The Columbia Gorge Museum in Stevenson hosted a preview exhibition on April 17, 2026, to launch the 20th-anniversary edition of the Gorge Artists Open Studios Tour. The event featured works from approximately 30 of the 50 participating local artists, allowing guests to meet creators and view a diverse array of regionally resonant art before the public studio tour begins in May.
This event marks the first time the tour has held a dedicated preview exhibition, highlighting the museum's commitment to supporting and validating the local arts economy. By providing a platform for direct interaction between artists and the community, the institution aims to foster connections, educate the public about local culture, and elevate the profile of artists within the Columbia River Gorge region.