In downtown Meridian, a gallery stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Bill Garibyan's vision to showcase his oil paintings turned into a cultural beacon for the Treasure Valley community. The Idaho Art Gallery, since its opening in January 2022, has become a cherished space for local and regional artists to exhibit their masterpieces.
Bill's love for art began young, nurtured by his accomplished artist father. However, after immigrating to the United States from Armenia, Bill focused on providing for his family, putting his artistic dreams on hold.
"I took any job I could get – I worked at a window factory… I learned how to build houses, anything I could do for my family," Bill recalled.
Despite the challenges, Bill's passion for art remained a spark. When life settled down, he rekindled his love for painting, drawing inspiration from Idaho's diverse landscapes.
"Here we have mountains, rivers, lakes, fields, canyons... but most of all, I love the skies. Idaho has the most beautiful skies," he remarked.
In 2019, Bill and his family moved to the Treasure Valley, which led to the creation of the Idaho Art Gallery. Managed by the Garibyan family, the gallery is open every Wednesday through Saturday, 11 am to 6 pm.
Nelli, the gallery director, is proud of her father's artistic journey. "We have watched my dad embrace his love of art, and now to see how his technique has developed from those early days is very rewarding for our entire family."
The Idaho Art Gallery comes alive with a diverse array of artwork. From oils on canvas depicting Idaho's landscapes to sculptures crafted from stone and contemporary pieces, the gallery has become a coveted destination for artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Throughout the year, the gallery hosts a variety of events that bring the community together in celebration of art. Bill can often be found at the gallery, welcoming visitors and sharing stories about his captivating artwork.
"We want to be a place everyone can experience," Bill expressed passionately. "Coming to the gallery is free for our visitors, and we want to continue to be a valuable community partner not only in Meridian but for the greater Treasure Valley."
The Idaho Art Gallery, nestled at 211 E Pine Ave. Suite 108 in Meridian, offers a remarkable journey through the expressions of local talent. A visit to this cultural gem is an invitation to immerse oneself in the soulful beauty of art and to witness firsthand the transformative power of following one's dreams.
To learn more about the Idaho Art Gallery and its events or to become a guest artist in 2024, visit LandscapePaintings.org. Whether an art enthusiast or seeking a moment of inspiration, the Idaho Art Gallery welcomes all with open arms, inviting everyone to celebrate the vibrant spirit of creativity flourishing in the Treasure Valley.
