PORTLAND, Ore. – In a vibrant initiative aimed at reviving the Old Town neighborhood, Portland has launched the No Vacancy Window Gallery, transforming nearly 20 vacant storefronts into a 24-hour open-air art exhibit.
This unique project, which began this week, showcases artistic installations within boarded-up business windows, allowing for public access and engagement with the arts.
Running from now until December 1, the free exhibition stretches from the White Stag Block at 70 NW Couch Street, proceeds under the iconic Chinatown gates, and continues along Northwest Fourth Avenue and Burnside Street.
The No Vacancy pilot project was conceived to breathe new life into a section of the city that continues to grapple with vacant spaces and a less than favorable reputation.
Organizers of the initiative aim to both highlight the cultural and architectural richness of Old Town and provide a platform for local artists to display their talents.
A diverse array of artworks is featured, including photography, textiles, sculptures, paintings, and mixed-media installations, each creatively displayed in previously uninviting storefront windows.
For many of these locations, this marks the first time in years that foot traffic has presented a reason for pedestrians to stop and engage with the art.
Spearheaded by Field States, a Portland-based real estate strategy firm, the project also has support from Prosper Portland and the Old Town Community Association.
These collaborative efforts are aimed not only at beautifying the area but also with the hope of attracting potential businesses and tenants.
Artists’ names and landlords’ contact information are displayed on placards next to the installations, creating a direct connection between art enthusiasts and opportunities to lease space in Old Town.
Matthew Claudel, founder and CEO of Field States, noted that inspiration for the No Vacancy project was drawn from similar initiatives that have successfully revitalized vacant retail spaces in other West Coast cities, such as Seattle Restored and Vacant to Vibrant in San Francisco.
Claudel expressed the need for Portland to reclaim its downtown area, stating that the stigma surrounding Old Town has led to a decline in foot traffic despite its cultural and architectural richness.
One particularly striking installation can be viewed through the hexagonal windows of the historic Tuck Lung Building located at 140 NW Fourth Avenue.
Artist Lauren Lesueur created a vivid red-and-blue tablescape that pays homage to the Wong family, who previously operated a grocery store and restaurant in that space for decades.
Lesueur, who also took on the role of curator for the exhibit, emphasized that her piece reflects Old Town’s layered history and her desire to honor the contributions of the Wong family.
The greater goal of the No Vacancy project extends beyond mere artistic expression; it seeks to alter the way Portlanders perceive the Old Town area.
By illuminating once-dark storefronts with creativity and color, the exhibition shines a light on the neighborhood’s potential for transformation and revitalization.
Visitors are encouraged to stop, reflect, and envision themselves as part of Old Town’s evolving narrative, whether as artists, business owners, or simply members of the community enjoying a stroll downtown.
The No Vacancy Window Gallery is set to remain on display until December 1, 2025, with organizers already considering ways to continue or expand the initiative beyond its initial pilot phase.
Claudel articulated a vision of community reclamation through the project, stating, “This is about showing what’s possible when you give people a reason to come back.”
image source from：canbyfirst
