While Whitefish, MT is known for its proximity to Glacier National Park and access to outdoor adventure activities, you will also find a charming downtown area with cultural and fine art venues such as the Sunti World Art Gallery. Shop, dine, and browse in the charming downtown area of Whitefish!
Visiting Sunti World Art Gallery
Housed in a building that dates back to 1905 and was formerly a Methodist Church, the history has been carefully preserved in this landmark building ensuring that when you visit you won’t just be heading inside to enjoy viewing the gallery that lies within, but also be getting a taste of the area’s history in the process. Today, art lovers can enter its interior to browse an art collection that displays pieces by artists from across the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Admire pieces that have been created in a variety of styles and with a variety of mediums. You’ll find a diverse set of different pieces including the warm colors and techniques of oil, the sharper look and style that typically lends itself to acrylic, the softer and more shaded look of pastel, and the dark, mysterious, yet subtle style seen with charcoal. When it comes to type of art, you’ll find a wide range of different inspirations including Native American depictions and art works depicting items or individuals of cultural significance to landscape pieces displaying Montana scenery in such beautiful detail and with such vibrant colors even Thomas Kinkade would find himself impressed, to Khmer Cambodian wood carvings which are sure to be the perfect addition to any cabin-esque like home. However, no matter which of the eclectic collection here is both regionally and globally relevant. Explore two floors of fine art, however, make sure you take time to stop in the gift shop where you can find a variety of items that are sure to be the perfect reminder of your time not only in Whitefish, but also of what is sure to be an interesting and enjoyable experience wandering amongst the carvings, paintings, and other works of art. After browsing the gallery and gift shop, make sure you stop by the café that is onsite! Featuring a variety of different drinks and bites one is sure to find the perfect little snack, or treat, to enjoy as they continue to explore the city and streets of Whitefish. For those colder months of the year, you’ll be able to warm up with a lovely cup of organic specialty coffee, or perhaps have a warm and steamy cup of tea which is sure to hit the spot. One could also grab a deliciously sweet pastry to nibble on and which is sure to go perfectly with your organic cup of joe. One can also choose from their selection of tea sandwiches which are sure to be the perfect nibble and snack to tide you over until you feast at one of the areas delectable eateries. Once you have your bites, head out to their lovely garden which is the perfect place to grab a seat as you enjoy your snack and breath in the fresh mountain air. Of course, one can always grab their hot drink before heading to the main gallery, and sip upon it as you enjoy a historical tour of the various art works that line the walls and sit perched upon their stands.
The owner of Sunti World Art Gallery, Sunti Pichetchaiyakul, is a Thailand native, who has received numerous awards for his works in North America. However, after moving to the Whitefish area, he discovered many similarities between his own culture and that of Native American culture. This led to his Legends of the Americas collection, which commemorates historical Native American heroes. In his own art, Sunti is most well-known for his sculptures that seem to come to life with their realism. His current project is to sculpt the most realistic and historically accurate sculpture of the Buddha. To do so, he is moving beyond the art world and is working closely with a team of experts in archaeology, anthropology, art history, and Buddhist studies.
After browsing, pause to reflect in the Sunti World Art Gallery’s café, where you can refuel with a pastry or light lunch. Add a cup of specialty coffee to your order, which is made from fair trade organic beans from the northern hill tribes of Thailand.
Planning Your Visit to Sunti World Art Gallery
Sunti World Art Gallery is located in Whitefish at 345 Spokane Avenue. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 9am-5pm. The gallery can be contacted at (406) 862-1084 with any questions you may have.
Vacationing in Whitefish, MT
Envision your stay in Whitefish in one of these Whitefish vacation rentals, where you can enjoy easy access to outdoor activities and interesting stops such as the Sunti World Art Gallery! Contact us!