World Art Day Shines a Spotlight on Reno Tahoe’s Vibrant Arts Scene

RENO, Nev. (April 14, 2025) — In celebration of World Art Day on April 15, Reno Tahoe invites visitors and locals alike to explore the region’s vibrant and ever-evolving arts scene. From towering sculptures and colorful murals to immersive spring exhibitions and interactive installations, Reno is where creativity comes to life in unexpected ways.

Reno’s streets and parks double as open-air galleries filled with more than 185 public art pieces, including large-scale sculptures straight from Burning Man. Stroll through downtown to spot the iconic “BELIEVE” sculpture in City Plaza, pose with the 50-foot-tall “Space Whale,” or explore the Truckee Riverwalk where murals and installations tell the story of Reno’s creative soul. For a full list of must-see public art, visit the Reno Tahoe public art guide here.

This spring, the Reno Tahoe art scene blossoms with a mix of exhibits, festivals and performances that celebrate local and international talent. Don’t miss the Reno Tahoe International Art Show, returning in September but already building buzz with preview events and pop-ups throughout the city. Or check out The Generator, a maker space in Sparks that’s open to the public and serves as a hub for large-scale installation artists.

For gallery lovers, the Nevada Museum of Art continues to lead with powerful exhibitions in a stunning architectural space, while Art Spot Reno offers street art tours that dive deeper into the history and artists behind Reno’s murals.

Reno’s arts scene goes beyond traditional galleries, offering intimate spaces and immersive experiences that showcase the city’s creative pulse. At The Holland Project Gallery, visitors can explore contemporary exhibitions featuring work by emerging artists under 35. This nonprofit-run venue is known for its edgy, thought-provoking shows that reflect the next generation of artistic voices.

Just a short walk away, the Sierra Arts Gallery anchors the historic Riverside building with rotating exhibitions by regional artists. The space also hosts workshops, classes and live music, making it a hub for community connection and cultural expression.

For an open-air experience, the MidTown Mural Walk invites art lovers on a self-guided tour through Reno’s MidTown District. Murals line alleyways and building walls, turning the neighborhood into a colorful canvas that celebrates diversity, storytelling and urban creativity.

Many of Reno’s signature sculptures trace their origin to Burning Man. Artworks like “Ichthyosaur Puppet” and “Pentamonium” have found permanent homes throughout the city. This connection infuses Reno’s art scene with a sense of play, innovation and community spirit that mirrors the ethos of the playa.

Art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to the Plein Air Convention & Expo, which is happening May 19–23 at the Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks. This one-of-a-kind event brings together 75 artists from around the world to paint Reno Tahoe’s stunning landscapes in real time. With live demonstrations, expert workshops and group painting excursions to iconic local vistas, it’s an immersive celebration of creativity under the open sky.

Whether you’re snapping selfies with a 40-foot robot, browsing local galleries or watching artists at work in community studios, Reno offers countless ways to connect with creativity. For a full guide to arts and culture in Reno Tahoe, visit visitrenotahoe.com.