Alberta Street in NE Portland (King, Vernon neighborhoods) has been transformed from a sort of grungy artist's enclave to a vibrant street full of popular cafes, bars, clothing stores, salons, and galleries, now known as the Alberta Arts District.

The unique little shops lining Alberta Street highlight handmade local designer clothing, paper mache' lamps, imported gifts, and the Alberta art galleries and shops showcase some fine local work. Scattered throughout are Portland coffee houses and cozy hip hair salons that all function as art galleries with rotating shows of local artists.

Last Thursday is the designation given to the ever-growing event occurring on the last Thursday of each month when each of these establishments is open late and essentially transformed into the artists' opening night reception.

Tiger Tiger salon, of Portland, is a small salon full of its own vision and sure of its place in Portland's trendy Alberta Arts District. Next to the salon, one can get a filling vegetarian "meatball" sub at the Bye And Bye, or any number of gluten-free vegan bakeries and restaurants. The owner, Alisa Schoedinger, has as her shop's theme vintage TV show icons, such as Barbara Eden or Tina Louise; but with a modern edge.

This salon is replete with a spunki-ness in a sort of pop-minimalist-modern way. The chairs have a built in massage function that works its magic while you get shampoo'd and a scalp massage. Oranj Studio is a inspirational, modern yet cozy space, with a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere and provides eco-friendly product lines.

The owner, Tamara Dayton, is intuitive and personable, and taps into people, connecting hair types and strengths to lifestyles and personalities to bring out each client's individual best.

Red Magnolia was founded by Maggie Greener and opened in June 2010. Maggie imagined a space where she could transform an old house into an elegant, inviting place where clients could get outstanding service from talented stylists in a comfortable setting and features a private patio where clients may wait for their appointments or let their color process. Complimentary beverages include wine, sake, mimosas, coffee, and an assortment of delicious teas.

Both Maggie and stylist Jami have nice portfolios of their work on their site.

Spank's mission is a simple one: "Spanking the Ugly out of Portland". There is a loose and confident attitude that runs through the salon, from the easy to know stylists, including Mary who is an expert in dreads to the owner Mitch. Spank is located directly across from The Tin Shed Garden Café - a spiritual journey of good simple cuisine, if ever there was one

These four salons are representative of the alternative energy that is blossoming in Portland. Portland has always been a little left of leeward and home of artistic movements that go back to the "vest pocket" Bohemia and the rise of the IWWW at the turn of the last century.

The new Alberta Arts genesis is in contrast to the continuing maturation of Portland's Pearl District. The Pearl is upscale, trendy and polished. The Alberta Arts area is a study of contrasts with one underlying thread that ties it all up like a collection of dried herbs. The Alberta is a test kitchen of styles, cultures and attitudes and our four salons certainly represents this spicy district.

Capelli d'Oro 2011