KELLOGG — CM Studio and Gallery opened its doors in April and for owner Cassie Hoialmen, it’s all about bringing art to Kellogg.

Hoialmen, 26, is a North Idaho native who spent her youth in the Kootenai County area before relocating to the Silver Valley with her husband.

An artist herself, she quickly realized the art scene in Kellogg was lacking and began putting together a plan.

“I’ve always wanted to open an art gallery,” Hoialmen said. “I’ve always wanted to represent artists and in this town, there isn’t much of an art outlet.”

Her goal was to establish a place that could feature experienced artists, give newer artists a place to get their start, and cultivate a sense of community for the Silver Valley’s art lovers.

“We firmly believe in the power of art to transform lives and inspire connections within our community,” Hoialmen said.

There are now 14 artists with works on display and for sale at CM.

Hoialmen works hard to curate exhibits that force people to stop and take a long look rather than just a give it a passing glance. On her website, Hoialmen says one of her primary goals, and who she is as a person, is embracing things outside traditional comfort zones.

“CM Studio and Gallery is not just a venue for showcasing art; it is a place where creativity flourishes and boundaries are pushed,” Hoialmen said. “Through carefully curated exhibitions and events, we strive to foster an inclusive environment that embraces diversity and encourages collaboration among artists and art enthusiasts.”

Hoialmen says the reception from the community so far has been positive. In a neighborhood of Kellogg previously known for being a hub of business, and working to return to that, she’s happy to be part of the regrowth.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for CM's grand opening was hosted by the Silver Valley Chamber and attended by many from her new neighboring businesses.

“I really wanted something in Kellogg, Wallace has the Eureka Sally Gallery, and I thought something like that could fit here in uptown Kellogg,” she said. “I want to be able to give a largely unrepresented group of people over here some representation.”

Hoialmen has already hosted workshops at the gallery and plans to do more in the future, including coordinating with artists to see if they would like to lead the classes.

As new works and new artists make their way into the gallery, Hoialmen plans to host art walk events whenever exhibits dictate.

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., CM Studio and Gallery is located at 115 McKinley Ave., Kellogg.