Cover photo courtesy of Forest to Frame
On May 16, the John A Finch Arboretum will become both the subject and the studio as Forest to Frame—Spokane’s largest plein air art festival—returns in a new setting, inviting the community to experience creativity in motion.
Forest to Frame was born out of Brush on the Bluff, the beloved plein air event held on the High Drive Bluff for the past five years. What began as a small gathering of artists and a few hundred visitors steadily grew into something much bigger—so much so that by 2025, it had outgrown its original home.
This year, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., more than 50 professional artists will scatter throughout Finch arboretum, setting up easels, chainsaws, and clay among the gardens, creek, and quiet corners of the park. Each begins with the same source of inspiration—light, color, and nature—but what emerges is entirely their own. Visitors are encouraged to wander, watch, ask questions, and witness blank canvasses transforming into works of art in real time.
The day is designed to be as welcoming as it is inspiring. Live music from Rosie CQ and Moss & Stone will drift through the trees while families gather at the kids craft area hosted by Greenplay Northwest. An art market offers the chance to take home a piece of the experience and local nonprofits will host hands-on activities that connect art with environmental awareness. With food from Feast World Kitchen and free coffee from Thomas Hammer, it’s easy to settle in and stay awhile.
The experience doesn’t end when the paint dries. After the event, the artwork will be displayed at the Spokane Art School during an opening reception on May 23rd from 4-8pm and the following Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm, before being auctioned online on May 29th. Proceeds are shared between the artists and the Spokane Art School’s mission to support the local art community and provide accessible, high-quality arts education for all.
What began as a small gathering has grown into a vibrant celebration of creativity and connection. In its new home at Finch Arboretum, Forest to Frame continues to evolve—but remains rooted in nature, creativity, and community.
Learn more at SpokaneArtSchool.net/ForestToFrame.
