The Ely ArtWalk is an annual art show held since 1999 during the Ely Winter Festival that transforms Ely Minnesota's downtown into an arts district, featuring the work of more than 100 visual artists. The event is free to the public and in the last few years has become an anticipated winter event drawing visitors from all over northern Minnesota. This event showcases local artists and those who ha
ve a lasting connection to the Ely community, so it retains a local character. It is not a juried show and amateurs and professionals exhibit side by side. It is not a craft show, but a local craft show sometimes takes place during the same time period and all events are coordinated with the Ely Winter Festival. Through the goodwill of area merchants and the work of a dedicated staff of volunteers, the Ely ArtWalk exhibits artwork created by established and emerging artists in the store windows of downtown Ely. Art lovers can view over 500 pieces of original work in all mediums, with much of the art for sale. Participating artists are from the Ely area and represent an amazing depth of regional artistic talent. The Ely ArtWalk is dedicated to the creation, promotion, and appreciation of the arts, and is made possible in part by a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council through an appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature and the McKnight Foundation, the Ely Chamber of Commerce and Northern Lakes Arts Association. If you are an Ely area artist who would like to participate, an art lover who would like to volunteer or contribute, or a merchant with available display space, please visit our website at elyartwalk.org for more information.
