(Update: Adding comments from visitor, co-chairs)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Artists and art lovers from far and wide, converged at Bend’s Riverbend Park for the last day of this year’s Art in the High Desert. On Bend’s westside, more than 100 artists across the U.S. and Canada took part in the 14th annual Art in the High Desert.
The Central Oregon’s Premier Juried Art and Craft Show and Sale.
“This is an art show that was founded by artists Dave and Carla Fox and has always been run by artists for artists, for art lovers,” Co-chair Rachel Harvey said Sunday.
People got to enjoy art and connect with the artists, seeing photography, jewelry, painters. As well as sculptors, ceramicists, and woodworkers.
Co-Chair Darryl Cox said, “Patrons get to actually speak to the artists that actually made it. They’re standing there having the conversation and it’s also rewarding for the artists because they get to see why that is, why that connection is made between the art and the patron.”
Dawn King drove three hours from Amity, with Riverbend Park, her destination, to see the artwork on display, especially her sister-in-laws.
She said, “We came here to surprise her and then to look around and see different things. It’s pretty cool. there are some amazing artists here.”
Dawn appreciates seeing a family member’s dedication to their craft.
She added, “It’s neat to see and come down and see what she experiences when she goes to these.”
Artists who take part are chosen on certain criteria: original thought and intent, concept and consistency of style and presentation.
Harvey added, “Highly juried, so there’s a new jury every year. There’s an anonymous application process and five jurors who select the best of the best.”
If you missed the show, you can head over to Art in the High Desert website to see the participating artists and their links to their own websites.