SISTERS
by Jim Horsley
A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SPECIAL EVENTS IN THE TOWN OF SISTERS
ARTS | CULTURE | EVENTS
SPRING 2013
Community Parade, Art Stroll, Art Auction and Entertainment
by Bethany Gunnarson
INSIDE:
Friday-Saturday, April 12-13
MY OWN TWO HANDS ARTIST PROFILES
by Erica Lowry
Endorsed by
ART STROLL LOCATIONS COMMUNITY PARADE ART AUCTION & PARTY Advertising Supplement to The Bulletin | Published March 29, 2013
PARADE, ART STROLL & PERFORMING ARTS EVENING: Friday, April 12 | ART AUCTION & PARTY: Saturday, April 13
My Own Two Hands
The annual fundraising event bringing artists and the community together for the benefit of arts education in Sisters schools.
EVENTS
“Deep Roots” Community Parade Friday, April 12 • 4 p.m.
Now in its fourth year, the community parade will feature work depicting this year’s theme as interpreted by local artists and community members through My Own Two Hands’ Common Canvas Project. Thanks to Kit Stafford and the teachers in the Sisters School District for “parading” their art.
Art Stroll Friday, April 12 • 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.
at
From FivePine Lodge and Conference Center to Blazin’ Saddles and beyond, enjoy musical performances at 17 locations and see displayed donated art created by professionals and students. Thanks so much to all the Art Stroll locations and Artist Sponsors who helped make the Art Stroll a success!
Performing Arts Evening
My Own Two Hands by Gregg Morris, for The Bulletin Special Projects
Friday, April 12 • 6:30 p.m. At FivePine Lodge and Conference Center, the Performing Arts Evening will feature music provided by young artists/ students of the Americana Project. Tickets, which include entertainment and food, can be purchased at the door for $10, or $5 for students.
Art Auction & Party Saturday, April 13 • Starts at 6 p.m. Community Art Auction and Party at Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks includes live and silent auctions for art by regional artists and students of the Sisters School District. Music provided by the Stolen Sweets. Advance ticket purchase required. Call 541-549-4979.
Event Information www.sistersfolkfestival.org 541-549-4979 SIS TE RS AME RI CANA PR OJ E CT
and amateur, has come full circle as the artists donate their time and artwork to this worthy cause. This year’s two-day My Own Two Hands celebration will by held Friday and Saturday, April 12 and 13. The festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. Friday with the Art Stroll through downtown Sisters. Local musicians, such as the String Junkies, Anastacia and Americana Project alumni Benji Nagel and Jena Rickards provide the live soundtrack as artists display their work at the local shops and galleries.
As the major fundraiser for the Americana Project and other Sisters Folk Festival-affiliated programs, My Own Two Hands has helped create an arts connection between the Sisters community and its students. Since 2001, the once-a-year celebration has become a can’tmiss event for Central Oregonians. “My Own Two Hands is the giver of life to the Americana Project and Sisters Folk Festival programs,” said Katy Yoder, development director for Sisters Folk Festival. “The money we raise is put back into programming, from preschool to high school, in a variety of art forms.” Now in its 12th year, My Own Two Hands, including its Common Canvas Project, has managed to demonstrate the natural connections between performance art, visual art and the written word. The second weekend in April has morphed into a complete celebration of the arts. Sisters by Meganne Englich-Mills Folk Festival’s support of artists, both professional
Event Sponsors: The Starview Foundation Additional Event Sponsors: The Bulletin • KOHD • Zolo Media • Depot Cafe • RE/MAX, LLC • Three Creeks Brewing Co. • Two Old Hippies & Breedlove Guitars • Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks • FivePine Lodge & Conference Center • Tate & Tate Catering 2 | Sisters Magazine | My Own Two Hands 2013
The Community Parade will march down Hood Avenue between Pine and Spruce streets beginning at 4 p.m. As day turns to night, art revelers are invited to the FivePine Conference Center at 1021 Desperado Trail to enjoy a Performing Arts Evening. Current Americana Project students will perform for your listening pleasure. Last year’s party saw 400 people enjoying the sounds of the talented group of students. Saturday evening, Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, located at 207 W. Sisters Park Drive, will once again play host to My Own Two Hands’ Art Auction and Party. Beginning at 6 p.m., attendees and art enthusiasts will view and bid on nearly 100 different pieces of art. Seventy-five of the donated pieces will be part of a silent auction, with the remaining 25 pieces the subject of a live auction. by Bill Hamilton
“We are excited about the quality of art in this year’s event,” said Yoder. “While the majority of artists are from Sisters, we do have other Central Oregon and regional artists as well.” In addition to the professional artists, 10 Sisters High School students were juried into the showing. Bethany Gunnarson, a Sisters High School art teacher, will have a piece as well. Included this year are Native American artists Rick Bartow and Lillian Pitt. Bartow, a Newport, Oregon artist, will show a monotype art piece. Hailing from the Columbia River area, Pitt will display her three-dimensional ceramic piece.
Deep Roots
This year’s My Own Two Hands theme is “Deep Roots.” Sisters High School student Erica Lowry painted this year’s theme image. The theme is chosen a year in advance to give artists time to
gear their work toward the motif. “It is an interesting process as we try to combine the imagery that inspires the visual artists and encompasses the arts component of the Sisters Folk Festival,” Yoder said. “We get suggestions from the artists, then the My Own Two Hands committee votes on the theme. ” My Own Two Hands has unveiled a few changes to the event in an attempt to take it to a new level. The most significant change for 2013 is that My Own Two Hands is now a juried art event. “We tried to find a way to improve the event through feedback,” Yoder said. “The contributing artists suggested having an anonymous and impartial jury. We feel it brings a more fair and professional attitude to the event.” Also new this year will be a more intimate feel to the auction and party. By reducing the number of attendees, The My Own two Hands staff and 120 volunteers hope to increase the comfort level of the event. More seating and an additional tent will make viewing and bidding on the artwork an easier and more pleasant prospect. The Stolen Sweets, a Portlandbased, gypsy-swing band, will provide the music.
Community-based
While the money My Own Two Hands raises goes to supporting the multiple Americana Project programs, the weekend celebration also benefits the community. By bringing together the community and artists, a greater understanding of both is achieved. “The thing I am most proud of is that every event we produce builds community and supports the various programs,” said Brad Tisdel, executive director of Folk Festival. “We try very hard to engage all members of the community. I want to live in a place where people feel connected with a sense of belonging.” For more information about My Own Two Hands, Sisters Folk Festival or the Americana Project, visit www. sistersfolkfestival.org or call 541-5494979.
Sisters Folk Festival’s
Americana Project The Americana Project, an educational outreach program of Sisters Folk Festival Inc., provides opportunities for young people to express themselves creatively in many ways including writing songs, singing, performing, recording/engineering, building guitars and ukuleles, and many visual arts mediums. After 13 years in the Sisters School District, the Sisters Americana Project has become one of the flagship programs for the district. The public/private partnership between the district and Sisters Folk Festival has inspired other community entities to help bring innovative programming into the schools and community. It has become a model for community integration and has helped maintain and grow many of the programs offered. The support from the community throughout the year and during the My Own Two Hands celebration helps continue the innovative and award-winning arts-education programming. Below is a list of programs we provide in the arts through the Sisters Americana Project in the Sisters School District:
Sisters High School
• Scholarship awards for graduating students in visual and performing arts • Scholarships to Americana Song & Arts Academy and Song Academy for Youth • SHS Americana Project class provides teacher support, materials, guitars/ instruments, songwriting, and performing opportunities • National, regional and local guest artists/ mentors in classroom • Audio engineering instruction/production of Americana Project CD release • Common Canvas Community Arts Day • Annual gift to SHS art, choir and music departments • Administration and funding for Americana Community Luthier Program • Annual gift to SHS Guitar-building program and scholarships for students
Sisters Middle School
• SMS Americana Project class teacher, visualarts instruction, materials, guitars/instruments, songwriting, guitar playing, performing • Workshops/materials to all three Sisters Schools for My Own Two Hands • Americana Project Guitar Club funding for after-school classes • National, regional and local guest artists/ mentors in classroom
Sisters Elementary School
• Visual-arts teacher training at SES by local artists to ensure 100 percent student participation • On-staff arts coordinator for My Own Two Hands • Materials in support of My Own Two Hands art workshops at SES • Classroom set of ukuleles • National, regional and local guest artists/ mentors in classroom
Americana Project Partners & Supporters: The Roundhouse Foundation • Chichester DuPont Foundation • Oregon Community Foundation –Fred Fields Foundation • Ward Family Fund • TJ Education Fund • Marie Lamfrom Charitable Fund • PGE Foundation • Oregon Arts Commission • Starview Foundation • Caldera • Two Old Hippies/Breedlove Guitar Co. • Bank of the Cascades • Mike Ilg • Cris Converse • Joan Griffiths • Sisters Park and Recreation District • Wendie & Mike Vermillion • Dick Sandvik & Diane Campbell • Laura & David Hiller My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 3
MY OWN TWO HANDS PARADE & COMMON CANVAS PROJECT: Sisters Community
Community
Parade
Art of Sustainability Local artist teaches the art of upcycling at Common Canvas event.
