The arts thrive in Sisters

Sisters has become one of the premier arts communities in Oregon in recent years. It is home to nationally recognized artists, a variety of fine galleries, a thriving arts program in the schools and a roster of events that celebrate everything from quilting to sculpture.

Sisters is a great place to be if youíre an artist ó or someone who appreciates art.

The spectacular natural surroundings inspire creativity and the community proudly nurtures its artists and their work.

ìItís unique,î says potter Ken Merrill, who owns and operates Canyon Creek Pottery of the Sisters arts scene. ìItís young and growing a little bit. It seems like a large group of artists are all trying to support it and help it grow. Weíve got a lot of talented people here. Thereís good quality here.î

Many arts events bring local and regional artists together. Sisters Art in the Park on Saturday and Sunday, June 11-12 kicks off the summer arts season at Creekside City Park.

Julia Rickards operates Clearwater Gallery, which features local and regional artists, including nationally renowned wildlife artist Dan Rickards.

ìSisters is so much more than a trendy art town,î Rickards says. ìOur community commits itself to the growth and foundation of art throughout our community by supporting events such as the Starry Nights concerts or the Coffee House art auction, and, too, downtown art strolls and weekend affairs such as My Own Two Hands.Ý

ìArt is our inspiration because it is both in the people and all of our surroundings: Our spectacular landscapes, and breathtaking mountain views, this is our home town,Ýa comfortable place for the arts to thrive.î

Kathy Deggendorfer has dual roles in the arts community. A talented painter, she is also an arts advocate, promoting the arts through her Roundhouse Foundation and sitting on the board of directors of the Oregon Cultural Trust.

She sees a supportive community as a key to the thriving arts scene in Sisters.

ìNot only do we have an amazing number of talented people, but people who live here respect and honor those artists,î she says. ìPeople are inspired to do their very best work ó and to show it off.î

Deggendorfer was a founder of My Own Two Hands, a two-day art celebration and auction each April that raises tens of thousands of dollars for arts and music programs in Sisters schools.

For information on that event, visit www.sistersfolkfestival.org.