How much fun it is to gather with like-minded artists and enjoy a new community! Spring was bursting at the seams here in Grants Pass, the host community for this year’s events. Trees in bloom, the river full, and blue skies! Co-chair Tracy Fredrickson and I couldn’t have asked for more. Renewing friendships and making new ones is a hallmark of WSO’s semi-annual get-togethers. Everywhere you looked, good conversations were in progress — over meals, between breakouts, and just hanging out at our venues.
Friday’s Artist’s Reception was held at the Grants Pass Museum of Art, a truly stunning venue for our artists’ work. A historic building in the center of our thriving downtown, it hosts a continual exchange of art exhibitions, films, music, poetry, and more, all under the direction of Hyla Lipson. The show looked wonderful, and we had more than 500 visitors come take in the art while sampling tasty appetizers and beverages. The director was thrilled to report that an additional 72 visitors viewed the show on Saturday. The community’s response has been quite positive and welcoming. To date, three paintings have sold! The show will hang through May 23, 2025.
The Josephine County Fairgrounds, a working fairground that hosts many local and regional events, was our venue Saturday and Sunday. Our breakout sessions included instruction from a balance of local artists and of course our well-known WSO professionals. Juror Jean Pederson’s critiques were popular; she is a generous teacher, sharing her knowledge about how we can improve our work.
Jean announced the awards at our Awards Banquet Saturday evening, describing the merits of each piece. Everyone enjoyed the live presentation of awards; there was palpable anticipation and excitement in the room! The museum volunteered to open Sunday following the Business Meeting and Juror Demo so that artists could revisit the show in a quieter environment and see the awards displayed.
Although Grants Pass is quite a drive for some of you, Tracy and I are so glad you made the journey. We hope to see you again soon.