DS Watkins Gallery and Studio: Keeping Art Alive In Historic Downtown Kennewick
Art on Auburn
DS Watkins Gallery anchors Auburn and Canal with gargoyles peering over the corners, and eye-catching glass spirals expanding towards the sky on the rooftop patio. The Gallery space is hugged by warm brick walls and beautiful art in many styles by a variety of artists. with a “secret” conversion space that leads to Turtle Dove studios and its three functional art studios.
Since purchasing the building in 1995, Owners Deborah and David Watkins have put their hearts into bringing the 2 story, corner structure back to a renovated version of its original beauty. All while incorporating a modern approach to its functionality.
In its 23 years, the DS Watkins Gallery has seen many variations of business. Opening its doors in 2000 as a Coffee Shop and Gallery, eventually shifting to a private Art Gallery, and becoming a main feature of our Downtown Kennewick First Thursday ArtWalks.
As the world held its breath in 2020 we watched as our entire community made shifts to online sales, curbside pick-up, and home delivery. The slow reopening of business led to many of our beloved Downtown Art Galleries closing their doors, packing up their supplies, and settling into home studios, e-commerce, and outdoor pop-up shopping events.
Deborah and David Watkins were determined to not let Art slip away from Downtown Kennewick. DS Watkins Gallery has been keeping art alive in Downtown Kennewick by providing space for the monthly Art Walk on the First Thursday of each month within their four walls. Hosting an eclectic collection of DS Watkins and other Tri-Cities and PNW artists.
Established in 2000, DS Watkins Gallery has earned a reputation for exhibiting contemporary works in a variety of mediums and is located in Historic Downtown Kennewick’s oldest brick building. The Gallery is open on the First Thursday of each month for ArtWalk from 3:00 – 8:00 PM or by appointment for group or individual viewings.
27N. Auburn Street. 509-546-1843