SISTERS
A MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO SPECIAL EVENTS IN THE TOWN OF SISTERS
by Dennis McGregor
ARTS | CULTURE | EVENTS
SPRING 2014
Community Parade, Art Stroll, Art Auction and Entertainment Friday-Saturday, April 11-12
“From Where INSIDE:
I Stand” MY OWN TWO HANDS ARTIST PROFILES
Burned leather by Dyrk Godby
Endorsed by
ART STROLL LOCATIONS COMMUNITY PARADE ART AUCTION & PARTY Advertising Supplement to The Bulletin | Published March 28, 2014
ART STROLL, PARADE & COMMUNITY ARTS CELEBRATION: Friday, April 11 | ART AUCTION & PARTY: Saturday, April 12
My Own Two Hands
EVENTS
An annual fundraising event, My Own Two Hands brings artists and the community together for the benefit of arts education in Sisters schools.
“From Where I Stand” Community Parade Friday, April 11 • 4 p.m.
In its fifth year, this year’s Community Parade will detour to the area around City Hall and the School Administration Building. The parade will feature students, musicians and artists sharing their interpretations of the parade theme. Thanks to Kit Stafford and the teachers in the Sisters Elementary School for helping to create this procession, showcasing their passion for the arts. Due to road construction, this year’s students parade will assemble and begin at the corner of Cascade Ave and Locust St.
Art Stroll Friday, April 11 • 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Stroll Sisters for a special treat in April. The artwork donated for the My Own Two Hands art auction will be on display in stroll sponsoring businesses. Enjoy musical performances and refreshments, and please thank the Art Stroll locations and Artist Sponsors who make this one-of-a-kind art stroll possible.
Community Arts Celebration Friday, April 11 • 6:30 p.m. Join us at The Belfry for an evening of music and arts honoring our local musicians and student artists. Work created by Sisters students will be on display, and local musicians will share the stage with students performing throughout the evening. Tickets can be purchased at the door for dinner and music for $10, or $5 for students or music only.
Art Auction & Party Saturday, April 12 • Starts at 6 p.m. The My Own Two Hands Art Auction and Party is a fundraiser for programs of Sisters Folk Festival, Inc. Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks hosts this annual event which includes live and silent auction items from regional artists and students of the Sisters School District. Music provided by The Shanghai Woolies. Advance ticket purchase required. Call 541-549-4979.
Event Information www.sistersfolkfestival.org 541-549-4979
SI STERS AMERI CANA PRO J ECT
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From Where I Stand My Own Two Hands with
by Kari Mauser, The Bulletin Special Projects Every year in early Spring, Central Oregonians come together in a festive celebration of the arts at the My Own Two Hands fundraising event. Produced by Sisters Folk Festival, Inc., My Own Two Hands benefits the nonprofit’s educational outreach program, the Americana Project, raising money for art programming in the schools from preschool through high school. For the past 13 years, My Own Two Hands has brought the Sisters community together, connecting people through a celebration of the arts, from performing arts to visual arts to the written word. This year’s celebration kicks off Friday, April 11 at 3:30 p.m. with the Art Stroll. A wide range of artists, including art students and professionals alike, will have the art they’ve donated for auction displayed at local shops and galleries throughout downtown Sisters. The theme this year, “From Where I Stand,” was adopted from a CD box set of African American spiritual songs sitting on Tisdel’s shelf. “We decided to go with this theme because everybody can put their own artistic spin on their interpretation from where they stand,” Tisdel said. “That’s important because then each artist can create their best work and be truly inspired.” The small-town event draws artists from all around the region, as well as some from out of the area, including Native American artist Rick Bartow from Portland, and Alaskan artist Jenifer Cameron, according to Tisdel.
“Many of the artists create incredible work that is more literal in its interpretation of the theme, while some create pieces in their own medium that best demonstrates their unique talent and craftsmanship,” Tisdel explained. This year’s theme image is a piece by local cowboy and artist Dyrk Godby, inspired by his childhood fascination with the Old West. While walking around to see the art, strollers can also listen to local musicians playing at various locations, including Steve Neth at Blazin’ Saddles and Allan Byer at Cork Cellars among 17 others including student musicians.
The community parade, a perfect display of a small-town march, where local kids don fun and wacky costumes and show off the special art they’ve created in school, starts at 4 and will travel in front of City Hall and around the school administration building campus – a re-routing made necessary
by the current road construction project downtown. Another change to this year’s event is also a location change; the community performing arts evening will be held at The Belfry, at 302 E. Main Ave., Friday night from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
by Gary Miller
“This change is exciting because The Belfry is such a cool venue, and it’s downtown,” Tisdel said. “Also this year it’s going to be intermixed with both student and community musicians for a big final concert. This is important and effective in developing intergenerational friendships and a respectful understanding of the artists and the musicians in town, bringing everyone together as opposed to it just being the kids as it has in years past.” Saturday evening brings the My Own Two Hands art auction and party, at Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, at 207 W Sisters Park Dr., beginning at 6 p.m. There will be food and live music, with more than 100 donated art pieces up for bid — some by silent auction and others by live auction. For ticket information, contact katy@ sistersfolkfestival.org. The money raised by the My Own Two
Hands fundraiser is an important part of supporting the continuation of art in the schools. “Music and arts education helps young people to think critically and use their imagination and creativity for problemsolving,” Tisdel emphasized. “It builds self-confidence and awareness, and helps make sense of a complicated world, while providing a tangible way for them to express their experiences.” The weekend celebration also benefits the community, giving its members a real sense of connection and belonging while also fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the arts. For more information about My Own Two Hands, the Americana Project, or Sisters Folk Festival, visit www. sistersfolkfestival.org.
2014 My Own Two Hands Poster Artist:
Dyrk Godby
Dyrk Godby’s burned-leather artwork is an outstanding interpretation of this year’s theme, “From Where I Stand.” He approaches the subject from a variety of perspectives, including his own view of that time and place. Dyrk says, “I grew up in southern Idaho, close to the Snake River and the Oregon Trail. I was raised a cowboy and was fascinated by the Old West. I used to ride my horse along the old trails where you could still see the ruts from the wagon wheels. “The Oregon Trail used to cross the Snake River at Glenn’s Ferry and head north to Fort Boise. Over the last 25 years locals would reenact the crossing of the Snake River at Three Island State Park. Men and women would drive covered wagons along with outriders down the rather steep hill into the river and cross to the other side. They were followed by Indians on horseback from the Duck Valley Indian Reservation in full dress. It was quite a spectacle. “I spent some time on the two reservations in southern Idaho, Fort Hall and Duck Valley. We traded horses, rodeoed, boxed; and as kids we played real cowboys and Indians along those trails. “My ‘From Where I Stand’ leather piece is a look back at a scene that played out so many times when the Indian would see a group of settlers crossing their land on what became the most significant trail across the West. “There goes the neighborhood!”
by Mary Jo Weiss
Thank You to our Year-Round Sponsors!
1859 Oregon Magazine • Alpine Internet • Angeline’s Bakery & Cafe • Bank of the Cascades • Black Butte Ranch • Blazin’ Saddles Cycle N Style • Cascade A & E • Clearwater Gallery • FivePine Lodge and Conference Center • Grocery Outlet • Lange Winery • Lind/White Group - Merrill Lynch • Melvin’s Fir St. Market • Preston Thompson Guitars • Tate & Tate Catering • The Belfry • The Nugget Newspaper Acoustic Guitar • Advanced Systems Portable Restrooms, Inc. • Allen Reel - Attorney at Law • Bend Memorial Clinic • Best Western Ponderosa Lodge • Bi-Mart • C & C Nursery • Caldera • Captive Media Solutions • Cork Cellars • Dana Signs • Deering Banjo Company • EZ Camp RV Trailer Rental • FootZone of Bend • High Country Disposal • Home Instead Senior Care • InFocus Eye Care • Inovia Vein Specialty Center • Jelly Belly Candy Company • Leonardi Media Arts • Les Schwab Tire Centers • North Branch Building & Design • Paulina Springs Books • Pieceful Expressions • Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks • Ray’s Food Place • Shake Log & Timber LLC • Sisters Athletic Club • Sisters Coffee Company • Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop • Sisters Rental • Sisters Screen Printing • Sisters Vacation Rentals • Strassman & Hanna Wealth Management • Swan Percussion • Therapeutic Associates • X-Press Printing
My Own Two Hands 2014 | 3
Sisters Folk Festival’s
Americana Project
The Americana Project is an innovative music and arts education program with deep community outreach. Classes each day at both Sisters high and middle schools provide opportunities for self-expression in music and the visual arts. Students learn to play guitar, write songs, perform live, record and engineer their music, and, through the Community Luthier program, build custom guitars and ukuleles. Young people in Sisters also work with national, regional and local guest artists where they are mentored and great insight is shared on life as an artist, from the business to the art form. Through their exposure to
Community
Parade Friday, April 11, 4 p.m.
