Eastern Oregon’s First Mural Festival
On October 11th, we began setting up for EOMF in downtown Ontario. Our hopes were to bring public art to the community and inspire people. We wanted to help create lasting work that could bring color to the downtown area. A group of artist from Boise, Idaho named Sector Seventeen painted the side of Vintage Rose. It was a modern touch with a portrait of the owners grand daughters. Secondly, Forest Wolf Kell of Portland, painted the side of Aarestad Physical Therapy. This was a perfect opportunity for people to understand why public art is important. Communities gain value – cultural, social, and economic value. Public art is a distinguishing part of our public history and our evolving culture. It reflects and reveals our society, adds meaning and uniqueness to our communities.
We originally approached the four businesses at the intersection of S Oregon St and 2nd, two proceeded with murals. Our goal over the next year is to consistently install more public art, with the communities permission around downtown to help increase the value of the community. People from the community became inspired. That weekend, there was a buzz in downtown with this new flurry of activity activating the streets. It was a great coming together of Oregon and Idaho creative communities.
Presented by Treasure Valley Cannabis Company.
Sponsored by Gron, Green State of Mind, Tour Print, Portland Street Art Alliance, Art Primo, Invoice Magazine, Guayaki, and Pro Rental Supply.
Thanks for all your help Forest Wolf Kell, Sector Seventeen, and Everett C.
