|
Art from around state on display at conference center
EUNICE KIM
Statesman Journal
July 15, 2007
Barb Cowan found it difficult to pick a favorite. There was an oil painting titled "Untended Orchard" that reminded her of growing up in Central Oregon and an acrylic-and-fiber piece titled "Approximate Center 4" that intrigued her with its graphic patterns merging into nature settings.
But it was "Crowning Glory," an oil painting of what appeared to be Mount Hood, that won her heart.
"It's just breathtaking," said Cowan, 57. "I love the colors and the movement. You can see the water rushing toward the mountains."
Dozens of people such as Cowan admired an array of paintings, mixed-media work and photography on display at the Salem Conference Center during a reception Saturday of the first Oregon Artists Series Mayor's Invitational. The work of 31 artists adorned the walls and hung on display panels in the first-floor lobby.
"Art is an important amenity for any community," Mayor Janet Taylor said. "The visual stimulation for all ages adds so much to life. This is for the whole community to enjoy."
The invitational came together under the leadership of Shelley Curtis, who curates Oregon State University's Art About Agriculture collection; gallery owner Mary Lou Zeek; and Chrissie Bertsch, general manager of the conference center.
It is the first in a series of yearlong exhibits that will feature art from across the state. This year and each year in the future, jurors will pick one piece of art that will become part of the conference center's permanent collection.
This year's winner was an acrylic painting called "Airlie Autumn" by the late Jim Mattingly of Monmouth.
"He loved the Willamette Valley very much," said his widow, Donnie. "He would be very honored to receive this."
Five other pieces were chosen as honorariums. Their creators each received $500.
One of the winners, Phyllis Yes of Lincoln City, said it was a big commitment to leave her art in the center for a year, but she said it was worth it.
"It's nice to have exposure around the state," she said. "I know a lot of the fellow artists here. I'm in good company."
Spectators said they enjoyed the broad range of work on display, including Rob Bibler's "Mirari," a portrait in blue of a woman in a watery setting, and April Waters' "Willamette River Bend," an oil painting of the Willamette Valley landscape.
Many at the reception praised Salem's recent efforts to support and promote the arts. This year, the Salem City Council approved setting aside funds to buy art for new city buildings.
The mayor's invitational, many said, will open more eyes to art. Those who might not otherwise visit an art gallery or museum may check out the pieces in the conference center and learn of the many established artists in the area.
"It's a great thing for the community," said Carol Green, director of the YWCA. "It's a cultural event in a very public place."
ekim@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6721
|
