Gallery 408

Gallery 408, located at 408 NE 4th Avenue, will display the works of the three owners and offer exhibit space for other juried artists. Co-owner Michelle Purvis is excited to begin this new chapter in Camas, creating a platform for more local artists. “We have a vision to create a space that embraces the local community, art enthusiasts and collectors alike, making fine art exciting and accessible to everyone.”

Acknowledging the rich cultural history of the area and the lack of representation of native art in galleries throughout the region, Gallery 408 will have a dedicated space for native artists to exhibit and sell their work. Shoshone-Bannock poet, playwright, and traditional storyteller Ed Edmo, consultant to the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian, will assist the gallery to ensure that native cultures are both honored and respected in the space. Ed will also present a poetry reading at the gallery’s upcoming dedication event showcasing the works of featured native artists.

Gallery 408 plans to partner with Artstra’s “Creative Relief Clark County” to host fundraising events at the gallery to directly serve those in the community with limited access to the arts. Joanne Cavallaro understands how critical these collaborations are. She recently joined forces with Creative Relief for “Uplift!” which presented 125 children from Boys and Girls Clubs and Friends of the Children with free art supplies. The children also worked with local artists and art therapists to create an art installation that was displayed at City Hall during the inaugural Vancouver Art and Music Festival. Gallery 408 will also provide exhibition and mentorship opportunities for the award recipient of Artstra’s Christine Rice Memorial Scholarship, given to emerging artists age 20 – 30 through their Open Studios program.

About Joanne Cavallaro
Joanne, an abstract artist, has been rooted in Vancouver since 2019. Her works grace galleries across the greater Portland area and Clark County. A member of the Society of Washington Artists in Vancouver, Joanne recently garnered accolades at the Vancouver Art and Music Festival, clinching first place for one piece and earning honorable mention for another.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Joanne is dedicated to philanthropy in the arts, regularly contributing her creations to various fundraising events. Notably, she has supported the Cascade Aids Project for two consecutive years, participating in their juried fundraising exhibit. Joanne finds inspiration in the vibrant arts community of this region and eagerly looks forward to furthering arts outreach programs with Gallery 408.

About Michelle Purvis
Michelle’s upbringing in the Northwest, and the support of her creative family who nurtured her aspirations in the arts, profoundly influenced her perspective on life and shaped her identity. At 22 years old, she relocated to Portland to launch her art business. She started the Portland Saturday Market, where she sold her creations for 8 years before pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Art Practices at Portland State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude.

In 2017 Michelle joined Alberta Street Gallery in Northeast Portland, serving as both gallery manager and board member. During this time, she participated in fine art fairs throughout the Pacific Northwest.

About Kim Nickens
Nine years ago, Kim stumbled upon an online advertisement for Quilling paper, sparking her interest in the craft. After some research, she acquired supplies, and began to master this skill. Her newfound passion became a transformative force in her life, and at the age of 50, Kim discovered a sense of purpose and fulfillment that redirected her path.

Since embarking on this journey, Kim has swiftly cultivated her art career. She enjoys traveling and showcasing her work at art exhibitions across Oregon, Washington, California, Arizona, and Colorado. Her pieces have graced numerous galleries, and she finds inspiration in the creativity of fellow artists. Kim’s passion for art has driven her to assume leadership positions in several galleries, including her longstanding tenure as a board member at the Alberta Street Gallery. She finds fulfillment in fostering the success of others within the industry.