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Bonfire Gallery

Located within the historic Panama Hotel, Bonfire Gallery is a legendary storefront venue in the International District dedicated to art, culture, and design through socially significant exhibitions.

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Bonfire Gallery
www.thisisbonfire.com, og_image_www.thisisbonfire.com

What is Bonfire Gallery known for?

Bonfire Gallery is a storefront venue and community gathering space located in the historic Panama Hotel, where visitors celebrate art, culture, and design.

Where is Bonfire Gallery located?

It is located at 603 S Main Street, Seattle, WA 98104, within the Panama Hotel.

What are the hours?

The gallery is listed as open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00am to 6:00pm.

Can I visit by appointment?

Yes, the gallery can be visited by appointment by calling 206.790.1073.

Is it possible to see the art without going inside?

Yes, some installation content can be viewed from the storefront vestibule and sidewalk at any time, day or night.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Bonfire Gallery is a legendary storefront venue situated at 603 S Main Street within the historic Panama Hotel. Founded by Bill Gaylord, the gallery serves as the center of BONFIRE Studio, which operates as an art practice, consultancy, and curation business. For nearly a decade, from October 2014 through October 2023, the space functioned as a community gathering hub where visitors celebrated art and design. The gallery is known for hosting exhibitions that tackle complex social and political themes. It has presented works addressing the long-term legacies of the illegal incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, including a solo exhibition titled "REGENERATION" by Seattle artist Michelle Kumata. Additionally, the venue has hosted provocative displays such as "Opposition Art," which featured anti-Trump mixed-media pieces created by L. Kelly Lyles. While the gallery has a history of scheduled programming, it currently emphasizes accessibility through appointments. Visitors can contact the gallery at 206.790.1073 to arrange a visit. Even without an appointment, the gallery remains engaging for passersby, as certain installation content is designed to be viewed from the storefront vestibule and the sidewalk at any time of day or night.

Visitor tips

  • Check the storefront vestibule and sidewalk to view installations day or night without an appointment.
  • Call 206.790.1073 in advance if you wish to arrange a formal gallery visit by appointment.
  • Visit during the day to appreciate the gallery's integration into the historic Panama Hotel architecture.

Nearby context

Bonfire Gallery is a cultural anchor within Seattle's International District, specifically housed in the historic Panama Hotel on S Main Street.

Sources

Evidence and links