'Between Borders' at Art Spirit through June

The "Between Borders: Folklife through the Coeur d'Alenes" exhibit is on display at the Art Spirit Gallery through June 30.

This exhibit, a collaboration with the Idaho Commission on the Arts, explores the vibrant traditions of folk artistry along Idaho’s Interstate 90 corridor between the Montana and Washington state lines. The exhibit features the work of artisans whose crafts — ranging from blacksmithing and bladesmithing to beading, quilting, weaving and more — reflect the rich and adaptable cultural heritage of residents in Kootenai, Shoshone and parts of Benewah counties. Each piece on display embodies a blend of historical technique and personal expression representative of the cultural community from which they derive, showcasing the unique skill and creativity of these local artists.

From the Silver Valley through the Coeur d’Alene Mountains and river area, both urban and rural, this folk artistry is a cornerstone of Idaho’s cultural history, representing a tapestry of influences and traditions. The intricate patterns of quilt makers and the craftsmanship of fly tiers that correlate to the Panhandle’s waterways each tell a story of community, identity and continuity. This exhibit invites visitors to appreciate the artistry and dedication behind each craft, highlighting how these traditions are preserved and reimagined by contemporary practitioners.

By engaging with these works, viewers not only honor the past but also support the ongoing vitality of folk arts in the region. In celebrating the diversity of crafts, "Between Borders" reveals the deep connections between art and everyday life. These works are not just decorative; they serve functional purposes and carry cultural significance, enriching the lives of those who create and use them. This exhibition offers a profound look at the enduring impact of folk art on the Panhandle region, encouraging visitors to reflect on their own heritage and the ways in which the traditional arts continue to shape the world.

The Art Spirit Gallery is at 415 Sherman Ave., Coeur d'Alene.

    "Syringa," a woven ponderosa pine needle basket by Barbara Snarr, is on display at the Art Spirit in downtown Coeur d'Alene.