About Us
Urban Art Network is a registered 501-C3 non-profit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for self-representing local artists.
We are collectively engaged in:
- Creating and hosting events for artists to showcase and sell their work
- Working with businesses and other organizations to promote the arts
- Networking and outreach for both established and emerging artists
Since 2000, a devoted team of artist coordinators has presented a street art gallery in the Pearl District on First Thursdays. For one vibrant evening each month from April through October, artists at all stages of their careers, self-represent and sell their work. The Street Gallery is open to the public, rain or shine, every First Thursday (5pm - 9pm) April through October.
Current board members are Porsha Hendrix, Jennifer Kapnek, Dana Gravelle, and Chelsea Smith.
Artist Coordinators
Porsha Hendrix
President
5 years
Fabric Artist
I adore volunteering with Urban Art Network because it provides a unique platform for local artists and makers to showcase their talents and contributes to the vibrancy of our community!
Jennifer Kapnek
Vice President
24 years
Painter
I love the magic that happens at the Street Gallery. I am honored and proud to be a part of Urban Art Network.
Steve Tannenbaum
Street Gallery Coordinator
5 years
Mixed Media
I want to be involved in the awesome community of artists in UAN, helping other artists move forward in showing their work.
Dana Gravelle
Digital Coordinator
20 years
Jeff Curry
Coordinator
2 years
artist
After dedicating considerable time to vending at events and interacting with fellow vendors, I joined the urban art network with the aim of actively participating and contributing to the maker community. My decision to get involved was fueled by a desire to give back and support the creative community that I had become a part of through my vending experiences.
Kimberly Stafford
Coordinator
3 years
Artist
First Thursday is such a fun event to connect with other makers and customers and I want to help support the low-barrier-to-entry opportunities that UAN provides for Portland’s creative community.
Darius Northern
Coordinator
3 years
Artist
First Thursday is my favorite market to be a vendor, the atmosphere, the other vendors, the music, everything! For those reasons I enjoy getting there early as a volunteer (chalk ready), being a part of the setup, and seeing the transition from a bare street into a street full of passionate business owners and casual shoppers.
Rebecca Demeter
Coordinator
2 years
Artist
It is an honor to help support Portland's vibrant community of artists and makers.
Terry Eidsmoe
Coordinator
19 years
Artist
Basically I love the event and the people. It is fun to see vendors excited with a sale or a compliment.
