St. Louis is a city where creativity thrives, offering an extraordinary art scene that captivates locals and visitors alike. From bustling art fairs to world-class museums to a dynamic network of galleries, there’s always something inspiring to discover.
One of the region’s annual highlights is the renowned St. Louis Art Fair, held every September. Widely regarded as one of the top art fairs in the country, it draws artists from around the world, eager to showcase their creations to art enthusiasts and collectors. Whether you’re seeking original paintings, intricate ceramics, striking sculptures, blown art glass or contemporary prints, the fair offers a treasure trove of creativity that transforms our city into a vibrant hub of artistic energy.
But you don’t have to wait for September to enjoy the arts. February is an especially exciting time for art lovers in St. Louis, with several must-see exhibits and events:
1 “Shinichi Sawada: Agents of Clay” (Contemporary Art Museum, until Feb. 9): Stunning ceramic figures blending natural textures with fantastical designs
2 “Narrative Wisdom and African Arts” (Saint Louis Art Museum, until Feb. 16): Explore centuries-old and contemporary African storytelling traditions.
3 “Gasp” (Art Saint Louis, until Feb. 12): A juried group show featuring works by 60 regional artists
4 “Still Life of Men” by Brenda Gilliam (St. Louis Artists’ Guild, until Feb. 15): A poignant exploration of humanity through the male figure
5 “Art in Bloom 2025” (Saint Louis Art Museum, Feb. 28-March 2): A beloved event where floral designers create interpretations of SLAM masterpieces
St. Louis is home to some of the nation’s most celebrated museums, which enrich our cultural landscape. The Saint Louis Art Museum, nestled in Forest Park, is a crown jewel of the city, offering more than 36,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history. Admission is free, making world-class art accessible to everyone.
Nearby, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, is an artistic and architectural marvel. Alongside it, the Contemporary Art Museum and The Sheldon Art Galleries add to the vibrant Grand Center Arts District.
While many galleries are located in the Central West End and Grand Center, St. Louis’ art scene extends far beyond these hubs.The Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, located on the Washington University campus, showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works alongside rotating exhibitions. Cherokee Street is a vibrant enclave of galleries, studios and antique shops, while art spaces and pop-ups can be found in neighborhoods across the metro area.
St. Louis’ art scene is a testament to its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. With world-class institutions, dynamic galleries and a supportive community of artists, there’s no shortage of inspiration. This February, immerse yourself in the creativity of St. Louis—there’s no better time to explore.
Pictured at top: Artwork by Jeff Williams, Springfield, IL
Faith Berger is a St. Louis-based artist, working in acrylic, mixed medium collage. Visit her website at faithberger.com, find her on Instagram @faithberger.art, or reach her via email at faith@faithberger.com.
