Kirsten Furlong

Spotlight on Kirsten furlong: A Visionary Artist and Gallery Director

With over 20 years of experience educating emerging artists and guiding them through professional practices, Kirsten Furlong is a dynamic force in the arts community. As a visual artist, gallery director, and arts educator, Kirsten blends persistence with creativity to inspire others and cultivate connections within The Treasure Valley. Passionate about fostering purpose and community, she encourages aspiring artists to embrace diverse learning opportunities and build meaningful relationships in the arts. When not championing creative endeavors, Kirsten finds joy in birdwatching, hiking, and attending art exhibitions—simple pleasures that reflect her deep appreciation for the natural world and artistic expression.

Get to know Kirsten:

Tell us about your current role or business. What do you do, and what impact are you hoping to make?

I am a visual artist, gallery director, and arts educator.

How did you get started in your career or business? Was there a defining moment that inspired you to pursue this path? No, series of many influences evolving over time.

What’s one project, initiative, or accomplishment in your career that you’re most proud of? Educating emerging artists on professional practices for over twenty years.

If someone wanted to follow a similar career path, what advice would you give them? Learn from others who care deeply about the arts, whether higher education, community learning, or apprenticeship, there are many ways to learn in the arts.

What’s one skill or quality that you believe has been essential to your professional success? Persistance

Based on your experience living in The Treasure Valley, what does the First Fridays Boise mission of “Connection, Community, and Culture” mean to you? A community of people who share your values and ways of thinking creatively is essential.

The practice of "networking" can be overwhelming or intimidating. What advice do you have for someone who is looking to network in the community? Quality connections are more important than quantity.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? Keep going but prioritize taking care of yourself.

What is one of your favorite things to do in Idaho? Birdwatching, hiking, attending art exhibitions and events.

What book, podcast, or movie has had the most impact on your personal growth, and why? Knowing and watching folks who make things by hand has influenced me more that books, podcasts, or movies.

What does success look like for you? Feeling a sense of purpose and community every day.

What brings you joy? Birds

What else would you like to share with your First Fridays Boise community? A very comprehensive look at my work just published is here: https://www.alexarosefoundation.org/2025-fellow-kirsten-furlong