Friday, April 12, 4 p.m.
As part of this year’s My Own Two Hands celebration, local artists and community members of all ages created and decorated items for display during the Community Parade, Art Stroll and Art Auction and Party. “Each year, we come up with a theme we think will spark people’s creativity that at the same time has some sort of uplifting message and is broad enough to be interpreted in a variety of ways,” said Katy Yoder, development director for Sisters Folk Festival. This year’s message is one of heritage: “Deep Roots” On Sunday, March 3, both adults and children gathered at The Belfry to express their creativity with projects relating to the theme.
by Bridget McGinn, for The Bulletin Originally created to act as a catalyst for bringing together artists and those who love art, Common Canvas Community Art Day (CCCAD) — part of the My Own Two Hands celebration of the arts — went back to its roots this year and invited the community to learn and create together. “The theme for My Own Two Hands this year is ‘Deep Roots,’ and we wanted to honor our own roots and go back to focusing on the community-building aspect of the event.,” said Katy Yoder, development director of Sisters Folk Festival, Inc., the umbrella organization for the program. Upcycling artist Sara Wiener was invited to lead CCCAD, held in early March at The Belfry in Sisters. Wiener, who owns Sara Bella Upcycled in Bend, has also taught art classes previously at several of the Sisters area schools.
A Thank
“quilt” pieces together into the final community canvas banner. “Everyone had smiles on their faces and they were intrigued with the process of making collages out of plastic bag pieces and then ironing them to create a piece of art for the quilt,” said Wiener. Yoder was pleased to see that the participants truly embodied the spirit of the event by first learning the techniques, then teaching and sharing with others throughout the day. “It was especially neat to see the kids learning themselves and then helping others,” said Yoder. “Through this event I think we really were able to get back to the original intent of the program and bring our community together around the arts.”
You to our Volunteers
Each year, the production of My Own Two Hands requires the tireless efforts of so many dedicated people, from the artists who donate beautiful pieces, to dedicated buyers whose purchases provide much-needed funding for the Americana programs in all of the Sisters schools. As a result of these efforts the Americana Project is now being replicated by Creative Educational Resources LLC as a model program in 4 other communities. All of these students are brought together each year for the Americana Song Academy for Youth weekend here in Sisters, hosted by Sisters Folk Festival. At the core of the planning for these events and the My Own Two Hands celebration are all of the volunteers who give so generously of their time and talents to make each event a success. My Own Two Hands volunteers work for weeks in preparation for the two-day 4 | Sisters Magazine | My Own Two Hands 2013
“The goal was to involve youth and adults alike from the community to participate in an art project that goes along with the values and ideals of the Folk Festival as being environmentally green, sustainable and resourceful with materials,” said Wiener. “And also to teach people the art of upcycling plastic bags so they can go home and do it themselves and rescue bags from landfills and waterways.” Attendees of all ages learned how to fuse and transform plastic bags into colorful flags, bags and a community canvas banner, all “paradable art” that will be carried in the MOTH community parade on Friday, April 12 at 4 p.m. Quilter Janelle Rebick volunteered at the event helping to sew the participants’
event. They process the art intake; get all of the art to the stroll locations; organize the student parade on Friday; plan the Americana students’ performance night at FivePine Conference Center; set up, clean and decorate Ponderosa Forge and Ironworks for Saturday night’s live and silent auction event; check in attendees; serve as bartenders and auction spotters; wrap all of the artwork for purchase and then take it all down and clean it up again on Sunday. There are so many other tasks around all of the prep that would fall through the cracks without the help of our dedicated volunteers. On behalf of the Sisters Folk Festival Board of Directors and staff, and all the students in our community who will benefit from their participation in the Americana Project, a sincere and heartfelt thank you to all of you who have given your time and energy to make the 2013 My Own Two Hands event possible.
COMMUNITY PARADE ROUTE & ART STROLL LOCATIONS: Friday, April 12
Art Stroll 2013 Friday, April 12, 3:30-6:30 p.m.
1. Sisters Art Works Building Music by Americana Project Students
204 W Adams Ave.
10. Common Threads Music by Americana Project Students
161 E Cascade Ave.
2. Metamorphosis Salon & Spa Music by Anastacia
161 N Elm St., Ste. C
11. Metolius Property Sales Music by Mike Biggers
290 E Cascade Ave.
3. Abigail’s on Main
192 E Main Ave.
4. The Belfry Music by David Z/Joe Leonardi
302 E Main Ave.
12. Blazin’ Saddles Music by String Junkies
413 W Hood Ave.
18. Navigator News Music by Bruce Schweitzer
303 W Hood Ave.
19. Old Western Antiques and Books 183 E Hood Ave. Music by Summit High Americana Project Students
143 E Hood Ave.
5. Stitchin’ Post Music by Jeremiah Rush
311 W Cascade Ave.
13. Clearwater Gallery Music by Jena Rickards
290 W Cascade Ave.
14. Sisters Coffee Company Music by Americana Project Students
273 W Hood Ave.
6. Mackenzie Creek Mercantile
20. Cork Cellars / Melvin’s Fir St. Market Music by Allan Byer
7. Depot Cafe Music by Benji Nagel
250 W Cascade Ave.
15. Paulina Springs Books Music by Jim Cornelius
252 W Hood Ave.
21. FivePine Lodge & Conf. Center
16. Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop Music by Patrick Lombardi
252 W Hood Ave.
17. Don Terra Artworks Music by Rusty Rayls & the Rounders
222 W Hood Ave.
8. The Jewell 9. Alpaca By Design Music by Appaloosa
221 W Cascade Ave., Ste. A 140 W Cascade Ave.
22. Three Creeks Brewing Co.
160 S Fir St.
1021 Desperado Tr. 721 Desperado Ct.
Music by Sisters High School Jazz Choir, Roaming Through Town
My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 5
ART AUCTION & PARTY: Saturday, April 13, 6 p.m. • Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, Sisters
A Big Thank-You to These Folks The My Own Two Hands committee: Brad Tisdel, Katy Yoder, Pete Rathbun, Jeannine Munkres, Kit Stafford, Pamela Burry, Susan Johnson and Steve Mathews. Sisters Folk Festival Board of Directors: Jim Cornelius, Jack McGowan, Jim Cunningham, Jay Mather, Steve Mathews, Marean Jordan, Cris Converse, Sue Boettner & Jeff Smith. We are also deeply grateful to Kathy Deggendorfer, Dennis Turmon Auctioneer Services, Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, FivePine Lodge & Conference Center, Three Creeks Brewing Co., Fullhart Insurance of Sisters, Ray’s Food Place, Sisters Rental, Mission Linen, GFP Enterprises, Sonic Solutions, Sisters School District, and all of our year-round sponsors. We are appreciative of Clearwater Gallery, Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop and Eastlake Framing, LLC for their excellent work as Framing Sponsors.
