Seattle is known for its mix of the classic and eclectic, streamlined and whimsical. The arts scene in the Emerald City represents this clearly, in classical concert halls to a café dedicated solely poorly made art.

Music and Seattle have been intrinsically linked since the rise of grunge music in the 90s with bands such as Nirvana and Soundgarden, and that spirit of music above the noise has persisted. The Vera Project, located in Seattle Center next to the KEXP offices, represents this spirit. The volunteer-run shows at the Vera are all-ages and all-inclusive as both local and national bands play on their stage. Furthermore, the space works to preserve and provide opportunities for the arts to flourish, through hosting a gallery as well as classes on screen printing, dj-ing, and on sound management. Furthermore, Seattle is host to numerous smaller venues in the area beyond the Key Arena, such as Neumos, Showbox, El Corazon, the Crocodile, and plenty others for anyone can get their concert fix.

In regard to paintings, photographs and sculptures—Seattle, according to The Stranger, is filled to the brim with visual arts. With locations such as the Chihuly Glass Museum, Seattle Art Museum, the Burke and plenty of smaller institutions, galleries, and museums there are plenty opportunities view interesting works, often by local artists. Interested in the connection between technology and the arts? The Living Computer Museum delves into the growth of digital technology and the influence it has had on society. If your interest lies in the kitschy side of life, the Official Bad Art Museum of America (otherwise known as OBAMA) within Café Racer holds a collection of some of the tackiest art known to man. If looking to indulge oneself in the art of your ancestors, there are plenty of heritage museums within Seattle, including the Nordic Museum, Northwest African American Museum, Seattle Asian Art Museum, and the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center.

When it comes to performance, whether it is on stage or on the screen, Seattle is home to numerous centers that host both local and global works. In film, the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) owns three theaters in the area, all of which dedicated to hosting new releases as well as the occasional classic. SIFF is a cornerstone in the film community, hosting multiple film festivals throughout the year, their primary event occurring in May and June. The Grand Illusion Cinema is dedicated to showing underground classics and cult films, meant to enthuse, shock, and, at times, confuse. The Three Dollar Bill Cinema works to showcase the work of local LGBTQ+ filmmakers (check out their upcoming Seattle Transgender Film Festival), while the Central Cinema portrays classic reruns while serving food alongside the film. In the local theater and drama world, there are theaters abound for all forms of productions. For local productions, there is the Annex Theater, Theater Schmeater, and the Seattle Repertory Theater, which strive to represent the voices of all who live within the Pacific Northwest. Along the lines of representation, the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in the Northwest African American Museum highlights the creative voices of the African American community within Seattle. In comedy and improv, there are multiple theaters dedicated to watch actors ad lib onstage—including Unexpected Productions Improv, Jet City Improv, and Wing It Productions.

Let the creativity fly, whatever way you like.

Have an interest in the arts and want to learn of events happening now? Check out sites such as TeenTix or The Stranger’s Things to Do Calendar.