State of the Art Presence – November 2025

THE HOLIDAYS are in the air, and you know what that means at Art Presence: it’s time for our “Gathering of Angels” show! Step into an extra-special time at the gallery to immerse yourself in stunning art creations and discover unique gifts. Plus, there’s a host of exciting activities to enjoy throughout the month.

First, visit the Gift Gallery—Before diving into the month’s events, a reminder about our extraordinary Gift Gallery—a treasure trove of unique and special, smaller art pieces, from delicate ceramics to dazzling jewelry. This is your ultimate starting point for holiday shopping!

Community Exhibit: A Gathering of Angels—We are thrilled to welcome the ethereal into the gallery with “A Gathering of Angels” gracing our gallery for two glorious months this year.

Local artists and gallery members are participating in this annual event, which has become a beloved winter tradition in our community. Come ready to be captivated by original artworks depicting angels, saints, and ephemeral entities of all kinds. It’s a truly special show.

Meet the Artists: Join us for the Opening Reception on Saturday, November 8, from 1-4pm.

On display for two months! The exhibition runs from November 5- December 28.

Member Artist: Walt Wirfs: Painter in Many Media—A third-generation Oregonian, Walt began his journey with drawing and painting in grade school, blossoming into a lifelong passion. He has dedicated himself full-time to working in watercolor, oils, acrylics, graphite, and gouache, and finds joy in traversing the Pacific Northwest, skillfully capturing the breathtaking beauty of its landscapes and coastlines.

Messy Hands: Sugar Skulls with Jean Mailander—Join Jean for a delightful afternoon decorating vibrant sugar skulls with brightly colored royal icing. These Day of the Dead skulls beautifully represent a departed loved one and are traditionally placed on an altar, an ofrenda, as a heartfelt offering to the spirit of the dead. Fee: $5

When: November 8, 1:30-3pm, limit 15 (Upstairs Classroom—during the Opening Reception)

Register: Secure your spot at art-presence.org/messy-hands (Education > Messy Hands)

Third Saturday: Paper Beadmaking Jewelry Class with Thalia Keple—Try your hand in a wonderfully creative paper beadmaking class! You’ll learn how to roll several basic bead shapes. By the end, you’ll be able to craft a unique piece of jewelry. Decorative paper, glue, scissors, and jewelry-making supplies provided—just bring your brilliant ideas and papers in your favorite colors, prints, and designs! Fee: $5.

When: November 15, 1-2:30pm, limit 12 (Upstairs Classroom)

Register: Sign up at art-presence.org/third-saturdays-at-art-presence (Education > Third Saturdays)

Book of the Month: County Folk by Sue Waldron—Penned by a Medford native and esteemed local historian, “County Folk” beautifully weaves together the stories of fifteen early residents of Jackson County, Oregon.

Featured image: “Belinda: Angel of the Starry Night” by Trisha Mills.