ENTERTAINMENT:
The Stolen Sweets
The Art Auction and Party, hosted by Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, is a community celebration that has unique Sisters Country character. Taking place in a working forge, the transformation is remarkable and the venue provides an exceptional backdrop for displaying the stunning donated art. Delicious food is provided by Tate and Tate Catering, and Deschutes Brewery and Lange Winery will offer tasty libations. The evening will feature the music of The Stolen Sweets of Portland, which performs high-energy 1930s swing jazz confections. The “Sweets” feature seamless three-part vocal harmonies while delivering a brand of vintage acoustic jazz inspired by the New Orleans sound of the Boswell Sisters, a popular 1930s girl group.
Our team leaders Susan Johnson, Rebecca Sokol, Pam Simundson, Tracy Curtis, Ann Richardson and Jeri Buckmann; all participating art stroll musicians; our Americana student volunteers; our volunteer cleaning, set-up, decorating, auction, event management and breakdown crews; and a big thank-you to all contributing visual artists and non-art contributors, without which the My Own Two Hands fundraiser each year would not be possible.
Sisters Folk Arts Circle Being a Sisters Folk Arts Circle member is a great way to support Sisters Folk Festival Inc. programming, get tickets to SFF events, make a tax-deductible donation and get some valuable perks. Membership helps tremendously with our efforts to provide year-long cultural arts and education opportunities. Give the SFF office a call at 541-549-4979, and let’s talk about how you can get involved. Annual memberships are available from $1,500 to $5,000. It’s a great way to invest in the future of arts and culture in Oregon.
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6 | Sisters Magazine | My Own Two Hands 2013
The following four pages feature a listing of generous artists who offered their time and talents for the benefit of education and the arts. SUSAN ADAMS: “Cactus & Succulent Garden w/ Stand” Susan Adams has been a professional potter for 20 years. She teaches ceramics in her studio, Ranch Adams Pottery; as well as at the Redmond Campus of COCC. This year, she pairs a ceramic jug and bowl with cactus she grew from seed. Stroll Location: Metolius Property Sales; Sponsor: The Gallery Restaurant SKIP ARMSTRONG: “Oregon Roots” With Oregon known as the Beaver State, Skip saw this piece as a great example of Oregon roots. All you beaver fans out there, what better way to show your support than displaying these majestic, powerful beavers. Skip’s world-renowned skills as a carver and artist have brought him notoriety making his work in high demand. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Annie Andreson - Coldwell Banker
RICK BARTOW: “Rick Bartow” Rick Bartow’s piece is titled Kings Valley Kestrel for Jim M. An internationally acclaimed artist, Bartow is a member of the Wiyot/Mad River Band. Bartow’s work is included in many collections including The Smithsonian/National Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C. He is from Newport, OR and is represented by the Charles Froelick Gallery in Portland. Stroll Location & Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop NANCY BECKER: “Georgia Series Red Leaf” For 30 years glass artist, Nancy Becker, has been expanding the range of her work. Organic shapes and fiery colors have been her standard. The recipient of many awards, Nancy is represented by Tumalo Art Co. in Bend. This piece, from her leaf series, is a prize for any art lover. Stroll Location: The Jewel; Sponsor: Jen’s Garden PAUL ALAN BENNETT: “Family Roots” When considering the theme “Deep Roots,” Paul thought of parents, grandparents and babies; family roots through the ages. Widely collected, Paul has been practicing his art for 30 years and has translated his work into prints, greeting cards and tapestries. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop; Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Rheuben, DMD
by Paul Alan Bennett
KATE ASPEN: “Through Many Hands” These beautiful glass beads are nearly a hundred years old and were traded and bartered through Europe from Czechoslovakia as a form of currency. Jewelry designer and shop keeper, Kate Aspen, was featured on Oregon Art Beat in 2000. All her pieces are individually designed and enormously popular at auction. Stroll Location: Metolius Property Sales; Sponsor: Pony Express GORDON K. BAKER: “Mount Bachelor” As a geologist, environmentalist and artist, Gordon is interested in combining all of those interests into his paintings, which record his impressions and the prevailing mood of nature. Gordon’s themes have Deep Roots in the western landscape. Stroll Location: Three Creeks Brewing Company; Sponsor: Cascade Vacation Rentals KAY BAKER: “Solace” Plein air artist, Kay Baker, pulls the viewer into this gentle landscape, as a large cloud foretells a storm. Her oil paintings, full of impressionistic light, are in private and public collections throughout the U.S. Stroll Location: Alpaca By Design; Sponsor: Green Ridge Physical Therapy
DANAE BENNETT-MILLER: “Flight of Life” Ranging in size from table-top pieces to large public sculptures, Danae’s one-of-a-kind bronze pieces have become a part of the Central Oregon Landscape. Whether tending her chickens on her ranch, or installing art in roundabouts in Bend, Danae has “Deep Roots” in the community. Stroll Location: The Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: Deschutes Brewery WENDY BIRNBAUM: “Irish Yarns” Last year, Wendy’s contribution was a photograph taken in Patagonia; this year’s is taken in a woolen mill in Ireland. Brilliant spools of Donegal tweed are waiting to become sweaters. She knits her passion for photography with her “Deep Roots” for travel. Stroll Location: The Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: BendBroadband
by Mike Bush
WENDY BIRNBAUM: “Irish Famine Cottage” Irish families had to flee the potato famine in 1845, and classic cottages like this were abandoned. Wendy preserves that history with this atmospheric photograph on canvas. Stroll Location: Old Western Antiques and Books; Sponsor: Jim & Dana Cunningham
by Nancy Becker
CROW BLACK: “Sterling Necklace and Earrings” Jewelry maker and potter, Crow Black, submits these perfect hand-hammered sterling silver hoop earrings with accompanying necklace. Put your bid in. These will go fast! Stroll Location: Don Terra Artworks; Sponsor: Les Schwab Tire Centers CROW BLACK: “Soup and Salad” Veteran contributor, Crow Black, offers this threepiece ceramic set in traditional blues: large salad bowl and covered soup tureen, a treasure for any kitchen. The perfect balance between beauty and utility. Stroll Location: Don Terra Artworks; Sponsor: Sisters Rental CROW BLACK: “Anticlastic Bronze Bracelet and Earrings” This bracelet will grow like soft roots around the wrist of the person who wears it. Organic shape, elegant patina bronze, resembling the “Deep Roots” of a tree. Exceptional gift for a loved one. Stroll Location: Don Terra Artworks; Sponsor: Central Bark BOB BOUSQUET: “Spalted Ohia Pedestal” Bob Bousquet has been working in wood since grade school. Preferring simple designs and long lines to accentuate the grain in the wood, his art lends a simple elegance to function. Anyone would want this perfect side table. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters MARGARET BRAND: “View of the Valley” We welcome Peg Brand as a first time contributor to My Own Two Hands. Hailing from Wisconsin, Peg is a long time artist with many solo and group shows to her credit. Feathers and rice were affixed to the woodblock for this print creating a unique reflection of the natural world. Stroll Location: Navigator News; Sponsor: The Paper Place
JOANN BURGESS: “Silent Landscape” Joann is passionate about nature and discovered her art while outdoors in Central Oregon. This painting was taken from a photo of Clear Lake and brought her nearer to her love for Central Oregon’s art and culture. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Hair & Skin Renewal; Sponsor: The Fly Fisher’s Place MIKE BUSH: “Wooden Spoons (2)” Mike rarely sells his beautiful myrtle wood spoons, but now is your opportunity to have a pair of your own. Intricately carved, using numerous shaping bits, these “Spoons of Love” would turn any dinner into a feast. Stroll Location: Blazin Saddles; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc. HALEY CARLSON: “Untitled” As a third year art student at Sisters High School, Haley Carlson has also experimented with jewelry making and ceramics, but painting is her most comfortable expression. Bold color and shapes show a fierce connection to the landscape. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Construction Management Services, Inc. BOB COLLINS: “Exultate Galileo Galilei” The moons of Jupiter, molten lava and the spaceship Galileo are a few of the symbols multimedia artist Bob Collins uses to express how “we come from cosmic roots.” Bob has been making art for 45 years and never disappoints. Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: Sisters Rental
JANIT BROCKWAY: “Morphic Field” Artist, art advocate and proprietor of the celebrated shop Bedouin, Janit has “Deep Roots” in the Sisters Community. Combining line, form and color, this piece confirms Janit’s ability to capture what is alive and dynamic in the natural world. Stroll Location: Melvin’s Fir St. Market & Cork; Sponsor: South Valley Bank & Trust JUSTINE BRUGUIER: “Stone and Rust” Sisters High School student Justine Bruguier, thought about family, the natural world and music when considering “Deep Roots” and creating this fantastically alive sculpture using an old misshapen guitar, a tree root and obsidian. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: VanHandel Automotive
by Mitch and Michelle Deadrick
My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 7
GLEN CORBETT: “Oregon Grape - State Flower” Glen Corbett is widely known as a Central Oregon painter with a passion for painting Black Butte. Recently Glen has turned her huge talent to rendering botanicals with meticulous care. Here is the state flower, Oregon Grape; and Sweet Tamarack, prolific in the Metolius Basin which is Glen’s home. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop JIM CUNNINGHAM: “Deep Roots - Furniture” Jim has been in the furniture business for 25 years and since retirement has turned his own hand to the craft. The base of this table is American walnut; the top is a slab of myrtle wood whose roots were lifted from the ground. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Advanced Systems Portable Restrooms, Inc. MITCH & MICHELLE DEADRICK: “Earth Crystal” The Deadricks have been a pottery team in Central Oregon for over 30 years. The crystal in this beautiful vase expresses the light emerging into the world from red molten lava. Stroll Location: Common Threads; Sponsor: Central Bark
by Janice Druian
LAURENCE DYER: “Koa and Black Walnut Chest” Laurence Dyer began working in wood in high school shop class. Early on, he hand crafted a rowboat and four inboard runabouts. This exquisite five-drawer chest is hand-made of koa and black walnut. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Trading Co.; Sponsor: Construction Management Services, Inc. LAURENCE DYER: “Koa and Mango Chest” This beautifully crafted two-drawer chest with a deep top opening is made of koa and mango. It is just waiting to become a family heirloom. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Trading Co.; Sponsor: Mission Linen Supply, Inc.
