The Reno-Tahoe International Art Show (RTIA) made a powerful return in September 2023, marking a transformative moment for the city’s cultural landscape. Held from September 14 to 17 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, the event not only doubled in size compared to previous years but also cemented Reno’s place as an emerging cultural and artistic hub in the American West. With a focus on both local talent and international creators, RTIA attracted thousands of attendees from across the globe, eager to experience one of the most vibrant art shows in the region.
The 2023 RTIA was an expansive celebration of contemporary art, with more than 200 independent artists and over 60 galleries showcasing a diverse array of works. From neon and light installations to abstract sculptures and traditional paintings, the event presented an eclectic mix of mediums that reflected the global nature of contemporary artistic expression. These exhibits highlighted the rich tapestry of cultures and styles represented, with particular emphasis on works by Indigenous artists and those from underrepresented communities.
A notable highlight of this year’s RTIA was the “After Burn” market, which featured large-scale installations directly sourced from the iconic Burning Man festival that took place earlier in the month in the Black Rock Desert. These extraordinary works—many created by artists known for their avant-garde approaches to installation art—provided attendees with a rare opportunity to experience the unique and experimental art that defines Burning Man. These pieces, ranging from monumental sculptures to intricate, interactive installations, added a dynamic layer of creativity to the show and further emphasized the link between Reno and the larger arts community of the Nevada desert.
In addition to the “After Burn” market, the event also featured a Sculpture Walk, which invited visitors to explore a curated collection of outdoor sculptures. Artists like Zoe Dufour, a member of the National Sculpture Society, showcased their pieces in this public outdoor space, making the event accessible to a broader audience and encouraging greater interaction between art and the community. The Sculpture Walk was a particular success, with attendees stopping to admire the works and engage in thoughtful discussions about the art and its impact.
RTIA also distinguished itself by providing a platform for films and video art. The inclusion of short film programming, curated by the Cordillera International Film Festival, gave attendees an opportunity to explore the intersection of visual art and storytelling. This was a first for RTIA and proved to be an essential addition to the show, offering a fresh and dynamic experience that complemented the traditional gallery exhibits.
The event’s success wasn’t just about showcasing art—it also had a significant economic and cultural impact on Reno. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores, saw increased traffic during the four-day event, with some reporting record sales. The downtown area, traditionally known for its vibrant casino scene, found itself buzzing with art enthusiasts, tourists, and creatives, providing a much-needed economic boost to the region. Reno’s image as a center for art and culture has steadily grown in recent years, and events like RTIA only continue to solidify this reputation.
Behind the scenes, the organizers of RTIA worked tirelessly to ensure the show’s success. The event received support from a range of partners, including local arts organizations, private sponsors, and city officials. The collaboration between the public and private sectors allowed for a seamless execution of the show, and the partnerships were key to ensuring that local artists were well-represented alongside global creators.
The 2023 edition of RTIA has set the stage for future events, with organizers already planning for an expanded show in 2024. This year’s success has inspired a renewed commitment to growing the arts scene in Reno, and it is expected that future iterations of RTIA will continue to attract national and international attention, elevating the region’s status as a premier arts destination.
The legacy of the 2023 Reno-Tahoe International Art Show extends beyond the exhibits and installations seen at the event. It has sparked conversations about the role of art in community development and has ignited new conversations about the intersection of culture, commerce, and creativity. For Reno, this is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting cultural renaissance in the years to come.