The James Castle House is deeply rooted in place. The history of the property and its inhabitants are visible at every turn.
The neighborhood that surrounds us holds past and present in equal measure, evidenced through decades of housing styles, new commercial developments, and seemingly untouched stretches of landscape. Experiencing these things in person is much of what makes a visit to the James Castle House irreplaceable.
Under current circumstances, we can offer this experience to our visitors from a distance as they navigate these unusual times. This page contains resources, entertainment, and learning opportunities and will be updated regularly, sharing with you what we find so special about this place. Follow along online, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and with #AtHomeWithJCH.
Image: Untitled (5015 Eugene Street), City of Boise Permanent Collection, courtesy of the James Castle Collection and Archive
Historic Home
Our interior landscapes have and continue to act as family gathering places, spaces for work and creativity, and are witnesses to the lives playing out inside their walls. Similarly, the modest house at 5015 Eugene Street was at the center of James Castle's family life and art making practice for over forty years. The evidence of the Castle family's time on site is still tangible today.
Image: James Castle in Living Room with Lilac Wallpaper, Image courtesy of James Castle Collection and Archive L.P.
On Our Walls
Although the gallery is temporarily closed, our current exhibition, Flip | Side, is available to view from the comfort of your home. Flip | Side is a collection of twelve original artworks by James Castle and twelve facsimiles, allowing both sides of each piece to be viewed simultaneously. This complete view of each work allows us insight into the inventive tools and techniques Castle was so adept with, the daily living habits of the family that cared for him, and the changes in material culture seen over decades.
Community Chats
Join us for Community Chats, 10-15 minute recorded discussions between our residents and members of our community. These one-on-one conversations offer a glimpse into the creative process, ideas and inspiration explored by our residents, and give insight into the experience of living and working on site at the historic James Castle House.
Image: James Castle as a Boy in Garden Valley, Idaho, Tom Trusky Papers, Special Collections and Archives, Boise State University
Home School
The James Castle House is committed to supporting teachers, parents, and their young learners during this challenging time. We know that art can be a powerful tool to investigate a range of subjects, explore emotions, and communicate with others. We hope these lessons and activities will spark creativity, insight, and connection with those around you!
On Our Walls
Online Exhibition
Flip | Side is a collection of twelve original artworks by James Castle and twelve facsimiles, allowing both sides of each piece viewable simultaneously. This complete view of each work allows us insight into the inventive tools and techniques Castle was so adept with, the daily living habits of the family that cared for him, and the changes in material culture seen over decades.
View FLIP | SIDE
On Our Walls Video Series
Community Chats
Home School
Activities
- James Castle House Youth Activity Guide (PDF)
- James Castle House Lesson Plan: Found Paints (PDF)
- James Castle House Lesson Plan: Ekphrastic Writing (PDF)
- James Castle House Lesson Plan: Tissue Paper Paints and Patterns (PDF)
- James Castle House Lesson Plan: Flip|Side Drawing (PDF)
- James Castle House Lesson Plan: Inventing New Letters (PDF)