STEVEN FRANDSEN: “Dream Catcher” Turtle shell from Guatemala; amethyst from South Africa; beads and arrowheads and charms from Oregon; and Djembe drumhead combine to create this “Deep Roots” medicine wheel mandala. Artist Steve Frandsen is our wildman of the arts and the spiritual world. Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: Green Ridge Physical Therapy
BETHANY GUNNARSON: “Untitled” Beginnings and endings, births and deaths, mothers and fathers: this work by Sisters High School art teacher Bethany Gunnarson is about origins. Our origins influence us deeply, as the symbols of this vibrant watercolor suggest. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop
GABRIELLE FRANKE: “Kitchen Cart” First time contributor Gabrielle Franke started woodworking 12 years ago and offers us this butcher block kitchen cart in maple, with red oak frame and middle adjustable shelf, expanding to 60” for extra cooking space. Great addition to your kitchen. Stroll Location: Old Western Antiques and Books; Sponsor: Shake, Log and Timber, LLC
BILL HAMILTON: “Mount Hood” Bill has had 40 years of commercial and gallery art experience. Mount Hood, as seen here, is a favorite mountain for Bill to visit and paint, along with the Three Sisters near his home in Tumalo where he has his studio. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction
ROD FREDERICK: “Fire in The Sky” During a trip to Central America, Rod found these scarlet macaws in a tree among the Mayan ruins. We have “Deep Roots” in civilizations from times past. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Action Air Heating & Cooling ROD FREDERICK: “An Early Light Breakfast” This watercolor study later became a larger oil painting. Rod shows the timelessness of nature. At one time, bison were found throughout much of Oregon. This setting is Crane Prairie. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Dyer Construction & Renovation, Inc.
by Laurence Dyer
DEPOT CAFE: “Depot Cafe Dinner” You’ll love this auction favorite! Bring 11 of your closest friends to Depot Café for a night of delicious food, fine wine and live entertainment by SFF’s own Brad Tisdel. Pam and Chris Wavrin will be your hosts for an evening to remember. Stroll Location: Depot Cafe; Sponsor: Construction Management Services, Inc. JANICE DRUIAN: “Their Roots Run Deep” Janice decided to paint aspens due to their long life and massive root system, expressing “Deep Roots” and longevity. Widely collected and represented, two of her large paintings have recently been hung in St. Charles Hospital. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery ANDREW DYER: “Dyer Guitar” Grandson of master wood worker Laurence Dyer, Andrew re-crafted this piece in guitar-making class at Sisters High School. Using spuce, myrtle wood and ebony he turned this beast into a beauty with good sound! Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades
MEGANNE ENGLICH-MILLS: “Untitled” Born in Portland, raised in Sisters, Meganne EnglichMills conveys the feeling of “Deep Roots” in her tabletop wire and wood construction. Nature, she believes, provides the best expression for her passion for music, particularly the blues. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Sisters Drug & Gift Co.
NORMA HOLMES: “On The Road to Strawberry Mountain” Norma is presently working on a painted travel guide, a book portraying the beauty of Oregon’s East Side. This painting will be included in the book as a full-page spread. She is represented by Mockingbird Gallery in Bend. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Cascade Vacation Rentals by Jackie Erickson
ROD FREDERICK: “Moonlighting” A full time artist since 1978, Rod has used his extensive travels as inspiration for his work. Here, an ocelot is on his nightly prowl in Guatemala. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Rheuben, DMD
JACKIE ERICKSON: “Gathering Basket” With a background in quilting and design, Jackie has been working in fiber arts for over 30 years. This gathering basket is made from Batik-covered recycled cotton clothesline. Brilliant! Stroll Location: The Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction
LIZ GANJI: “Devour” Painting professionally for 9 years, Liz is a long time, beloved contributor to My Own Two Hands and is represented by Clearwater Gallery. She makes her home SW Washington and her work beautifully captures quiet moments in the natural world. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery
BERYL FOUST-HOVEY: “First Snow - Indian Ford Preserve” Beryl painted Indian Ford Preserve plein air, as one of the most inspiring locations in Sisters. The meadow was donated in 1996 to protect its scenic views and wildlife habitat. To honor this special gift of the preserve, she painted this picture of the “First Snowfall.” Stroll Location: FivePine Lodge; Sponsor: Pony Express
WINNIE GIVOT: “Aging Beauty” Many celebrated collectors have a watercolor by Winne Givot, including President Obama and Governor Kitzhaber. This old juniper is near her studio in Sisters where she has taught for many years. It represents aging, with strength and beauty. Stroll Location: Alpaca By Design; Sponsor: South Valley Bank & Trust
8 | Sisters Magazine | My Own Two Hands 2013
JACK HARTMAN: “All Dressed Up” Artist, ranch hand and collector, Jack Hartman, dresses up this native American in brilliant profile. Feathers and beads and half-painted face, we imagine he is a man in transition, remembering his “Deep Roots.” Stroll Location: Old Western Antiques and Books; Sponsor: Kimberley Fisher, Independent Associate, LegalShield (SM) BERTA & REX HEISLER: “Necklace & Earings” Dichronic glass contains multiple layers of metals and oxides which transmit color and reflected light. Berta Heisler, jewelry maker, offers for auction this fused earring and necklace set in cool colors, with warm effect. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Hair & Skin Renewal; Sponsor: Les Schwab Tire Centers
LAURENCE DYER: “Koa Jewelry Box” Laurence hand-selects each piece of wood based on its size, shape and feel and applies that to one box at a time. Each are magically unique; to be enjoyed for generations, as is this swing-drawer beauty in koa wood. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Trading Co.; Sponsor: Jen’s Garden KAREN Z ELLIS: “Aspen Equinox 1/1” A resident of Camp Sherman and an art teacher at COCC for the last 8 years, Karen Ellis continues to explore shapes, colors, textures in the natural world. This monotype reflects nature’s beauty “as if in shards of a broken mirror.” Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: Ray’s Food Place
SYDNEY HARRISON: “Forest Life” Sydney grew up on the McKenzie River and has always felt a deep connection to the forests - her playground. This combination of fabrics represents her life, growing up around woods and river. Stroll Location: The Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc.
