One of Central Oregon’s highly regarded summer traditions returns for its ninth year and welcomes a more diverse group of artists than ever before. The Art in the High Desert (AHD) is currently ranked as one of the top 25 art shows in the nation by Art Fair Sourcebook. Bend’s Old Mill District becomes filled with nationally acclaimed, professional artists each August who have the opportunity to not only sell their artwork, but to speak with the public about the work they create.
“We are interested in who each artist is,” explains AHD Founder Dave Fox. “We want to know their inspirations and why they do what they do. Conversation is so valuable and having the opportunity for the public to interact with the artists is a great way for everyone to learn and grow.”
The overall goal of AHD has been closely related to reducing this barrier between the public and presenting artists and creating an intimate show space for all.
This year, there are plenty of new and exciting features at AHD including 58 entirely new artists that have not presented in the past. There will be discussion opportunities led by Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Katrina Sarson, as well as opportunities to win, buy and give Art Bucks, which can be used to purchase artwork from any of the 110 artists showing their work. “People get very involved in the presentations and love being able to ask artists questions,” says Fox. “Creative work is essential to quality living. Being able to hear about an artist’s creative integrity and their unique solutions to situations is something you can’t find at many curated art shows.”
As in the past, AHD offers artists who specialize in avariety of art categories including 2-D mixed media, metal work, painting, 3-D mixed media, photography, sculpture, ceramics, print making, digital art, drawing, wearables, glass, wood and jewelry. Truly there is something for everyone at the event.
Art in the High Desert wouldn’t be possible without the countless volunteers who give their time before, during and after the event, as well as the jury who selects the artists showing this year. “It is a very special thing,” Fox explains. “The jury not only sorts through hundreds of applications, but the process is entirely blind and therefore unbiased. The artists who apply have the opportunity to get constructive feedback, which is unlike any other art show they may apply for. We are so grateful for the jury’s hard work.”
Art in the High Desert will be buzzing with artists who show original thought and intent, go beyond the norm and consistency of style and who are not only experts in their craft, but push themselves beyond the usual or expected.
Those interested in volunteering for AHD can visit www.artinthehighdesert.com for more information