenge conventions and expand the language of the medium.

In remaining artist-centered, the gallery continues to nurture photographers alongside painters, sculptors, and interdisciplinary practitioners, ensuring their work reaches new audiences. By maintaining photography as a central element in its exhibitions, PDX Contemporary Art affirms the enduring and transformative power of the photographic image in contemporary culture.