by Karen Ellis
JOANIE KEAST: “American Made” Joanie’s love for shoes influenced her thoughts for her contribution: mosaic pieces on the classic cowboy boot. “American Roots” represents the “Deep Roots” of our Western American heritage which is alive and well in Central Oregon. Stroll Location: FivePine Lodge; Sponsor: Shake, Log and Timber, LLC HEDI KERSHAW: “Beaded Necklace and Earrings” Jewelry maker Hedi Kershaw offers this striking onyx and gaspetie beaded necklace and earring set which would make a perfect gift. Stroll Location: Don Terra Artworks; Sponsor: Jim & Dana Cunningham
by Steven Frandsen
JIM HORSLEY: “Three Sisters Sunrise” There are few moments as beautiful as when the sun hits the Three Sisters at the beginning of the day. The tranquility and serenity of a lone horseman in the shadow of the mountains captures the best of the Central Oregon experience. Stroll Location: Sisters Coffee; Sponsor: Pony Express PATRICK HORSLEY: “Purple Vase” Patrick’s work is influenced by contemporary and primitive architecture. His utilitarian forms have an elegant life all their own. He has taught ceramic classes and workshops all over the country and has been honored with many awards. Stroll Location: The Jewel; Sponsor: Annie Andreson - Coldwell Banker HOUSE ON METOLIUS: “House on Metolius Dinner” Held in Camp Sherman’s unsurpassed beauty, host a party of 8 with a 3 course meal that includes northwest wine pairings provided personally by Don and Wendy Lange. Evening includes 4 rooms, double occupancy in the main lodge... now if you can just get Don to bring his guitar! Stroll Location: Blazin Saddles; Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Rheuben, DMD RICK JUDY: “Litigator / Client” Rick says “I like motion in sculpture, and it’s a must to have a sense of humor. These issues (litigator / client) have been around forever. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Jim & Dana Cunningham RICK JUDY: “At The Bridge” by Joanie Keast This photograph captures a quick view from a bridge over an Oregon river. Rick Judy has spent a lot of time under this bridge and the beauty of the scene was an inspiration. Stroll Location: Depot Cafe; Sponsor: Kimberley Fisher, Independent Associate, LegalShield (SM)
BETSY LEIGHTY-JOHNSON: “Deep Roots - Steampunk Style” This jewelry set represents the deep components of our modern world. Inventors have paved the way for transportation, manufacturing, and our industrial world. Betsy believes that this work represents the “Deep Roots” of our industrial age. Stroll Location: Sisters Coffee; Sponsor: Sisters Rental ERICA LOWRY: “Americana” Erica is a student at Sisters High School and has been involved in the arts program for 4 years. This year her work was chosen for the art image for My Own Two Hands. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast
by Hadley McCann
ROGER WHITE & STEVE MATHEWS: “Sofa / Hall Table” Steve Matthews built the table, doodled the original “Roots” design, handed it off to Roger White, who added the original neon effects. As they say, “It’s pretty darned rooty.” Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Cascade Vacation Rentals JAKE MCALLISTER: “Japanese Barrette” Jake McAllister is a junior at Sister High School and this is his first year donating to My Own Two Hands. This beautiful cast silver barrette, with repeated organic shapes and curved body, was made in a jewelry class taught at the high school. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Ray’s Food Place
SUSAN LUCKEY HIGDON: “Smith Rock Snag” Smith Rock is one of Susan’s favorite “God” spots. Iconic and often painted, it is challenging to find a different angle. This scene has a distinctive dark red rock that sets it apart. The weathered snag and ancient rock speak of roots deep in the earth - withstanding all of the elements, immovable, solid, unchanging. Stroll Location: Three Creeks Brewing Company; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters RITA MACDONALD: “Cascade Chalice” “I love working with a theme; it’s limiting and liberating at the same moment.” As a silversmith, Rita’s goal is to draw people into the beauty of jewelry. When tackling this piece, she thought of mountains, rivers and forests. Stroll Location: Melvin’s Fir St. Market & Cork; Sponsor: Dyer Construction & Renovation, Inc. BILL MACDONALD: “The Black Pearl” This ukulele is built from the finest tone woods available. The top, sides and back are walnut. The neck is honduras mahogany. Bill MacDonald is a master luthier. He operates Kona Breeze Ukuleles. Stroll Location: Blazin Saddles; Sponsor: Action Air Heating & Cooling JAY MATHER: “On The Metolius River” Jay Mather is a Pulitzer Prize winning photographer whose roots are in folk music and photography. This photo reminds him of “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor - “Deep greens and blues are the colors I choose. Won’t you let me go down in my dream, and rockabye Sweet Baby James.” Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop
This wall sculpture expresses the “Deep Roots” of a juniper tree. Stroll Location: Alpaca By Design; Sponsor: Action Air Heating & Cooling MOONBEAM GLASSWORKS STUDIO: “Luna-aries” As owner of Moonbeam Glassworks Studio, Jenelle Kathan, continues to explore the transfer of light through fused glass panels. The panels are interchangeable through the seasons and illuminate the energy of life. Stroll Location: Abigail’s On Main; Sponsor: Central Bark SAGE DORSEY & JOHN MORTON: “Milkhouse Bench” The bench top is cut from windfall black walnut; the legs are from a recycled cast iron wash tub found in an old milkhouse. Veteran furniture maker, Sage Dorsey, teams up with potter and musician and SHS graduate, John Morton, for this reclaimed collaborative project. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Jen’s Garden JILL NEAL: “Dancing In The Moonlight” Artist Jill Haney-Neal is exuberant in exaggerating the female body with the use of shape, form and color. Her work expresses joy in life with a great sense of humor and body language. Stroll Location: Abigail’s On Main; Sponsor: Sisters Drug & Gift Co.
by Jay Mather
HADLEY MCCANN: “Essence” “The Metolius basin is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Walking those special places rejuvenates my spirit and grounds me,” says photographer Hadley McCann. After several years away, Hadley has come back to Sisters and to his old studio in the Sisters Art Works Building. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Eastlake Framing LLC DENNIS MCGREGOR: “2013 Sisters Folk Festival” Singer-songwriter and artist, McGregor has generously contributed this original painting that will be the poster image for Sisters Folk Festival 2014. Jamiee, an Americana Project student and a singer-songwriter in her own right, is giving guitar lessons to Eli, with the mountains and juniper trees in the background. Stroll Location: Metolius Property Sales; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades
CHRIS NELSON: “Savory Roots” Check out these exquisitely rendered root vegetables by artist and framer Chris Nelson. Chris loves still life painting, and she has a gift for it. Originally from Minnesota, she has worked and exhibited at Clearwater Gallery for the last 11 years. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery THOMAS OWCZARZAK: “Silver Necklace” Thomas Owczarzak and his wife, Lisa, are owners of the Jan David Design Jewelers at the Salishan Market Place on the Oregon Coast, selling custom and one of a kind pieces. They are rooted in the world of jewelry. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Trading Co.; Sponsor: Sisters Drug & Gift Co.
SANDY MELCHIORI: “Home” When artist and landscape designer Sandy Melchiori considered the theme “Deep Roots” she thought of Bassano del Grappo a small Italian town where her ancestors hail from. Stroll Location: Depot Cafe; Sponsor: Green Ridge Physical Therapy KENNETH G. MERRILL: “Ceramic Wall Piece” As the owner of Canyon Creek Pottery in Sisters, Ken has been working his craft for over 20 years. His gallery is full of wonderful ceramics in beautiful glazes.