This year’s parade of art will be ‘detoured’ due to road construction in downtown Sisters. Students, artists, musicians and others will process in the area of City Hall and the Sisters School District administration building. Each of the students in grades K - 5 have created a parade-ready art project based on the theme, “From Where I Stand.” Come and witness their creativity, spirit and passion for their art!
guest artists, guitar- and ukulele-building, and participation in My Own Two Hands, young children expand their thinking to see the arts as a lens through which to view life. Select high school students have the opportunity to teach, mentor and intern in community radio and recording/engineering through a Sisters Folk Festival collaboration with a local radio station. Many alumni go on to find meaningful work in artistic endeavors as recording artists and engineers, performers, luthiers, graphic designers, and teachers. For over a decade, students have received scholarships as well as provided great service to our community.
Sisters High School • Scholarship awards for graduating students in visual and performing arts • Scholarships to Americana Song 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
Sisters Middle School • Audio engineering instruction/ production of Americana Project CD release • Annual gift to SHS art, choir and music departments • Administration and funding for Americana Community Luthier Program • Annual gift to SHS Guitarbuilding program and scholarships for students
• SMS Americana Project class teacher, visual-arts 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: Bank of the Cascades • Breedlove Guitars • Caldera • Chichester duPont Foundation • Cris Converse • Deschutes County Cultural Coalition • Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc. • Moonbeam Glassworks • Oregon Arts Commission • PGE Foundation • Oregon Community Foundation • The Roundhouse Foundation • Dick Sandvik & Diane Campbell • TJ Education Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation • Sisters Park and Recreation District • Sisters School Districrt • The Starview Foundation
A Thank-You to our Volunteers None of the great work of Sisters Folk Festival would happen without hours and hours and hours of volunteer support. My Own Two Hands volunteers work for weeks in preparation for the twoday event. They help us receive, process and store the artwork; deliver artwork to stroll locations; plan and facilitate the student artwork created for the parade, auction and student art show; organize parade participants; set up, clean and decorate Ponderosa Forge and Ironworks for the art auction; deliver and set up the art donations for the auction; serve as auction spotters, bar tenders and art
4 | Sisters Magazine
wrappers; clean up (again!) after the auction and help put everything away for next year. Volunteers sell tickets, answer phones, handle mailings, hunt and gather supplies, and in general they keep us sane. On behalf of the Sisters Folk Festival board of directors and staff, and all the students in our community who benefit from their experience in the Americana Project, a sincere and heartfelt thank-you to all of you who have given your time, talent and energy to make the 2014 My Own Two Hand event possible.
“FROM WHERE I STAND” COMMUNITY PARADE ROUTE & ART STROLL LOCATIONS: Friday, April 11
Art Stroll 2014 | Friday, April 11, 3:30-6:30 p.m. 1. Sisters Art Works Music by Americana Project Students 2. Metamorphosis Salon & Spa Music by Jeremiah Rush
204 W Adams Ave. 161 N Elm St.
10. The Jewel Music by Bill Valenti
221 W Cascade Ave.
11. Common Threads Music by Chris Patrick
161 E Cascade Ave.
18. Imagination Gallery Music by Appaloosa
222 W Hood Ave. 222 W Hood Ave.
3. Abigail’s on Main
192 E Main Ave. 302 E Main Ave.
12. Blazin’ Saddle Cycle N Style Music by Steve Neth
413 W Hood Ave.
4. The Belfry Music by JZ Band
19. Don Terra Artworks Music by Rusty Rayls & the Rounders
352 W Hood Ave.
5. Preston Thompson Guitars Music by Americana Project Students
352 E Main Ave.
13. Gary Cooley Gallery Music by David Roth
20. Cha for the Finest Gallery Music by Bruce Schweitzer
183 E Hood Ave.
6. Cork Cellars Music by Allan Byer
391 W Cascade Ave.
14. Clearwater Gallery 303 W Hood Ave. Music by Willie Carmichael & Chris Harris
21. Melvin’s Fir St. Market Music by Benji and Raman
273 W Hood Ave.
22. FivePine Lodge & Conf. Center
7. Stitchin’ Post Music by Dyrk Godby
311 W Cascade Ave.
15. Sisters Coffee Company Music by Americana Project Students
252 W Hood Ave.
8. Mackenzie Creek Mercantile
290 W Cascade Ave.
16. Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop Music by Rick Johnson 17. Paulina Springs Books Music by Mike Biggers and Jim Cornelius
252 W Hood Ave.
9. Depot Cafe 250 W Cascade Ave. Music by McGregor, Lombardi & Heithoff
23. Three Creeks Brewing
160 S Fir St. 1021 Desperado Tr. 721 Desperado Ct.
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ART AUCTION & PARTY: Saturday, April 12, 6 p.m. • Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, Sisters
A Big Thank-You to These Folks Special thanks to our community of artists who donate their time and talent year after year. Hats off to Kit Stafford, Pamela Burry, Tracy Curtis and Susan Johnson for their planning, creativity, sweat equity and dedication to this event. Our board members work tirelessly to guide the organization and make our events happen. Thanks to Jim Cornelius, Jack McGowan, Cris Converse, Debbie Newport, Sue Boettner, Jim Cunningham, Steve Mathews, Jeff Smith, Jay Mather, Kerry Bott and JoAn Mann for all they do. For making art intake and storage seamless, we thank SWEIT LLC., Stewart Weitzman and Steve McGehey; we are ever so grateful to Kathy Deggendorfer, Dennis Turmon Auctioneer Services, Jeff Wester, Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks, The Belfry, Three Creeks Brewing Co., Fullhart Insurance Agency, Ray’s Food Place, Sisters Rental, Mission Linen, and Sisters Schools and teachers. We are appreciative of the excellent work of our Framing Sponsors: Clearwater Gallery, Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop, and Eastlake Framing, LLC.
ENTERTAINMENT:
The Shanghai Woolies
Take an adventure with the Shanghai Woolies! The hot music of this award-winning, eight-piece ensemble brings the sounds and romance of Louis Armstrong, the mystery of Duke Ellington, the whimsy of Paul Whiteman, and the swing of Benny Goodman. Created by Pink Martini trumpeter Gavin Bondy in 1999, the Shanghai Woolies have played hundreds of shows around the Northwest bringing entertainment to the music! Trombonist Ben Medler, an original band member, directs the band behind the sassy vocals of Brooke Zimet.
727 NE Greenwood Ave.
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Kudos to Jeri Buckmann, Jan Gould, Pam Simundson, Rebecca Sokol, Chuck Newport and Sage and Lynne Dorsey for their skillful support; and to all the Community Celebration musicians, Americana students and community members who volunteered their time to help us put on this amazing event.
Sisters Folk Arts Circle Members of the Sisters Folk Arts Circle help tremendously with our efforts to provide year-long cultural arts and education opportunities. In addition to a tax-deductible donation, members support innovative programming, receive tickets to our events, are recognized as key contributors, and a few other valuable perks. Give Development Director Katy Yoder a call at 541-549-4979 to talk about how you can get involved. Annual memberships start at $1,500. There’s no better way to invest in the future of arts and culture in our region.
“From Where I Stand”
The following four pages feature a listing of generous artists who offered their time and talents for the benefit of education and the arts.
