The Matthews Opera House provides artists with meaningful opportunities to exhibit their work in a historic and welcoming space. From annual open calls to special curated shows, artists of all ages and experience levels can display their creations, engage with the community, and see their work celebrated alongside other local talent. Exhibiting with the Matthews connects artists to a legacy of creativity while sharing their vision with audiences who value and support the arts.
Spearfish ArtWalk
June 20th – 28th
Much like Theater on the Run, the Matthews partners with local businesses to create unique art experiences outside traditional gallery spaces. The Spearfish ArtWalk is a community-wide celebration of creativity taking place on June 20th in downtown Spearfish, with artwork remaining on display in partner locations through June 28. Local businesses transform into pop-up galleries, showcasing work by regional artists alongside pieces created by youth from the Canyon Hills Center Visiting Artist Program, a partnership with Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota supported by an Arts Midwest GIG Grant. Opening weekend receptions invite the community to meet artists, explore downtown, and experience art in welcoming public spaces.
- Applications Open: May 11 – 29
- Notify Artists: May 30
- Intake: June 3-13
- Install: June 17-19
- Reception: June 20th – Time TBD
- Deinstall: June 29
- Return Work: June 30 – July 3
Summer Art Gala
August 1st – 9th
The Matthews is reimagining our traditional Summer Art Exhibit as a unique, immersive experience in the theater. Join us for an elegant black-tie evening featuring live music, curated displays of professional artwork, and a high-end reception. The Gala honors participating artists and brings the community together in a sophisticated celebration of creativity. Following the event, the artwork will remain on display for public viewing, allowing everyone to explore and enjoy the exhibition in the days afterward.
- Gala Night: August 1st 6-9pm
More details will be posted soon!
Community Art Show
November 14th – 22nd
At the heart of this celebration is the belief that creativity exists in every home, from doodles taped to the fridge to masterpieces on gallery walls. We want to bring it all together, inviting artists of all ages, styles, and experience levels to submit work to this annual showcase. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just discovering your creative spark, this is your chance to share your voice and join a joyful, eclectic display of local talent. Through the Community Art Show, we highlight not only the beauty and skill of our makers but also the deep wells of creativity and support that thrive throughout our community.
- Intake: October 29-3
- Install: October 6-8
- Opening Reception: October 9th, 5-7
- Return Work: October 20-24
More details will be posted soon!
Beyond the Matthews
Art Nest Gallery
The Art Nest Gallery is a cozy little gallery with a variety of art, from paintings to pours, pencils to pastels, potteries to sculptures, collages to cards, stitcheries to clothe animals, books and prints.
Dahl Art Center
The Rapid City Arts Council has managed the Dahl Arts Center since 1974. The RCAC’s mission is to champion inclusive, innovative, and inspiring arts opportunities to enrich the communities we serve.
Arts South Dakota
Arts South Dakota provides vital support to our state’s arts sector through communication initiatives, programming, and unified advocacy.