by Karen Piedmont
My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 9
by Skip Armstrong
CAROLINE STRATTON: “Cascadia Roots” Caroline says: “This painting came from thinking what “Deep Roots” means for me and others who have chosen to live here in this special high desert ecosystem, which is part of the incredible cascadia bioregion. I wanted to portray the attachment or rootedness I feel here.” Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast
ROB RALPH: “Yellow Vertical Window Cabinet” Rob uses wood from sustainable local forests; recycled wooden windows, hinges and knobs; “milk” paints; and cabinet work by Metolius Woodworks. This yellow window cupboard would be a delight in any room. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: The Paper Place CRYSTAL REIFSCHNEIDER: “Sunflower Fields” As a Sisters High School student, Crystal considered the theme and realized that “music can penetrate one’s true self and bring out the best in someone.” The sunflowers represent her happiness that her family put down roots in Sisters. And Sisters is happy to have her! Stroll Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: South Valley Bank & Trust
COURTNEY PARKER-SAHLBERG: “Best Friends” Courtney is a past award winner for My Own Two Hands and is a long time generous contributor. Her work is deeply rooted in the history of the American West. Some of her pieces can currently be seen at Culver House In Sisters. Stroll Location: Sisters Coffee; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast AVALON PARSONS: “Cascade Backcountry” Avalon Parsons grew up on a homesteaded ranch in the Mojave Desert. Her use of the palette knife and a muted color field enhances her desert and mountain landscapes. Her work is currently shown at Inscapes Gallery in Newport. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Hair & Skin Renewal; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc. KAREN PIEDMONT: “Rodeo” This year’s theme provoked thoughts about people, traditions and events that are deeply embedded in our Central Oregon culture. Rodeo is one such event. Karen’s painting conveys the joy of the cowboy, the hot June afternoon, and the dust thrown up by the horse’s dance. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop LILLIAN PITT: “Shadow Spirit Feeling Secure” Lillian Pitt’s Native American name is Wak’amu, which means camas root, a stubborn plant that Lillian says matches her disposition. She has been an artist for 32 years, working in clay, bronze, glass, gold and silver. She is rooted to her community. Stroll Location: Navigator News; Sponsor: BendBroadband
DAN RICKARDS: “Covered Bridge” A long-time supporter of My Own Two Hands, Dan has seen the joy his children have found in Americana Project classes through music and visual arts. Deeply rooted in the community Dan and his family support the arts in many ways and we are grateful. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery RANDY ROOKER: “Roots in Rhythm Drum Table” This old drum had been beaten to death. It was tired and needed rest. Randy wanted to preserve it in a gentler setting, yet have it still be used on a daily basis. The stand “offers up” the drum, showing where both the drum and the rhythm came from. Stroll Location: Metolius Property Sales; Sponsor: VanHandel Automotive RANDY ROOKER: “Players’ Bench” Our roots in music go very deep, and to be sitting on ancient wood while playing helps keep that connection. Randy acquired a small stash of clear cedar - instrument quality wood. Inlaying guitar material into this wood seemed like a natural step to show the very best of the material. Stroll Location: Common Threads; Sponsor: The Gallery Restaurant
THE WAY WE ART: “The Root of What We Are Is Love” This is part of the series entitled “Love.” Tricia and Cindy started with dying the silk background, then added Thai silk and merino/silk roving to create this unique piece, which can be worn as a scarf or used as a wall hanging. Stroll Location: The Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: The Paper Place
by Crystal Reifschneider
SISTERS FOLK FESTIVAL INC.: “Sisters Folk Festival 2012 Signed Poster” One day, Jim Cornelius walked into Paulina Springs Books and had a conversation with Dick Sanvik which gave birth to the first Sisters Folk Festival. That was in 1995. Since then, SFF has been growing and flourishing. And there they are! Jim and Dick on this 2012 SFF signed poster by artist musician Dennis McGregor. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Advanced Systems Portable Restrooms, Inc.
TREESPIRIT INSTRUMENTS: “African Tongue Drum and Mallett” Woodcrafter and instrument builder, Jason Knoke, has made cigarbox guitars and various tongue drums for Bald Eagle Music Education Station in Sisters, which offers classes and lessons in theory, history, composition and performance. The theme for this tongue drum was “Treespirit Instruments.” Stroll Location: Common Threads; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast WENDY VERNON: “Oregon Roots” These are Oregon stones: Jasper, Agate and Chalcedony, arranged artfully in a necklace and earring set. Wendy is a jewelry maker and a psychotherapist, and she certainly feels the connection between where stones are found and how we came to be where we are: call it the geology of Oregon Roots. Stroll Location: FivePine Lodge; Sponsor: Shake, Log and Timber, LLC
AUTUMN SAUNDERS: “The Tree of Life” Autumn has taken advanced art classes at Sisters High School. She says: “Everyone has a memory connected to a tree or the moon.” The roots of this pendant incorporates both of those elements using copper and silver. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters
by Ra nd yR oo ker
MIKE PUTNAM: “Autumn Delight” Celebrated professional landscape photographer, Mike Putnam, has a remarkable gift for capturing astonishing moments in the Central Oregon Natural world. His fine art prints can be found in countless corporate and private collections around the country. Stroll Location: Three Creeks Brewing Company; Sponsor: Eastlake Framing LLC
10 | Sisters Magazine | My Own Two Hands 2013
EDIE SHELTON: “Sunny Days” These bright and happy fused glass sunflowers will light up someone’s home or kitchen. They are much too beautiful to put into the cupboard! Edie’s work in fused glass is currently shown at Black Butte Ranch and Clearwater Gallery. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades JAIMEE SIMUNDSON: “Citrine” Jaimee morphed the original design of a bronze amulet to a modern geometric and organic shape. A student of the Americana Project, Jamiee is both a musician and a visual artist. Citrine is a stone that brings happiness and positive energy to the one who wears it. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: The Fly Fisher’s Place
by Lynn Woodward
JAXSON STARK: “Guitar” Jaxson Stark plays the mandolin, and had been a part of the Americana project almost since its inception, beginning in middle school. He is a graduate of SHS and has honored his alma mater with the depiction of the Outlaw horse. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: The Gallery Restaurant
DAKOTA WAGNER: “Reflection “Deep Roots” Dakota says: “Trees and their roots symbolize a connection to all things; they connect to the ground which connects to a multitude of other things, including the family tree.” Beautiful thoughts from a talented Sisters High School artist. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades
JANE & BILL STEVENS: “Oh My Stars, 1 & 2 Felt” Jane and Bill Stevens are a jewelry making team. Jane creates the designs, does the bead work and the basic creation; Bill does the tech work such as wire warping and soldering. Jane has been making jewelry for 30 years. Stroll Location: Abigail’s On Main; Sponsor: Mission Linen Supply, Inc.
BARBARA A. WALTER: “Tumacacori National Historic Park” This church, in Southern Arizona, was established in the early 1800’s. Barbara fell in love with its colors and textures and found it a perfect subject for watercolor. She is a juried member of the watercolor society of Oregon. Stroll Location: Melvin’s Fir St. Market & Cork; Sponsor: VanHandel Automotive
CONRAD WEILER: “Mount Jefferson” Freelance writer and photographer, Conrad Weiler, couldn’t overlook how rooted we are to our local mountains. Here Mt. Jefferson looms forward in all its power and unites us. Stroll Location: Blazin Saddles; Sponsor: The Fly Fisher’s Place MARY JO WEISS: “Twisted Roots” Mary Jo has been making exquisite jewelry for over 30 years. She specializes in forging and fabrication, using precious metals and unusual stones. Here she chooses dendritic quartz, and uses intricate metal work resembling tree roots for an amazing
HALEY ZADOW: “Rest” Sisters High School art student Haley Zadow says: “The moon is a comforting calm god of the night.” She reached back into her memories of children’s books for inspiration for this wonderful contribution. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Kimberley Fisher, Independent Associate, LegalShield (SM).
contribution. Stroll Location: The Jewel; Sponsor: Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction JEFF WESTER: “WINE RACK & ASSORTED WINES” Jeff Wester may have the largest forge and ironworking shop in Oregon. That would be the Ponderosa Forge, in Sisters, where custom ironwork has been produced since 1991. Jeff is also enormously generous, offering up his fantastic forge for My Own Two Hands. In addition, he constructs iron wine racks that each year result in wild bidding at auction. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Hair & Skin Renewal; Sponsor: Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks
by Lillian Pitt
LYNN WOODWARD: “Music is Blood Memory” Local beloved photographer, Lynn Woodward, says: “Music is deeply ingrained in our family and cultural traditions, indeed in our biology. Some say “It’s in our blood.” Through the Americana Project, art and music develop the body and mind, integrate the self, and make a “whole person.” Stroll Location: Depot Cafe; Sponsor: Dyer Construction & Renovation, Inc.