GARY ALBERTSON: “The Last Bit of Fall” Gary’s current work in photography is on a more intimate scale, yet maintains the wild, scenic beauty of the Metolius. Gary, referred to as “the Ansel Adams of the Metolius,” has been photographing this beautiful area for more than 30 years. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Drug & Gift Co. STEVE ALLELY: “Modoc Arrow” Steve is a living legend amongst flintknappers throughout North America and has specialized in the subject of Native American archery for over 25 years. He crafts his pieces with an artist’s eye and uses all natural materials; gathering them “with his own two hands,” in much the same way as the Native craftsmen of old. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Mercantile; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters TERI APPLEGARTH & DON PATHEAL: “Earth Mirror” Don and Teri, owners of Don Terra Artworks in Sisters, create unique folk art. They believe in recycling materials and not being wasteful. This mirror reflects where they stand on this issue in our world of overloaded landfills. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Jen’s Garden J. CHESTER ‘SKIP’ ARMSTRONG: “Y Otter Be Livin’ UR Dream” Skip’s playful otter reminds us that every day is important; don’t waste it, realize your unique vision. We all “otter be living our dreams.” The piece is carved in local juniper using Skip’s signature chain-saw technique. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Jen’s Garden KAY BAKER: “A Mighty Fortress” Kay finds endless places for inspiration at Smith Rock State Park. Season, light and time of day create infinite settings for the plein air artist. Kay’s paintings are in private and public collections throughout the U.S. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Action Air Heating & Cooling
CROW BLACK: “Ceramic” Crow Black is a long-time and generous contributor to My Own Two Hands. His gently curved ceramic bowl of contemporary and organic design will be lovely in your home. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Les Schwab Tire Centers CROW BLACK: “Wave” The “Wave” is hand-hammered anticlastic-formed bronze with a patina. The edges are polished and the piece is lacquered. This moveable sculpture can be set on its base of Maine curly maple in creative ways or can simply reside on your table or mantle. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Pony Express
by Paul Alan Bennett
MARLENE BALDOCK: “100% Natural Alpaca Blanket and Scarf by Pendleton” From where Marlene stands, alpaca fleece is one of the world’s finest, softest and warmest fibers used today in the production of luxurious apparel and products. This blanket and scarf were made by Pendleton Woolen Mills from Marlene’s Desert Song alpaca fleece. Stroll Location: Abigail’s On Main; Sponsor: Action Air Heating & Cooling
GORDON K. BAKER: “The Painted Hills of Oregon” “Who can look at the painted hills and not stand in awe. Painting is the poetry of sight.” Gordon Baker is a geologist, environmentalist and artist, combining those passions in his paintings to capture the essence of his subject. Stroll Location: Common Threads; Sponsor: Action Air Heating & Cooling
BOB BOUSQUET: “The Secret Beneath These Hands” Bob strives to create an object that is useful, pleasing to touch and to look at. He prefers simple designs with straight or gently curved lines that highlight the
JANIT BROCKWAY: “All Roads” Janit is a long-time contributor, artist advocate and her shop, Bedouin, is a work of art in itself. She loves the developing process of making art, forming an idea into a finished piece. Her collage is a unique and dynamic intersection of techniques. Stroll Location: Preston Thompson Guitars; Sponsor: The Paper Place JOANN BURGESS & SUSIE ZEITNER: “Deep Within the Moment” With great respect for each other’s artistic abilities, Susie & JoAnn chose to collaborate to create a scene “from the heart.” The underpainting is an original pastel by JoAnn Burgess with a layering of Susie Zeitner’s fused-glass art. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction JOANN BURGESS: “Gentle Ending to a Perfect Day” JoAnn has been doing pastel art for more than 10 years. Her work reflects a love of nature, focusing primarily on landscapes and plein air pastels. Sunsets are precious to JoAnn, and her painting reflects that passion. Stroll Location: Cork Cellars; Sponsor: Jen’s Garden by Dan Rickards
RICK BARTOW: “Red Raven Bundle” Rick Bartow, represented by the Froelick Gallery in Portland, has generously donated this stunning lithograph with gold leaf, edition #11/50. The work was printed at Rutgers University’s Brodsky Center for Innovative Editions. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop PAUL ALAN BENNETT: “Whychus Creek overflow” Paul’s inspiration for his artwork and interpretation of the theme came from one of his frequent walks along Whychus Creek. “Standing by a pool along Whychus Creek after a storm is always a time of reflection. The world is an ever-changing place, due in part to water and ice, fires, wind and man-made structures.” Paul’s original work is widely collected. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Annie Andreson Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty & Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop TRICIA BIESMANN & CINDY SUMMERFIELD: “The River From Where I Stand” Cindy and Tricia’s piece is inspired by a full moon, the sunrise and sunset on the mountains, the colors of a river. The hues of their hand-felted scarf embody all the beauty that surrounds us in Central Oregon. Stroll Location: Depot Café; Sponsor: Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction
by Gordon K. Baker
CROW BLACK: “Curly Bronze” Crow’s bracelet and earring set is hand-hammered anticlastic-formed bronze with patina, polished, then lacquered for ease of maintenance. The earrings have sterling ear wire. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks
a senior at Sisters High School. Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: The Gallery Restaurant
WENDY BIRNBAUM: “Chilean Fishing Boats” When the fishermen return home to this small fishing village on the coast of Chiloe Island, Chile, the beach comes alive with the color, character, and charm of their fishing boats. Wendy travels widely, always capturing the essence of a time and place in her photography. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc.
wood. His sculpture achieves all of those goals — and more. Bob has a little surprise hidden beneath the ‘hands’. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades PEG BRAND: “Living the Legacy of Lewis and Clark” Peg’s artistic background is in painting and printmaking. Her collage incorporates hand-drawn maps by Lewis and Clark’s cartographer as well as more current maps of our area. “From where I stand, we are privileged to enjoy the beauty of nature and to experience the land and skies that were boldly explored and mapped.” Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters HAILEY BRINK: “Western Cuff” Hailey combined leather, metal, stone settings and organic and geometric shapes in her stunning bracelet. More of her award-winning pieces are on display at the Sisters Public Library through March. Hailey is
JENIFER CAMERON: “Six Salmon” Jeanie Vogel owns a gallery in Skagway, Alaska and “winters” in Sisters. She generously donated this multi-media piece by Jenifer Cameron from her collection. The artwork is solid copper with accents of wire, beads and found objects. Stroll Location: Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast LAURA CAMPBELL: “When You Don’t Need Words” Laura Campbell never ceases to amaze and surprise us with her creations, and this year is no exception. This piece was inspired by a favorite children’s book, “Owl Moon,” about a boy and his dad taking a walk in the woods on a snowy morning. The work speaks to wisdom and innocence of life as seen through their eyes. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast
My Own Two Hands 2014 | 7
YVONNE CHELEW: “Afghan” Yvonne’s afghan is hand crafted with love and is a unique folk-art treasure. Her generous donation will warm someone’s home and heart. Stroll Location: Melvin’s Fir St. Market; Sponsor: Jim & Dana Cunningham GARY COOLEY: “Gardians of the Ghost Tree” Gary’s sculpted bronze pronghorn antelopes stand in front of a dead juniper known as a “Ghost Tree.” Gary works to make each piece as lifelike as possible. Correctness of anatomy and attention to the small details bring his work to life. Stroll Location: Gary Cooley Gallery; Sponsor: BendBroadband GLEN CORBETT: “Ponderosa Cones” Glen’s trained eye and meticulous attention to detail give us a very different view of the ponderosa pine that we see every day. Her paintings grace the homes of countless collectors, and her botanicals have created even greater enthusiasm for her work. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades
BROGIN CODY DYE: “Violet Night” Brogin, a trained ceramicist, has ventured out of that genre to create a piece influenced by childhood memory. Brogin, a senior, says, “With this piece of art I stand strong and tall. As I look into the night sky I know that there is always something ahead of me. Always something to look forward to.” Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: The Bulletin LAURENCE A. DYER: “Jewelry Box” Each of Laurence’s boxes, crafted from hand-selected woods, are destined to be handed down for generations. This box is made from Hawaiian kamani and mango and has clever swing drawers. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Construction Management Services, Inc. LAURENCE A. DYER: “Jewelry Box” Laurence is a long-time Sisters resident and donor to My Own Two Hands. He has been working in wood since high school, and his beautiful pieces have been auction favorites every year. This box is made of woods from Hawaiian old-growth koa and mango. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: BendBroadband KAREN Z. ELLIS: “Metolius” Karen’s work celebrates the beauty of the Metolius River and the surrounding areas. Karen lives in Camp Sherman and is an art director, illustrator and educator. Her work is exhibited throughout the Northwest and is in private collections internationally. Stroll Location: Three Creeks Brewing Co.; Sponsor: VanHandel Automotive
by Jim Horsley
MICHELLE DEADERICK: “The Trail” Crows are the keepers of stories. Michelle has been incorporating crows into her work for some time. In this piece the birds are rising up, making their own trail and seeking out new stories. Stroll Location: Imagination Gallery; Sponsor: BendBroadband MITCH DEADERICK: “Changing World” Mitch & Michelle Deaderick have been a pottery team in Central Oregon for over 30 years. The stones on Mitch’s graceful vase incorporate the spiral of ammonite, the oldest fossil on Earth. From where he stands, those pieces represent an ever-changing world. Stroll Location: Imagination Gallery; Sponsor: Bank of the Cascades DEPOT CAFÉ: “Dinner at the Depot” A tasty favorite returns to the auction. You and 11 lucky friends are in for a night of delicious food, fine wine and live entertainment. Pam and Chris Wavrin are your hosts and Brad Tisdel your troubadour for an evening to remember. Stroll Location: Depot Café; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters SAGE DORSEY: “Bridge Spike Bench” Sage loves taking random pieces of wood and combining them with recycled materials to create something beautiful and functional. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Shake, Log and Timber, LLC JANICE DRUIAN: “Standing in the Shade” “I pursue a visual life, surrounded by the vast horizons, tumultuous skies and soul-replenishing solitude of the remote west.” Janice’s piece beautifully illustrates 8 | Sisters Magazine
DYRK GODBY: “Change on the Horizon” Dyrk was raised a cowboy, riding the old trails where he could still see the ruts from wagon wheels. His leather piece is a look back at a scene that played out many times. A new world awaited them all. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Shake, Log and Timber, LLC
that magnificent solitude. Her work is widely collected and exhibited throughout the region. Stroll Location: Preston Thompson Guitars; Sponsor: BendBroadband
BERYL FOUST-HOVEY: “Finally Spring!” Beryl finds the beauty of landscape to be limitless, and she strives to capture the essence of a scene — not the literal. Her abstract/impressionistic paintings are inspired by nature’s palette. She hopes this work will bring color and joy into someone’s life. Stroll Location: Cha for the Finest Gallery; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast STEVEN FRANDSEN: “Sing to the Mountains” Steven’s arched harp provides music through functional art. It is based on an ancient Egyptian instrument, abundantly carved with symbols from the joyous songs of nature. “From where I stand, gazing at our beautiful by Bethany Gunnarson
BETHANY GUNNARSON: “Boxed” Bethany is the art teacher at Sisters High School and an accomplished jewelry-maker. Her necklace incorporates a unique keepsake box. “From Where I Stand represents my aesthetic, which is rough, rustic and a bit composed.” Stroll Location: Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: Dyer Construction & Renovation, Inc.
