State of the Art Presence – Dec 2024/Jan 2025

CAN YOU BELIEVE it’s already the holiday season? We’re so grateful to all our patrons and supporters who’ve made this past year so special. Come on in and get cozy in our gallery while enjoying both new and familiar works of art by our talented Member and Gift Gallery artists. Remember, art and creative mementos make wonderful, personalized gifts, and Art Presence has a unique selection to choose from.

Special Member’s Show: “The Art of Giving”—This month, our back wall features a special show: “The Art of Giving.” Our Member Artists are a creative bunch, and they’ve created brand-new pieces that capture the spirit of giving. Each artist brings their own unique perspective to this theme using a variety of media. Come see how our artists have interpreted “giving” through their artistic expression. The exhibit runs December 6-29. Join us for the Opening Reception on Saturday, December 7, from 1-4pm, and meet many of these talented Members and see their work up close.

Member Artist Spotlight: Deanna St. Martin—Deanna St. Martin wears a couple of different hats here at Art Presence. She is assisting with the Jacksonville Elementary School Art Elective. Deanna loves experimenting with liquid watercolors. Her paintings are full of vibrant colors that capture the imagination. She’s also an award-winning artist with the Watercolor Society of Oregon!

Messy Hands for All: Paper Ornaments with Arlis Duncan—Join Arlis for a fun, family activity. You’ll choose a pattern, color it as much or as little as you want, and then learn how to turn your flat paper into a cheerful paper ball. It’s a fun activity at any time of year, but we’ll have a special focus on Christmas during this class. The class will be held in our upstairs classroom on December 14, from 1:30-3pm. All supplies are provided free of charge thanks to a generous donation from the Carpenter Foundation.

After School Art Club—We’re excited about expanding our art education program. We’re starting a new after school art club in Jacksonville starting in January. Stay tuned for more details as we get the program up and running.

Opening for New Board Member—Do you have experience with non-profit fundraising? We’re looking for a new board member who can help develop and oversee our non-profit Development program. If you’re interested in sharing your development skills with us, please contact Arlis Duncan at info@art-presence.org.

Gift Gallery—“The Art of Giving” theme flows through the Gift Gallery, too. Find unique and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones (or yourself!), featuring handcrafted treasures by local and regional artists.

Winter Hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday noon-5pm.