KATHY DEGGENDORFER & SUSIE ZEITNER: “Ancient Ancestory” Last summer Susie attended a storytelling event at Suttle Lake Resort, hosted by the Warm Springs Indian tribe. She was so inspired she asked Kathy to do a collaboration dedicated to our Indian heritage in this area. The result is a brilliant joint effort of “fused glass, painting with light.” Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Coldwell Banker & Annie Andreson SUSIE ZEITNER: “Desert Glow” Susie formed ZGlass in ‘98, a successful fused glass company in Eugene with many national accounts. Each of Suzie’s light fixtures are one-of-a-kind, signed and dated. The colors in this beautiful chandelier reflect those indigenous to Central Oregon. Stroll Location: At Auction Only; Sponsor: Tate & Tate Catering
My Own Two Hands
2013AWARDS Theme Award: Erica Lowry Merit Awards: Glen Corbett Chris Nelson Danae Bennett-Miller
Americana Folk Award: Joanie Keast Student Achievement Award: Justine Bruguier
Spirit of Giving Award: Susie Zeitner
by Haley Zadow
by Rick Bartow
727 NE Greenwood Ave.
My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 11
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT:
‘Up close and personal’ Artist Glen Corbett sees and interprets the world through her art. By Sondra Holtzman for The Bulletin Special Projects
Photos by Christopher L. Ingersoll
Artist Glen Corbett’s roots run deep in her passion for the arts and education. A fifth-generation Oregonian, Corbett’s great-grandfather settled here before statehood. As a child, she remembers riding horses to the Black Butte school before leaving Central Oregon to pursue a higher education in Portland and the East Coast. A painter with formal training, Corbett created large tapestries when her children were young. When they left home, she returned to painting and etching, working primarily in oils, acrylics and watercolors. Four years ago, after taking a workshop from fellow local artist Jeanne Debons, Corbett was encouraged by her mentor to take a two-and-a-half year course given by the Society of Botanical Artists in London, England, where her original art pieces were critiqued and returned. Corbett’s art is highly influenced by her environment. “I worked as a lookout on Black Butte for 15 years,” said the artist. “My home in Camp Sherman has a perfect view of Black Butte, so I’ve done many a landscape in my time.” Corbett has been a generous art donor and volunteer for the past 11
years to My Own Two Hands and the Americana Project. My Own Two Hands began as a fundraiser in 2002 for the Sisters Americana Project, the educational outreach component of Sisters Folk Festival. Since that time, My Own Two Hands has focused on and celebrated how every person can change their communities for the better by using their individual talents and skills in a positive manner.
This year, in keeping with the organization’s theme of Deep Roots, the artist began thinking of a painting whose message conveyed something deeply rooted in Oregon history. “I chose the Oregon grape because it’s our state flower,” Corbett said. “It grows in literally every county. Rather than featuring the flower, I highlighted the grape itself and the leaves of the plant.” The painting, rendered in
watercolor and titled “Oregon Grape” is a botanical that took the artist more than 100 hours to complete. Corbett began work on the painting at the end of the summer of 2012 and completed it during the first week in March. “Each grape has between five and 10 coats of watercolor, giving the overall painting a luminous look and feel,” she said. “I love botanicals because they demand that you see. As a result, it has changed the way I look at the environment as I walk across a meadow. Landscapes present themselves at a distance, but with botanicals, you’re up close and personal.” Now in its 12th year, the festivities for My Own Two Hands will feature more than 100 pieces of artwork donated for both the silent and live auctions. “Glen’s pieces have always been an auction favorite, and this year’s donation is no exception,” said Katy Yoder, development director with Sisters Folk Festival. “We are so grateful for Glen’s generous heart and support for the Sisters Folk Festival’s arts and music programming.” “I’ve been painting and creating art for most of my life,” Corbett said. “My art has always been a way of seeing and interpreting the world around me, which is why I’ve so enjoyed botanicals. So as an artist, I’ll never have to retire.”
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& Mirrors
AMERICANA SONG & ARTS ACADEMY:
Song Academy welcomes VISUAL For the last decade, songwriters in search of honing their craft have flocked to the Americana Song Academy at Camp Caldera, just west of Sisters. Organized by Sisters Folk Festival Executive Director Brad Tisdel, and taught by professional singer/songwriters from across the country, “Song Camp” has positioned itself as the premier songwriting academy in the Northwest. This year, songwriting, lyric development, guitar technique and accompaniment will be combined with multimedia arts to create the Americana Song and Arts Academy, to be held Tuesday-Friday, Sept. 3-6, 2013. Professional songwriters the likes of Ryan Montbleau, Amy Speace and The Shook Twins will work alongside professional visual artists in creating a community-oriented series of workshops. “For a long time, I have wanted to look at creativity in a new way that isn’t necessarily centered around music or songwriting,” said Tisdel. The idea for this year’s art component has its beginnings in Sisters Folk Festival’s fundraising efforts and other community-supported programs. Events such as My Own Two Hands have helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Americana Project, the educational outreach arm of Sisters Folk Festival. “My Own Two Hands has been huge for us,” Tisdel said.
“It lead us to believe a new component that encompassed both music and art was needed for the academy. We are very excited about the multi-media component of the camp.” The arts aspect started as a master class for Americana Project students and has blossomed into an integrated program that celebrates both music and art. While aspiring singer/songwriters will maintain a strong presence in the three-and-a-half day camp, the music and arts combination draws from a larger pool of potential campers. “We are expanding our core base of campers to include people who are interested in exploring the origins of creativity,” said Tisdel. Filling the role of visual-arts director is Sisters artist, song-
ARTISTS
writer and author Dennis McGregor. McGregor has attended each of the previous years’ song academies, but may be best known to Sisters Folk Festival attendees as the creator of its colorful posters. “We chose Dennis to run the visual arts component because we wanted to do this at a high level,” Tisdel said. “He is a fantastic artist as well as songwriter. He walks in both worlds. He understands how to make this transition seamless.” Helping to instruct the campers on the ways of art are Portland ceramic artist Pat Horsley and Newport Native American artist Rick Bartow. Bartow has also donated a piece for the My Own Two Hands celebration. “Art and music both come from the same place: creativity,” said McGregor. “The inspirational vibe that lives at this camp serves all creative types. It benefits all musicians, songwriters and artists.” This inspirational camp is sure to blur the lines between music and art as it focuses on where they both begin; our creative and artistic imagination. For more information on the Americana Song and Arts Academy, Sisters Folk Festival or My Own Two Hands, visit www.sistersfolkfestival.org. “I am most excited to see the musicians I have known for 10 years walk into a visual arts class,” McGregor said. “I can’t wait to see what happens.”
Art Stroll April 12 and Art Auction April 13 These paintings on glass were created by Kathy Deggendorfer and Susie Zeitner for the 2013 My Own Two Hands Art Auction.
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Supporting the Arts My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 13
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT:
Old Western Antiques and Books in Sisters is a shop that allows you to step back in time by about 120 years. By Nate Pedersen for The Bulletin Special Projects “Where’s my gun, Len?” “Which one?” “That little .38, you know, the Derringer.” “Oh, that one. I sold it. I thought that’s what I was supposed to do.” “Ah, that was such a neat gun. I wanted it for my purse.” Such are the conversations you overhear if you spend a few minutes at Old Western Antiques and Books. Step inside Len Gratteri’s shop, and it’s like stepping back 120 years in time. The Old West is alive and breathing in Sisters, Oregon. Gratteri’s Old Western Antiques and Books has been a fixture of Main Avenue in Sisters for the past seven years. This March, however, Gratteri opened up the doors at his new location on Hood Avenue. A grand
Photo by Christopher L. Ingersoll
A Feeling of the
OLD WEST
opening, which may include playing poker with 19th century cards on an antique table, is in the works. I paid Gratteri a visit on the first day of business in the new shop. Antique stores are sometimes notorious for their clutter, but the first thing you notice about Gratteri’s shop is the cleanliness. Everything is in its right place — the old wanted posters in the drawer, the Smith & Wesson revolvers in the glass case, the Pony Express books by the window. “I always look at everything as being an investment,” said Gratteri. “When I was young, I tried the stock market and it bit me. I tried it two more times and it bit me two more times so I said, ‘All right, you’re out of my life.’ “I like antiques. The thing about antiques is you can buy and sell them for cash. You’re in more control there.” Twelve years ago, Gratteri retired from
the tire business in Hillsboro. He then built a new business around his long-term passion for collecting Old West antiques. He soon moved across the mountains to Sisters, a more fitting home for his interests. Gratteri is also an expert on the outlaw Ben Wheeler, who had a briefly successful life of crime on the Kansas frontier. Gratteri’s elaborate business card reads: Len Gratteri. Collector. Dealer. Historian. Specializing in Gambling and Saloon Items. Back Bar Bottles, Dice, Chips, and Cards.