by Susan Luckey Higdon
mountains, I am constantly moved to sing and play my thanks daily for living among such splendor.” Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc. GABRIELLE FRANKE: “Lotus Jewelry Box” Gabrielle’s jewelry box stands gracefully to hold your jewelry and other treasures. Her piece is inspired by a family tradition of woodworking, an art passed down to Gabrielle from her grandfather and father. Stroll Location: FivePine Lodge & Conference Center; Sponsor: Jim & Dana Cunningham ELIZABETH GANJI: “From Where I Stand, First Light, Moonset” “When I begin my day with art, I am better equipped to put my all into what the day has in store.” This work was painted in a series of mornings, “en plein air,” as the sun was just touching the top of the trees, and the moon was setting. Elizabeth is represented by Clearwater Gallery in Sisters. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery
SYDNEY HARRISON: “Trees, Trees, Trees” Sydney has a passion for putting fabrics together in patterns that are pleasing and soothing. Standing or hiking in the forest gives Sydney great peace, which she passes on in her creations. Stroll Location: Common Threads; Sponsor: Green Ridge Physical Therapy JACK HARTMAN: “Sliver of Gold” Jack Hartman spends his time along ocean shores or his home in the high desert. He soaks in these diverse environments and receives inspiration for his paintings that reflect the beauty and calm around him. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Shake, Log and Timber, LLC BERTA HEISLER: “Green Maze Necklace Earring Set” Berta’s dichroic glass necklace and earrings were created in her studio, Zantana Designs, located near Smith Rock. Stroll Location: Common Threads; Sponsor: Cascade Vacation Rentals
CASEY GARDNER: “After a Hurricane Comes a Rainbow” “There is always a light in every storm.” Casey has found her niche as an artist in Sisters. Her paintings are displayed in several local businesses and her work has been on the cover of Art Central’s course catalog. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Salon and Spa; Sponsor: Blue Spruce Bed & Breakfast RITA GAROLIS-MACDONALD: “Snows of Kilimanjaro” One of Rita’s cherished places to “stand” is at the base of a snow-capped mountain. Her necklace is a jeweled expression of the poetry of the mountains: brilliant snow and shimmering glaciers winking velvet hues of the pearl moon in the blue still of night. Stroll Location: The Jewel; Sponsor: The Paper Place WINNIE GIVOT: “Fall Equinox” Winnie Givot’s work is in many collections, notably those of President Obama and Governor Kitzhaber. She captured this peaceful Fall Equinox, looking out under a juniper branch at the Sisters, clear below the dark clouds. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Gary Yoder, Principal Broker - Howell’s Realty Group DYRK GODBY: “Horse Herd (Ladies’ Western Belt)” Dyrk is an Idaho cowboy, Western artist, a singer/songwriter, and a most generous contributor to My Own Two Hands. His Ladies’ Western Belt is extraordinarily detailed, highlighting the beauty and grace of the horses he has immortalized. Stroll Location: Stitchin’ Post; Sponsor: Cascade Vacation Rentals
by Elizabeth Ganji
NORMA HOLMES: “August on the Metolius River” Painting is Norma’s passion, and Mother Nature is her muse. From where she is standing, on the bank of the Metolius River, she finds inspiration all around her. Norma is represented by Mockingbird Gallery in Bend. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Sisters Rental PATRICK HORSLEY: “Medium Square Plate” Patrick’s work is a stunning example of his architectural influence on a utilitarian form. Patrick has been a potter for four decades and his work is widely collected and publicized. He has shown his work nationwide and won several prestigious awards. Stroll Location: Sisters Coffee; Sponsor: Construction Management Services, Inc.
