Sitka Center for Art and Ecology Art Show at World Forestry Center

"CONVERSATIONS WITH NATURE" ART SHOW COMING TO PORTLAND

Northwest art to be featured at the Sitka Art Invitational, November 15-16, 2008

Up to 500 pieces of art, created by 100 talented Northwest artists, and selected by three guest curators, will be on display and for sale at the World Forestry Center's Miller Hall in Portland, Oregon November 15-16 at the Sitka Art Invitational, Conversations with Nature.  In its 15th year, this year's exhibit is the first to present art focused on a central theme. It will include figurative, landscape, abstract, color field and all other genre in all media, inspired by the relationship nature has with sustaining humanity.

"As an artist, educator, and lover of fine art and craft, it was a great honor to co-curate the 2008 Sitka Art Invitational. With the 100 talented Northwest artists we chose, I believe we are all in for a real treat in November," said Kristin Shiga, artist and show curator. 

This rare opportunity to view and purchase some of the Northwest's finest art directly from the artist is open to the public on Saturday and Sunday (November 15-16), from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for free. To learn more about the art and the 100 artists behind the work, plan on taking free a guided tour at 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. on Saturday or Sunday.

A panel discussion will take place from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on November 15, open to the public. Come and participate with artists, curators and exhibit organizers in a conversation about ecological influences on art, how artists change our perception of the earth, and how the exhibit urges us to examine art and nature.

Also, tickets are now available for the Opening Night Artist Party, to be held Friday, November 14 at the World Forestry Center. This event is filled with food, wine, live music and the opportunity to meet the artists behind the show. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are $85. To be part of this special event, contact the Sitka Center at 541-994-5485 or  email: [email protected]. 

Committed to expanding the relationships between art, nature and humanity, the Sitka Center for Art and Ecology is renowned for its workshop and residency programs.  Founded in 1970 by artist Frank Boyden and musician Jane Boyden, ecology and exploration of the coastal environment have remained key components to the Center's vitality.  Located on Cascade Head, with views of the Pacific Ocean, Sitka offers a place where artists come to inspire, create, and ultimately, transform themselves.  Money raised at the event supports artists for their works sold and Sitka Center programs. Go to  www.sitkacenter.org to learn more about Sitka programs.

For further information, contact: Eric Vines -or- Michele Ruby, public relations

Sitka Center executive director 503.550.4765

[email protected]

[email protected]