Was it only five years ago that Sunriver resident and artist, Midge Thomas, thought that it would be an excellent idea to bring together an eclectic group of Central Oregon artists to sell their work amidst the beautiful backdrop of Sunriver?

Well, as they say, “Time flies when you are having fun!” and Happy Fifth Birthday to the Sunriver Artists’ Gallery.  Thomas’ vision of a fine arts gallery administrated by the artists themselves has been a huge success by all measures.   As if longevity and sales success are not enough, then just check out the customer ratings.  There are a total of 30 local Central Oregon artists represented in the gallery.

The entire month of June will be a CELEBRATION OF ART  with a special event on Saturday June 11 (4-7pm) when the regularly scheduled Second Saturday’s fun, food, and drink is elevated with the addition of live music by local Bend Singer/Songwriter Tara Snow.  Come that evening to enter our free art raffle.

The celebration is highlighted all during June with scheduled artist demonstrations.  Although casual in form, each presentation is designed to share specific artist’s work, technique and background.

Each Saturday in June, fine arts and crafts people will be demonstrating oil painting, watercolor, sculpting, weaving, fine jewelry history and intriguing glass process. These demos and talks will both inspire and inform.

The “vibe” of the Gallery has garnered repeat business. The secret of the Membership style Gallery is “many hands make light work.” In addition to being talented artists, the artists work hard helping with all aspects of keeping the Gallery functioning, vibrant, friendly and ever changing.

Saturday June 18

1pm              Mary Wonser and the art of Hand Looming

4pm             Dori Kite: The secrets of slab built pottery

Saturday June 25     

1pm              Bill Hamilton will demonstrate the layout of a painted landscape.

4pm              Bonnie Junell ..the design and evolution of her popular poppy paintings.

When you stop by the gallery whether for just a visit to purchase that special piece of art or to gain a better understanding of art techniques and history, you can’t help but enjoy the atmosphere that comes from Midge’s original vision of great local artists working together in a great location.

Artists’ Gallery Sunriver
57100 Beaver Dr., 541-593-2127 or 541-593-8274, www.artistsgallerysunriver.com