JIM HORSLEY: “Percheron Thunder Shower” Since relocating to Sisters two years ago, Jim has focused on personalized paintings of horses and people. Jim has immortalized Jason Goodman and his lead horse from the six-horse team, “Percheron Thunder,” in this work. Stroll Location: Depot Café; Sponsor: Eastlake Framing
Festival and other Sisters events. Dennis’ giclee of Buck is the image for the 2014 festival poster. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery DENNIS MCGREGOR: “Untitled” Dennis developed the “hand on the guitar brush” image as an identity for last year’s Americana Song & Arts Academy. Dennis has generously donated the original for auction. From where he stands, Sisters is a most “artful environment.” Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop
RICK JUDY: “Ponder the Season” Rick combines color, contrast and a story in each of his compositions. In the last week of fall, this scene appeared as he was on an evening walk just at sundown. Stroll Location: Blazin’ Saddles Cycle N Style; Sponsor: Cascade Vacation Rentals
THOMAS MEANS: “Time Bomb” Thomas has been a woodworker of one sort or another for most of his life. The “Time Bomb” combines his strange fascination with clocks, a love of various woods and his tendency to build useful items. Stroll Location: Melvin’s Fir St. Market; Sponsor: Pony Express
KAREN GRACE KASSY: “From Where I Stand I Can See the World in a Leaf” Karen is exploring her creative side through music, writing and art. Of her piece, Karen says, “From where I stand, I see the world in a leaf. I find nature endlessly beautiful, and it recharges me with its endless variety.” Stroll Location: Gary Cooley Gallery; Sponsor: Central Bark JENELLE KATHAN: “WaterWorld” A self-taught artist, Jenelle has found warm glass to be the most exciting and mysterious medium for her creativity. After framing and pouring the glass, this box spent between 75 and 100 hours in the kiln and was then hand-tooled and sanded. Stroll Location: Cha for the Finest Gallery; Sponsor: Central Bark HEDI KERSHAW: “Necklace and Earrings” Hedi’s jewelry is inspired by classic designs and natural elements. This necklace is made with 1-inch oval-cut and polished blue tiger eye beads with a sterling silver clasp. Blue tiger eye, from South Africa, has many healing properties including eliminating the blues and bringing optimism to the wearer. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Pony Express
by Greg Waddell
for over 20 years. Her work is widely collected and exhibited throughout the country. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Les Schwab Tire Centers KIM LUCKINI: “Is That My Hayfield?” Kim has captured the colors and texture of a beautiful evening over the Sisters. She sees this view on her daily drive. And apparently lots of others do as well, as Kim realized when she was asked multiple times, “Is that my hayfield?.” Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: The Paper Place
HEDI KERSHAW: “Necklace and Earrings” This skillfully crafted beaded necklace is made with rare orbicular ocean jasper from the Northwest coast of Madagascar. The beads and pendant are polished and the pendant is set in sterling silver. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Ray’s Food Place
BRANDI LOVEDAY: “Untitled” “This piece came together like it was meant to be, the wax melted into perfect people, the paint flowed onto the canvas after that! From where I stand, different people walk in different directions, although seemingly going to the same place.” Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Sisters Drug & Gift Co. SUSAN LUCKEY HIGDON: “Soft Pastel” Susan’s Sandhill Crane couple are interconnected with their environment, totally in sync and in the moment. Painting with pastels has been Susan’s creative outlet
JAY MATHER: “Reflections” Jay Mather, a Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, has a deep love and respect for the environment. Of this image from a Japanese garden pond, Jay says, “There is a fine line between land and water, reality and ephemeral truths. At that point, nothing is certain and is ever-changing.” Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty STEVE MATHEWS: “Salmon Chanted Evening” Most of Steve’s work tends to be a bit tongue-in-cheek . . . and this mermaid mirror follows that trend. You’re bound to look better standing in front of it! Steve is a strong advocate for the visual arts and works tirelessly in the schools helping young people explore and expand their creativity. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Salon and Spa; Sponsor: Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty
KIM KIMERLING: “Carved Book” Kim has been an artist and teacher for over 60 years. He works in clay, paint, printmaking and mixed media. He has shown in over 100 one-person shows worldwide. Stroll Location: Paulina Springs Books; Sponsor: Jim & Dana Cunningham AL KRAUSE: “Sunrise on Mormon Row” Al has spent the past seven years developing a part-time business fulfilling his lifelong love for photography. Al likes to print on canvas to convey the “feel” of a work of art. His work can been seen at Aspen Lakes Lodge, Suttle Lake and Jen’s Garden. Stroll Location: FivePine Lodge & Conference Center; Sponsor: Central Bark
NATALIE MARSHALL: “The Beauty of Mountains” Natalie, a high school junior, applies her love of nature and realism to her study of the Sisters mountains. “I tried to show just how beautiful the mountains are through my artwork. From where is stand, I see the mountains every day. Every time I see them, I’m amazed by their beauty.” Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop
by Mary Medrano
BILL MACDONALD: “The Black Pearl II Tenor” A Kona Breeze Ukulele is an offering of tonal excellence. Years of technical and skilled refinement went into this beautiful instrument with a Sitka spruce top, walnut sides and Honduras mahogany neck. Bill quips, “From where I stand, ukuleles are on a wave.” Stroll Location: Sisters Coffee; Sponsor: Annie Andreson Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty MARY MARQUISS: “Parable” “From where I stand, life is full of parables.” This is one of Mary’s pear series paintings done over a 20-year period. Mary’s original art and limited-edition prints can be found at The Tumalo Art Company in Bend. Stroll Location: Cork Cellars; Sponsor: Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks
MARY MEDRANO: “The Riddler” Mary Medrano typically utilizes her creative eye and painting skills to capture people’s beloved pets. Why a giraffe? You’ll have to ask her! Having this gentle giraffe’s perspective on the world might change everything. Stroll Location: Sisters Coffee; Sponsor: Dyer Construction & Renovation, Inc. SANDY MELCHIORI: “Orange Hana Cow” Sandy spotted Orange Hana Cow as she was driving the Hana Highway during a vacation in Maui. “I wanted her bright color to vibrate like her surroundings.” Sandy, an artist and landscape designer, is currently working on a cow series. Stroll Location: Metamorphosis Salon and Spa; Sponsor: Farmers Insurance of Sisters KENNETH MERRILL: “Large Copper Red Salad Bowl” Canyon Creek Pottery in Sisters is Ken’s working studio and gallery. Ken specializes in handmade dinnerware sets, lamps, sinks and functional pottery finished in beautiful glazes. Stroll Location: Blazin’ Saddles Cycle N Style; Sponsor: Dyer Construction & Renovation, Inc. GARY MILLER: “Magic Montague” Reflecting back on the October evening he took this photo, Gary says, “From where I stand on this beach in the Canadian Gulf Islands, a vision from my fondest dreams magically crystalized in front of my eyes. I know now, that I own the dream.” Stroll Location: Three Creeks Brewing Co.; Sponsor: Les Schwab Tire Centers
