The Forest Room Gallery
Check out our free community gallery space in the Library's Forest Room, open during regular library hours.
The Forest Room Gallery features three spotlit walls to showcase framed and two-dimensional pieces, while our 6' x 6' glass display case offers a more intimate display venue for smaller works, such as artisan-crafted materials, curio collections, and smaller three-dimensional works.
We strive to showcase the artwork of local artists and artists who live and create in Curry and Del Norte Counties. We're currently looking for artists able to showcase their work between July and December 2025.
Interested in being an upcoming featured artist in the Forest Room Gallery? Fill out the form below and tell us about your work!
Our Exhibits
Our featured gallery exhibits change on a monthly basis. Exhibits are typically assembled by the 2nd of the month, and are disassembled between the 25th and the final day of the month.
June's Featured Artist: Garrett Smith
The Colors of Life
Medium: Photography
About the Artist: Garrett Smith is a dedicated photographer whose passion for the craft ignited during his time at Southern Oregon College in Ashland, Oregon. He honed his skills in shooting and darkroom techniques while contributing to the college yearbook. His educational journey took a pivotal turn when the legendary Ansel Adams visited Ashland and advised Garrett to study under Bernie Freemesser at the University of Oregon. This advice set Garrett on a path of artistic exploration and growth.
A few years later, while pursuing his graduate studies, Garrett hosted a series of artist presentations at the university, featuring esteemed photographers such as W. Eugene Smith, Haskell Wexler, and Vilmos Zsigmond. Inspired by these photographic luminaries, Garrett ventured to Hollywood, where he collaborated with motion picture artists for several decades, refining his craft in the dynamic world of cinema.
Recently, Garrett has been captivated by the natural beauty of the southern Oregon coast, particularly in Brookings, where he explores the flora, fauna, and breathtaking landscapes. His work extends to capturing intimate moments of both animal and human subjects, reflecting his profound connection to the subject matter he photographs.
Second Saturday Art Walks
June 14, 3:00 – 5:00pm Join June’s featured gallery artist Garrett Smith for an Art Walk Open House! The library will serve light refreshments between 3:00 and 4:30pm, with music by local pianist Craig Evans. Garrett will be in attendance all afternoon to greet visitors, answer questions, and talk about his exhibit in a relaxed environment in the Forest Room.
Up Next in the Forest Room Gallery
July’s Gallery Artist: John Scott
This July, the Forest Gallery walls will feature a series of captivating black light paintings by Curry County painter John Scott!
July’s Display Case Artist: Christine Zellmer
Enjoy a whimsical selection of hand-crocheted characters and creatures by local artisan Christine Zellmer!