As we walked around the shop together, Gratteri pointed out ivory poker chips, wellthumbed decks of playing cards, and a 19th century poker table complete with cigar burns. Gratteri selects his material by relying on that mysterious mix of pure instinct and a well-trained eye that mark a good antiques dealer. Gratteri describes it as a feeling.
“I hold the object and I look at it and it talks to me,” he said. “I think, ‘How does it feel?’ If it feels good or if it feels bad, then it probably is.” Some of my favorite items talked to me as well: a blue bottle embossed with the word POISON, wanted posters for an escaped convict, a well-worn rosary with a St. Anthony emblem. You could feel the history emanating from the objects. But be sure you have time to spare when you head into Len’s shop. I went in with a half-hour, then got caught up in the hunt, thumbing through old photographs of stern pioneers and postcards of lost places like Celilo Falls. I did not leave for 90 minutes. Old Western Antiques and Books will be showcasing the Western photography of Sarah Chrischilles during the Sisters Folk Festival and will also be an Art Stroll location during My Own Two Hands this year. The shop is located at 183 E. Hood Ave.
Fritter Fascination takes hold in Sisters
It’s slightly lumpy, the size of a dinner plate, has a rich golden color, glistens in the light with a sugary coating, and has a burst of healthiness (if you stretch the point). Is it a conundrum? A riddle? An enigma? It’s an apple fritter! The embodiment of comfort food, sappy and sentimental with a dash of nostalgia, the apple fritter is a staple in most bakeries. It may not cure the common cold, right the wrongs of the world or double your intelligence level, but it can elevate you to a blissful state of happiness with its warm, sweet, doughy, cinnamon appeal. 14 | Sisters Magazine | My Own Two Hands 2013
Melissa Ward, longtime owner of Sisters Bakery, admits she has shipped apple fritters to Spain and sent a box of them overnight express for an early morning meeting at a financial institution in New York City. She’s served thousands of her signature apple fritters to locals, visitors, families and a couple of ‘fritter connoisseurs’ who stopped in to rate her pastries. “They were a bit coy about their intent with the information, but in the end, they told me I had passed with flying colors. Whew!” Ward said. Sisters Bakery opens at 5 a.m. and often runs
out of apple fritters by 10 a.m., so locals know to come in early. “I have people calling me all the time saying, ‘It’s an emergency! Do you have any apple fritters left?’ Usually, they have company in town or they’re driving through from Bend and want some for the trip over the mountain,” Ward said. So, procure a table or ask for a bag to go, and eat slowly savoring each bite or devour it with gusto. Just come early. Fritter fascination in Sisters runs deep. — by Bunny Thompson, for The Bulletin
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Starry Nights! Fundraiser to celebrate $1 million milestone. by Gregg Morris, for The Bulletin Special Projects A solo acoustic performance by blues legend Keb’ Mo’ will mark the return of Sisters Schools Foundation’s premier fundraising event, the Starry Nights Benefit Concert Series, which has raised more than $1 million over 15 seasons. Keb’ Mo’, who last performed at Starry Nights in 2008, will perform at the Sisters High School on Saturday, May 18 at 7 p.m. Fresh off receiving his sixth Grammy Award and performing at the White House last year, Mo’ brings his distinctive blend of blues, folk and soul to Sisters. “We are so grateful for the musicians to take time out of their busy lives to donate their time for our community,” said Jeri Fouts, co-founder of Starry Nights. Organized by volunteers, the Starry Nights Benefit Concert Series debuted in 1997 and has seen some of the nation’s top musical talents grace the stage at Sisters High School. Musicians such as Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Lyle Lovett and others have donated their time for the sake of the students. Starry Nights also produced a benefit performance of the play “Love Letters,” starring Gregory Harrison and Linda Purl, at the Tower Theatre. Starry Nights was born as a reaction to educational budget cuts within the Sisters School District. Starry Nights has funded programs set for the chopping block including music, art, drama, science, math, technology, foreign language, outdoor school and physical education. The benefit series has also provided such key learning elements as state-ofthe-art interactive SMART Boards in all classrooms at all three schools. “The funding issues that effect all public schools continues,” said Fouts. The May performance will also be a celebration of Starry Nights passing the $1 million fundraising milestone. Fouts is both surprised and elated at the incredible support the event has gotten through its 15 years. “It is something that I could not have imagined early on,” she said. “We were
Keb’ Mo’
excited to raise $1,800 after the first one. We are lucky to have many of our costs covered through donations. As time went on, it became clear that we would be wellsupported by the community.” With more than 50 volunteers assisting the concerts and major sponsors helping cover costs, the Starry Nights series is truly a community affair. Its beneficiaries, Sisters High School students, will act as ushers, the tech crew and perform as the opening act. “The community’s commitment to Sisters Starry Nights is a representation of what it is like to live in a small community such as Sisters,” Fouts said. “Historically, we have been able to come together for the greater good.” Reserved tickets for the performance start at $35 and will be available at www. sistersstarrynights.org or at Clearwater Gallery in Sisters starting Monday, April 8. For more information, call 541-549-8521 ext. 4007.
Memorial Day Weekend event hosts hundreds of mountain bike enthusiasts
Sisters
Stampede special Ridge Trail Ale in honor of the Sisters Stampede. “[Palanuk’s] ability to tie it in with the Western theme that Sisters is known for makes the ride personal to our community,” said Greg Willlits, President of FivePine Lodge and Conference Center. “No other race starts with a rider on horseback shooting a 6-shooter in the air.” Pre-registration and a kick-off block party will be held on Saturday, May 25 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Blazin’ Saddles Bike Shop in Sisters. And though only four years off by John Cal, for The Bulletin Special Projects the ground, the Stampede is gaining a diverse and loyal following. A first-time During each Memorial Day weekend participant in 2012, Allan Nielsen, a cyclist over the last four years, the Sisters Stampede from Portland, takes any chance he can get has brought hundreds of cyclists and to cycle in Central Oregon. “I heard about the race though my thousands of visitors to Central Oregon. friend, Matt Westermeyer, and from my And each year, it continues to improve and friend, Jesse Drake, who lives in Sisters,” expand its impact on cyclists and the local said Nielsen. “What really attracted me to Sisters community. the event was not only the great terrain and “It was my vision for a long time to do a lot of single track, but also the smaller something like this,” said Joel Palanuk, venue and intimate appeal of Sisters doesn’t Stampede Founder and Race Director. “My feel overwhelming.” primary focus was to have the Stampede Pre- and post-race events with onsite be a quality mountain bike race . . . The food, drinks, and entertainment will be Stampede embodies everything I wanted prominent the day of the race. in a bike race.” Palanuk is welcoming some new This year’s Sisters Stampede will be held sponsors like Felt and BMX, as well as on Sunday, May 26, with prelimiary parties Subaru of Bend, each of which will be and events kicking off the day before. hosting demos and raffles. Pacific Source A Sisters resident for the last 5 years, Health Plans is sponsoring the kids race Palanuk was intitially inspired to host the this year, which hosts upwards of 200 9race in Sisters after improvements to the and-under participants. Central Oregon Peterson Ridge Trail System in 2008. Emergency Nurses Association will be “There’s so much beauty here that volunteering on-site and throughout the I really wanted to showcase that and get course to offer medical assistance. some exposure for Sisters,” he said. Space is limited to 500 riders. For more FivePine Lodge and Conference Center information on specific schedules and to hosts many riders who come to town for registration, visit: www.sistersstampede. the event. Three Creeks, located on the com. FivePine Campus, creates and releases a My Own Two Hands 2013 | Sisters Magazine | 15