HADLEY MCCANN: “Metolius Fall” “From where I stand, the Metolius River is one of the most beautiful places in the world. There is beauty at every turn and ripple.” Hadley believes an image should capture a moment, a memory, a soul. He specializes in landscape and portrait photography, working from his studio in Sisters Art Works. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Eastlake Framing DENNIS MCGREGOR: “All the Town’s a Stage” Dennis captures the essence of Sisters and the annual folk festival in his giclee “All the Town’s a Stage.” This work was created as a background for the new Sisters Folk Festival website and is destined to become an iconic image for the organization. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery DENNIS MCGREGOR: “Blue Buck” The deer in our town have grown up with Sisters Folk Festival music, and on rare occasions have been seen participating. Dennis is widely celebrated for his whimsical and poignant images representing the
by Chris Nelson
My Own Two Hands 2014 | 9
by Caroline Stratton
JILL NEAL: “Red Boot Trio” Jill Haney-Neal says, “I love the music scene in Sisters — ‘from where I stand’ is as a listener, fan, and observer.” Her giclee captures that spirit with affection and humor. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty JILL NEAL: “Sojourners” Well known for her “Wild Women” collection, Jill exhibits her work extensively in galleries and at art festivals throughout the Northwest and is represented in many private and corporate collections. In this giclee, Jill captures the essence of the sojourners; travelers on a journey in time. Stroll Location: Sisters Gallery and Frame Shop; Sponsor: Sisters Gallery & Frame Shop CHRIS NELSON: “Standing On The Fence” Imagine how this little bluebird sees things from where it stands, “On the Fence.” Chris has combined oil and graphite to create this charming painting. An artist and framer, Chris works and exhibits at Clearwater Gallery in Sisters. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery COURTNEY PARKER: “Dotty” Courtney works in multiple mediums and has gone back to her pencil for this year’s auction donation. A past award-winner and generous contributor to My Own Two Hands, her focus and attention to fine detail is evident in the beautiful horses she depicts in her work. Stroll Location: Blazin’ Saddles Cycle N Style; Sponsor: Sisters Rental
DAYNE PATHEAL: “Elk Medicine” “Nature inspires me in every way. Elk roam very near to our home, and they are magnificent animals. My abstract nightscape captures the mystique of the elk.” Dayne Patheal is a self-taught craftsman and co-owner of Don Terra Artworks in Sisters. Stroll Location: Don Terra Art Works; Sponsor: Green Ridge Physical Therapy
trademark clear and penetrating eyes. Stroll Location: Cha for the Finest Gallery; Sponsor: Eastlake Framing
PRESTON THOMPSON GUITARS: “Size 2 Parlor Guitar” Preston Thompson Guitars produces instruments designed and crafted to pay tribute to the best American guitars from the 1930s. Recognized for outstanding quality and handcrafted in Sisters, Thompson Guitars have been the choice of serious amateurs and professional musicians since 1980. Stroll Location: Preston Thompson Guitars; Sponsor: Sisters Rental
JUDITH SPARKS: “Moth Depicting Evolution of the Earth” Judith Sparks, well-known to longtime Sisters residents, now has her studio in Eugene. Her work is informed by poetry, mythology and Buddhism, and inspired by all things earthly. This work was donated from the private collection of Pamela Claflin. Stroll Location: Three Creeks Brewing Co.; Sponsor: Eastlake Framing
ROB RALPH: “Vertical Pine Cabinet with Recycled Window” Rob used all recycled materials to make this delightful cabinet. Barn siding, used windows, hinges and knobs are topped off with a milk-paint finish in this custom piece of furniture. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty
TREVOR STANDEN: Guitar This is the first guitar Trevor has made, and from the start he intended to donate it back to raise funds for the Americana Project. The guitar has zebrawood back and sides. Through the long and arduous process of creating it, Trevor learned much about woodworking and even more about overcoming challenges. Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: The Bulletin
DAN RICKARDS: “Why So Serious” In his piece, Dan combines the power of a wild bison, the soft pastels of a summer day and a “light-hearted” title. Dan and his wife, Julia, own Clearwater Gallery in Sisters. They are longtime supporters of the Americana Project and deeply committed to the Sisters community. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery
KENNETH SCOTT: “Light’arted Steel” Ken Scott’s Imagination Gallery is a must-see in Sisters. Ken describes his art as “where the past meets the future.” His work includes lamps, wall art, garden art, gazebos and even chariots. Stroll Location: Imagination Gallery; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc. BRUCE SHINGLEDECKER: “Misty Morning” The work of the late Bruce Shingledecker is represented in Sisters by Cha for the Finest Gallery. Bruce portrayed Alaskan wildlife colorfully and imaginatively, and gave each animal a unique personality through his
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JANE & BILL STEVENS: “Monkeyshine” Jane and Bill have a whimsical take on this year’s theme. “From where I stand, I see much monkeyshine in the affairs of humanity, but I’ve come to love us ‘monkeys,’ and know that we do shine... sometimes.” Stroll Location: Abigail’s On Main; Sponsor: Construction Management Services, Inc. CAROLINE STRATTON: “Watching” “All beings have their own unique way of viewing the world, from where they stand.” Horses are the archetypal symbol of awareness, strength and gentleness, and Caroline’s passion for horses shines through in her artwork. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Mercantile; Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Rheuben, DMD ROSALIE VAN NESS-HANFORD: “Three Gold Fish” Fourth in a series of whimsical fish, Rosalie’s latest piece, “Three Gold Fish,” was inspired by her own aquarium which sat next to her while she recovered from knee replacement surgery. “It is truly what I saw from ‘Where I Stood’ during my recovery.” Stroll Location: The Jewel; Sponsor: Fullhart Insurance Agency, Inc. WENDY VERNON: “At the Beginning” Well known for her beautiful jewelry, Wendy created a necklace-and-earring set inspired by this year’s theme. “I stand, daily, and have for much of my life, making jewelry. The Tree of Life pendant represents that which has stood for thousands of years, deeply rooted and giving us sustenance.” Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Mercantile; Sponsor: Sisters Drug & Gift Co.
