Surel’s Place, Artist Residence: A Legend Lives On

Artist Surel Mitchell was a force for artistic, familial, and civic collaboration here in Boise. Whether it was a conversation or an art installation, she inspired people of all walks of life to come together to make something beautiful. Originally from Pennsylvania, Surel embraced Boise as her home and she was a vital in making the Boise arts scene the vibrant community it is today. When Surel passed away in 2011, artists, friends, and family mourned the loss of her warm personality and extraordinary talent.

Lucky for all of us, Surel Mitchell’s giving nature and welcoming spirit live on at Surel’s Place. Founded in 2012, Surel’s Place is the only non-profit artist residency in Idaho, as well as the heart and soul of the Surel Mitchell Live-Work-Create District of Garden City. Surel’s home and studio are offered to artists for month-long residencies and professionally supported art events. In this inspiring live/work space, artists of all disciplines are given time and freedom to reflect, create, and share their work with the Idaho community.

Artists-in-residence share their work with the public through free or low-cost events including arts education workshops, classes, exhibits, readings, lectures, school outreach and performances for Treasure Valley community members of all ages and backgrounds. It’s a touching tribute to a woman who certainly left our hometown better than she found it.

The Surel’s Place calendar of public events can be found at surelsplace.org/events. Everyone is welcome to attend art shows, performances, workshops, talks, and First Friday Art Events. Or explore one of our city’s true treasures with the artBike tour of the Live-Work-Create District of Garden City.

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To learn more about Surel’s Place and its impact on our community, head to their website, Facebook, or Instagram.

The Pettitt Group is thrilled to continue supporting local artists and local arts based non-profits.