Exhibition ties in ‘awareness, education, love, community’
The "Pride Unbound" exhibition has been open a week and three pieces have already sold from CM Studio and Gallery in Kellogg. Featured artwork is from local queer artists and allies. The youngest artist included in the gallery show was a 10-year-old named Abram whose artwork sold on opening night.
Photo courtesy of Cassie Hoialmen
A piece of artwork by Megan Tracy titled "Being Mom" captured a love letter from a mother to her daughter about coming out.
An untitled work by Alyssa Sandahl was on display at the CM Studio and Gallery in Kellogg as part of the "Pride Unbound" exhibition.
KELLOGG — The 10 artists showcased in the “Pride Unbound” exhibition at CB Studio and Gallery come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Some are professional, some community members and one is a 10-year-old.
All have one thing in common: they want to tell stories of love, pride and allyship with the queer community. Gallery owner Cassie Hoialmen said that, when she announced the theme, there were a few internet trolls that reared their heads. Nonetheless, she was convinced the power of art would mollify any the exhibitions detractors.
“There was a letter from a mom to her daughter, and it’s kind of a love letter that sold. I also had my first 10-year-old sell his piece on opening night. His name is Abram,” Hoialmen said.
The theme stems from “awareness, education, love, community,” something that Hoialmen sees as pillars of acceptance and support. Resources from Silver Valley Pride, North Idaho Pride Alliance and PFLAG are also an inclusive piece of the exhibition.
“The point of the exhibition is to help educate the Valley, offer free resources and to represent local artists in our community that are a part of the LGBTQ+ community,” Hoialmen said.
Silver Valley Pride organizers said that they feel the exhibition has been embraced by the community and they are excited to see this support translate into future events around Shoshone County.
“The LGBTQIA+ community has always been a part of Shoshone County's history, we are just stepping out of the shadows and celebrating all the ways this wonderful area is diverse,” Silver Valley Pride organizers said.
If you go
What: “Pride Unbound” runs through Sept. 23.
Gallery hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday
Where: 115 McKinley Ave., Kellogg
