Husband-and-wife artists Bill Atwood and Annie Eskelin began the gallery as Made in Astoria in a small storefront just a few doors from its current location, representing roughly 20 artists. From the beginning, the idea was simple: to create something for artists that went beyond simply selling their work.

The gallery was built around relationships, creative exchange, education, and the belief that spending time with artists and artwork that really connects is one of the great joys one can have. For more than two years, Bill and Annie organized monthly exhibitions, supporting exceptional artists in realizing their ideas. Their kids and friends’ kids’ artwork were featured in the occasional family show, providing an avenue to share and educate a younger generation of makers. They also hosted several open call, fun community shows, giving a broader audience an opportunity to share their work.

In 2025, an opportunity arose to move into the former Erickson’s Floral building. With dramatically more space, including a loft and full basement, the move opened the door to a larger vision for the gallery. The rear of the building became the studio of cohort artist Jeremy Furnish. Soon after, artist Janet Hutchings of West Coast Artisans began operating her fine art printing and embroidery business from the loft, and artist Travis Malone Martin joined the growing creative community.

Today, Confluence continues to present compelling artwork to the Astoria community and its visitors while creating a place where artists, ideas, and people can come together. We look forward to continuing to grow and creating more opportunities to connect with one another through art. Thanks for sharing in our journey.