AUTUMN SAUNDERS: “Necklace” Autumn’s jewelry pieces are often abstract, inventive and incorporate multi-media. ”From where I stand made me think of standing in a river, looking downstream to my future.” Autumn is a senior at Sisters High School. Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: The Gallery Restaurant
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SISTERS HIGH SCHOOL WOODSHOP: “Adirondack Chairs” The Sisters High School woodshop has generously donated two beautifully finished Adirondack chairs for us again this year. A perfect way to enjoy the warm, summer evenings in Sisters. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: VanHandel Automotive
world is best served when our choices and actions are heart-’felt’. Stroll Location: Abigail’s On Main; Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Rheuben, DMD
by Lynn Woodward
JANE & BILL STEVENS: “Heart Felt” Jane and Bill Stevens are a jewelry-making team. Jane creates the designs, does the beadwork and basic creation; Bill does the tech work such as wire wrapping and soldering. From where they stand, the
WENDY VERNON: “Deep in the Forest” We are excited that Wendy has started painting again! She is working in encaustic, and digging, painting, torching, and scraping have become a tremendously satisfying part of her weekly art-making. In this work, Wendy embodies the theme in a tree standing deeply rooted in the soil, intrinsically part of the earth. Stroll Location: Mackenzie Creek Mercantile; Sponsor: Robinson & Owen Heavy Construction LISA VOELKER: “Sunset Wave” Lisa O. Voelker is an award-winning jewelry designer and owner of All Animal Jewelry.com. Lisa’s designs are inspired by all things natural. From where she stands in her studio on the central Oregon coast, the sunset waves are a daily reminder of nature’s wonders. Stroll Location: Gary Cooley Gallery; Sponsor: Green Ridge Physical Therapy
GREG WADDELL: “Black Butte Aspens” Greg Waddell, a freelance photographer living in Sisters, is on a continual quest to discover and capture light and its amazing interaction with our world. He focuses on landscape, street, event and travel photography. His work has been featured in B & W Magazine. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Gary Yoder, Principal Broker - Howell’s Realty Group
for the best art auction and party in Sisters, it’s also one of the largest ironworking shops in Oregon. Jeff Wester donates the Forge for our annual fundraiser and constructs a custom wine rack for the auction, which is accompanied by a huge selection of fabulous wines. Stroll Location: Cork Cellars; Sponsor: Ray’s Food Place LYNN WOODWARD: “Vaquero Whisper” The Vaquero tradition of horse training is about working with, not against, each other. Partnering with respect for where the other stands. In the spirit of partnership, Lynn thanks Colleen O’Connor and Mi Hija for their help in creating this image. Stroll Location: Depot Café; Sponsor: Ray’s Food Place
BARBARA WALTER: “Wine and Roses” “I am inspired by the world around me to capture a moment in time.” Barbara’s watercolor captures a special time and place from her travels. Stroll Location: Clearwater Gallery; Sponsor: Clearwater Gallery NINA WALZ: “Bow Platter” Nina is a first-time contributor to My Own Two Hands. Invite her festive earthenware platter would be a perfect addition to any gathering. Stroll Location: Melvin’s Fir St. Market; Sponsor: The Gallery Restaurant CONRAD WEILER: “A Walk in the Forest” Freelance writer and photographer Conrad Weiler was inspired by this stand of majestic ponderosa pines. The picture was taken on one of his walks in the forest, close to his home in Camp Sherman. Stroll Location: FivePine Lodge & Conference Center; Sponsor: Gary Yoder, Principal Broker - Howell’s Realty Group MARY JO WEISS: “Geologically Speaking” Mary Jo is renowned for her custom handcrafted, fine art jewelry. “To align with this year’s theme, I incorporated gemstones that came from the earth on which I stand. The Oregon sunstones come from Central/Eastern Oregon and the Oregon opal bullit dangle
by Sisters High School Woodshop
comes from opal butte in North/Central Oregon.” Stroll Location: The Jewel; Sponsor: Annie Andreson Coldwell Banker Reed Bros. Realty JEAN WELLS KEENAN: “First Return” Jean is an author, educator, designer and renowned textile artist. Her piece was created using the traditional Japanese “guyotaku” fish printing technique. Jean’s love for creating art quilts, combined with a personal connection to recent efforts to return native fish to Whychus Creek, spawned this amazing art quilt. Stroll Location: Sisters Art Works; Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Rheuben, DMD JEFF WESTER: “Wine Rack and Assorted Wines” Ponderosa Forge & Ironworks is not only the venue
HALEY ZADOW: “Leather Journal” Haley, a senior in high school, is very reflective when it comes to the art she designs. She creates pieces that are rich in meaning in all areas of art including jewelry, painting and book-making. Haley’s journal was made with handmade paper and is bound with twine hemp, with a burned image on the front. Haley is this year’s Student Achievement Award winner. Stroll Location: The Belfry; Sponsor: The Bulletin
My Own Two Hands
2014AWARDS Theme Award: Dyrk Godby Merit Awards: Winnie Givot, Jim Horsley, Mary Marquiss
Americana Folk Award: Mitch Deaderick
Student Achievement Award: Haley Zadow
Spirit of Giving Award: Susan Johnson
Ben Westlund Advocate for the Arts: Kit Stafford
SUSIE ZEITNER: “Blue Bird Morning” We welcome another astonishing piece by Susie Zeitner. For Susie, working in glass as an art form is vibrant and exciting. Her pieces are one-of-a-kind, signed and dated. “From where I stand I am always looking forward, and optimistic by nature. Hence the title of my piece — Blue Bird Morning.” Stroll Location: Depot Café; Sponsor: VanHandel Automotive by Jean Wells Keenan
My Own Two Hands 2014 | 11
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT:
A Mixed-Media ‘Masterpiece’
Sisters artists Susie Zeitner and JoAnn Burgess create a collaborative piece for this year’s My Own Two Hands by Sondra Holtzman, for The Bulletin Special Projects In what has become an annual Central Oregon tradition, dozens of artists donate stunning pieces of artwork to be auctioned off to raise money for the Americana Project, the outreach and educational arm of Sisters Folk Festival. Called My Own Two Hands, the event brings together multiple artists regardless of experience, background or the medium to support the future of the arts in Sisters. It’s at this event two years ago where artists Susie Zeitner and JoAnn Burgess first met. This year, the pair collaborated to create and donate one of the more stunning pieces set to be auctioned off at this year’s My Own Two Hands Art Auction and Party, to be held Saturday, April 12 at Ponderosa Forge and Ironworks in Sisters. “It was my first year living in Sisters full time,” said Burgess, a pastel artist, recalling her first time meeting Zeitner, who works in fused glass. “Susie and I made a good connection and met periodically over the following year. After last year’s auction, we started talking about how fun it would be to collaborate on a project for 2014.” The two artists originally planned to create a “sideby-side” piece of art that would feature Burgess’ pastel landscape and Zeitner’s fused glass. After careful consideration, they settled on an idea that brought the two pieces together. This decision was made just seven days before the artwork was due to be submittted. The finished piece was titled “Deep Within The Moment.” Working from a base of a piece of scrap metal, the two artists began by bringing in several representations of their individual works, moving them around to see what gravitated to the background of the metal. Then a friend who happened to be present in the studio suggested overlapping them to create a three-dimensional work of art. “My piece was a sunset over a mountain range,” said Burgess. “We tried layering it under a scene that Susie had created in glass of two birch trees in a meadow. Everyone was amazed. Next, we put the two pieces of art on the
12 | Sisters Magazine
JoAnn Burgess (left) and Susie Zeitner / Photos by Kevin Prieto
scrap metal, added some natural wood for an accent and there it was — a masterpiece.” Zeitner has always loved combining metal and glass in her art. Because her piece was transparent, placing it over Burgess’ painting created a three-dimensional perspective with the illusion of natural depth. Two artworks became one mixed-media collage combining pastel on paper with glass powders (frits) and stringers, culminating in a magical landscape of trees. After extending Burgess’ pastel painting a bit to accommodate the dimensions of Zeitner’s glass creation, the results were stunning. “I took the piece of rusted steel to Ponderosa Forge,” said Zeitner. “They put tabs on the back of the piece so it would hang like a picture. The glass is mounted to the rusted, salvaged steel with four bolts that are painted bronze.” The final result features a landscape of aspen trees that look like they are in the foreground of a meadow, with the broken pieces of juniper twigs with lichen moss added to enhance the effect. Aside from being thrilled with the results, the two artists have begun to explore new possibilities with this kind of collaboration, creating a new kind of art form by combining glass with pastel painting. “It’s a fabulous way to enhance the dimension of the final piece,” said Zeitner. “By bringing together a threedimensional piece with a painting, we have successfully created a literal depth-of-field and the illusion of distance.
Because the glass has actual depth, when you look into the piece, it gives you the impression that you’re right there in that meadow admiring the view.” “Deep Within The Moment” is currently on display at Sisters Art Works at 204 W Adams Ave. in Sisters. For Zeitner and Burgess, the true joy of creating artwork for My Own Two Hands is witnessing the good work that ensues within music and art programs at Sisters schools. “There’s something really exciting that comes from working closely with another artist,” said Zeitner. “The resulting art projects have been created out of the spirit of giving. We did this knowing it was for a good cause that is very special to us. “If the money we raise allows kids to have educational opportunities they could not have had any other way, our efforts are well worth it. And it makes the entire process so much more fun.” Aside from donating two pieces each for this year’s auction, both are busy producing work in their respective studios. Burgess has been painting in pastel for more than 15 years. She formerly worked as a business consultant before transition toward creating art full-time four years ago. Aside from her artistic pursuits in Sisters, Zeitner is well-known on a national scale for her lighting and architectural glass. Her company, Z Glass Act, was founded in Eugene in 1998.
STUDENT ARTIST SPOTLIGHT:
Living Life through by John Cal, for The Bulletin Every year, the Americana Project and My Own Two Hands chooses an art student for the project’s Student Achievement Award. The artwork by the selected student receives special recognition and is auctioned off at the My Own Two Hand’s annual fundraising auction. This year’s recipient, Haley Zadow, 17, was chosen not only for her astounding artistry, but also for her vibrant spirit and dedication to furthering art education in the community. While she normally works in paint and has a special fondness for acrylics, her awardwinning piece was a handmade, traditionally leather-bound journal with handmade paper and a wood-burned cluster of evergreens on it’s cover. “I was so happy and surprised when I won the award,” Haley said with visible modesty. “It was my first attempt at leatherwork.” “The theme for this year’s My Own Two Hands (MOTH) event is ‘From Where I Stand,’” said Kit Stafford, Sisters Middle School Americana Project director and the woman who broke the good news to Haley. “Her journal is the perfect representation of the theme,” Stafford said. “It has a stand of trees on the cover, and it’s entirely Haley’s point of view. She poured so much of herself into it, but also as a journal, whoever purchases it will be able to express themselves in it’s pages ... It’s an invitation
Art
to write one’s own beliefs, work; and that’s what it’s all about — self expression.” Drawing from nature as one of her primary inspirations, Haley loves to incorporate elements of what she sees around her. “I put ponderosa pines on the cover because they’re all over the place here ... There’s nature all around me, and it’s so pretty and special to me where I live,” she said. “It comes out a lot in my art.”
Haley Zadow / Photos by Kevin Prieto
But what also comes out in Haley’s art is her love for her community. “Haley has been donating pieces to this art show for years,” said Bethany Gunnarson, art teacher at Sisters High School. “Each year, I give the students some class time to try the MOTH theme as a class project, and Haley has been so gracious to donate year after year.” Though this is her first leather piece, Haley has been working with Gunnarson for years across myriad mediums. “She’s been in three or more of my advanced art classes and taken my jewelrymaking class as well,” Gunnarson said. “She has a broad range of understanding in different mediums and takes her pieces beyond her school assignments ... She worked on her journal extensively outside of class on her own time to make sure it was well done. She is really proactive and learned how to wood-burn specifically for this piece.” “She’s thought it all the way through,” continued Stafford. “That’s what’s so amazing to me as an artist — that she has a vision for the end piece. She knows what she wants and goes after it, but still has a gentleness about her. She has a sparkle — a light. She enters the process of making art. That’s where she lives.”
Sisters
COMMUNITY RADIO Photo by Kevin Prieto
by Gregg Morris, for The Bulletin KZSO LP-FM community radio in Sisters has has taken the long road to its current place as the local source for news, events and music. Currently residing inside Sisters Art Works in downtown Sisters, and 94.9 on the FM dial, KZSO has grown since its first broadcast at Sisters High School in August of 2005. KZSO’s first inception came in 2000, when the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) opened up lowpowertransmissionsfor“noncommercial educational broadcasting.” At the time, Sisters residents Mike and Jan Gould believed community radio would be perfect for Sisters. Because the low-power stations operate at 100 watts or less, KZSO’s range extends to Black Butte, Indian Ford Meadow down to Camp Polk, and north/south past Dry Canyon and Gist Road. Changes in leadership and incarnations, as well as losing their original spot on the radio dial, brought KZSO to a standstill until 2012. With some prompting by the Goulds, a core group of Sisters residents including Michael Richards, Jack McGowan, Jim Upshaw and Brad Tisdel, came together to revive the station and lead it to its current mission of “Honest Community Radio by and for Those Living, Working and Playing in Central Oregon.” “There are many reasons why community radio is important to Sisters,” said Richards, the current general manager. “First, we provide responsive emergency support for events such as fire conditions. Second, we provide community access through locally generated content. We also plan
to provide access to city functions and events like the rodeo and quilt show.” KZSO, which restarted with grants and no federal money, runs on approximately $50,000 per year and a staff of four part-time volunteers. Richards hopes to enlist more help to grow the station. In keeping with the anti-commercial tradition of low-power radio stations, KZSO is trying to stay away from having a standard format, such as pop or country. Another important aspect of KZSO lies in its partnership with the Sistersarea schools. The station is working with Sisters High School students in all facets of radio, including on-air personality, promotion and production of shows. In addition to the technical and journalistic side of radio, they will also work with Americana Project students wishing to pursue their dreams of creating music and getting it heard. “We are excited to work with the elementary school’s ‘Early Readers’ program,” said Richards. “Secondgraders will record themselves reading the books that the first-graders are supposed to read. Their parents get to hear their kids on air and the younger kids get to hear how the books are read.” KZSO hopes to keep growing and begin Internet streaming and podcasting by this fall. In an effort to keep the community involved, they are asking for additional programming ideas. Underwriting and sponsorship opportunities will also be available to local businesses and organizations. More information can be found by tuning in to 94.9 LP-FM, contacting Richards at 510-301-1351, or emailing sistersradio@gmail.com. My Own Two Hands 2014 | 13
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Preston Thompson Guitars
The RIGHT PICK
by Jeff McDonald, for The Bulletin Special Projects
Guitars are the lifeblood of Preston Thompson, making the master luthier a perfect fit for music-loving Sisters. Evidence of the small town’s appreciation for Thompson’s craft came in January, when roughly 350 people showed up for the grand opening of Preston Thompson Guitars next door to the newly refurbished Belfry – more than 15 percent of the town’s population. “The opportunity became available,” Thompson said. “With the music that The Belfry is bringing in, we thought it would be a good location.” Thompson had walked away from the business side of guitar-making in 1989 after a decade of success selling hand-crafted
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vintage guitars to the likes of bluegrass legends Charles Sawtelle and Peter Rowan. He took a two-decade hiatus from commercial guitar-making, launching a successful marketing career at Sunriver Resort and Black Butte Ranch. “I did miss it,” he said. “But I had an opportunity, starting in the sales department at Sunriver, to use all the skills I had gained from running my own (guitar-making) business. We had so many needs in terms of developing the golf course. There were a lot of outlets for my creativity. I enjoyed it and learned a lot.” He continued to dabble in guitarmaking as a hobby until 2009. Despite the national recession, demand stayed strong from wealthier buyers for vintage guitars made between 1929 and 1939. The period,
considered the Golden Era of acoustical guitar-making, had created the best in craftsmanship, design and materials, he said. “A lot of professional musicians were playing my instruments (made in the 1980s),” he said. “Other people wanted them. If that had not existed, it would have been very difficult to get back into this business.” He started slow, setting up a 400-squarefoot workshop at his home in Bend. Then, along came a couple of business partners – Dan Stewart and David Blakeslee – both from Sisters. The 2,000-square-foot space, located in an annex that resembles an old cowboy jail from the outside, was used for Sunday school when The Belfry was still a church. Two other guitar-makers were added for quality control and to increase production. Gareth Jenkins, a cabinet-maker and carpenter who does a weekly bluegrass show on Portland radio station KBOO, and J. Ramey, who worked for Breedlove Guitars in Bend for several years, Thompson said. “You always make the best instruments when you have people working with you,” he said. “It’s been a fantastic fit for both of them.” Thompson has just completed six instruments using select Brazilian rosewood found a few years ago on a ship that wrecked in the Atlantic Ocean in the 1930s. The ship had been destined for a fragrance factory in The Netherlands. The company acquired enough of the rosewood to make 60 guitars, which have a
Photo by Kevin Prieto
retail value of between $3,500 and $15,000 each, Stewart said. The wood, which has a mix of orangebrown, reddish-brown and black colorings, is stronger than most contemporary woods and takes more time to finish and build. “That’s the prized wood,” he said. “It creates the best sound, and what Preston does with it makes it so special. He gets it right.” Ten rosewood guitars are in the works at the shop, including a dreadnought model for Tim May, a nationally recognized bluegrass virtuoso, Stewart said. May is expected to play an opening set for Rowan when he visits The Belfry in April. Both will use guitars hand-crafted by Thompson. “It’s as good as it gets to get somebody that well-known to be out there pitching you,” Stewart said. Once the shop gets up and running, Thompson would like to do more community events, including apprenticeship programs with Sisters High School, he said. The school’s Americana Community Luthier Program is one of only two in the country, he said. In the meantime, Thompson and his crew will continue meeting folks who come in search of the prized wood – and working with the master craftsman. “It’s really interesting,” Thompson said. “This has been a little hub of activity. It’s been fun to watch.” For more information about Preston Thompson Guitars, visit www.pktguitars. com.
Memorial Day Weekend event hosts hundreds of mountain bike enthusiasts
SistersStampede
by Jeff McDonald, for The Bulletin Special Projects
Since 2010, the Sisters Stampede has brought hundreds of cyclists and thousands of visitors to Central Oregon over Memorial Day Weekend. And each year, it continues to improve and expand its impact on cyclists and the local Sisters community.
“It’s a lot of work, but it’s incredibly satisfying to see this tiny, little town filled with bikes,” said Joel Palanuk, Stampede founder and race director. “My primary focus is to have a safe, fun and quality event for everybody. The Stampede embodies everything I want in a bike race.” A Sisters resident for the last six years, Palanuk was initially inspired to host the race in Sisters after improvements to the Peterson Ridge Trail System in 2008. “There’s so much beauty here that I really wanted to showcase that and get some exposure for Sisters,” he said. The race has become one of the largest mountain bike races in Oregon, drawing more than 500 racers and hundreds of kids and families. Palanuk surveyed multiple businesses and found the race weekend brought an estimated $870,000 into the Sisters community. Roughly 60 percent of the riders are from the Portland metro area, 20 percent are from Central Oregon and many are from out of state, including Seattle. Some riders have come from as far as Switzerland, Palanuk said. Many stay at the FivePine Lodge and Conference Center, which is located near the festivities. Three Creeks Brewing, also located on the FivePine Campus, creates and releases a 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 six-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. Roughly 60 volunteers make the race and all the surrounding events happen, Palanuk said. Most are from Sisters and the Central Oregon region. Food, drinks, and entertainment will be prominent on race day – starting at about 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 26. Kids 9-and-under race free after the Stampede at about 2 p.m. Each kid participating gets a free pint of Eberhard’s Dairy chocolate milk. Once the race begins, there is plenty of climbing and other challenges, but also lots of rewards for the beginner, intermediate and advanced riders, said Alex McClaran, a former professional bike-racer who has been the emcee of the event since its inception. “From a racer’s standpoint, you are well rewarded for the effort you put in with fun and flowing single-track downhill,” McClaran said. “It’s a super fun and challenging course.” The race is an Oregon Bike Racing Association-sanctioned event. The Stampede was selected to be the state’s crosscountry mountain bike state championships in 2014 and 2015, he said. Palanuk is welcoming HealthSource Chiropractic along with returning sponsors Felt, BMC and Subaru of Bend, each of which will be hosting demos and raffles. Eberhard’s and another sponsor will host the kid’s race this year, which will have upwards of 200 nine-and-under participants. Central Oregon Emergency Nurses Association will be volunteering onsite and throughout the course to offer medical assistance. Space is limited to 500 riders. For more information on specific schedules and to register, visit: www.sistersstampede. com.
Sisters’ Cascade Avenue: Big Rigs ’n Streetscapes Sisters is a unique destination that visitors have flocked to for many years. Oregon Hwy 20 runs through the center of town, known locally as Cascade Avenue, and with the recent reconstruction project underway, Sisters will soon be an even better place to live, work and play. Beginning Monday, March 3, a three-block section of Cascade Avenue from Larch Street to Elm Street was closed to traffic to begin the reconstruction of Cascade Avenue and the implementation of a downtown streetscape plan that includes additional pedestrian amenities, benches, new light posts and much more. This project has been in the works for quite some time, beginning with the City of Sisters Transportation System Plan adoption in 2010. The Cascade Avenue Reconstruction Project has proven to be a memorable event — one where local businesses, city government and the Oregon Department of Transportation have worked jointly to develop
Photo by Kevin Prieto
and implement a plan that would minimize the impacts on local businesses, traffic, and visitors — and Sisters hopes to serve as a success story for other communities to emulate. The project was kicked off with a groundbreaking
ceremony and celebration. Kids big and small were allowed to climb on and explore the big rigs that are being used throughout the project. The excitement generated from that event has spilled over through the rest of the construction. We dig big rigs in Sisters! There is still plenty to do and see when you come to Sisters. It’s easy to get to and through town. Recently, people from all over Central Oregon have been coming to Sisters to eat at the local restaurants and shop at the unique, owneroperated shops, while watching the big rigs work to build the new highway through downtown. And, of course, when the project is complete (the highway will be open to vehicle traffic on Thursday, May 15) it will be a great time to visit Sisters and see all of the enhancements to make the community an even better place. —Erin Borla, Executive Director, Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce My Own Two Hands 2014 | 15