State of the Art Presence – September 2026

AS SUMMER turns to fall, we have a lot of exciting events to share with you, from perky pastels to fantastic fluid art, and our popular annual Y’art Sale. Mark your calendar for fun…

Y’art Sale Returns September 19th!—Last year’s annual Y’art Sale fundraiser was such a great success, we’re having it again. This fun event on our front lawn features a large selection of pre-loved works of art for sale, plus a Kid’s Korner, raffle, silent auction, and live music! Come find new art for your home and loved ones while celebrating with wine, finger food, and great conversation Saturday, September 19, 1-4pm.

Guest Artist: “Pastel Inspirations” by Pastel Artists of Oregon—This month, we welcome back the Pastel Artists of Oregon, an association of wonderful pastel artists from around the state. PAO’s mission is to provide members and the public with events to promote the art of pastel through exhibitions, workshops, and public venues that elevate the art of pastel. This is a show to be seen—come meet many of the artists during the opening reception.

  • Opening reception: Saturday, September 5, 1-4pm
  • Exhibition Dates: September 2-27

Member Artist: Fluid Art of Brenda Mills Brannan—Brenda paints primarily with water media because she loves its transparent quality, vibrant colors and unpredictability. Her background in design and illustration focuses on detail. Water media and mixed media allow her to combine a tendency toward detail with a more spontaneous result. Spirited interpretations of birds, people, grape vines, etc., are somewhat realistic yet ethereal. Ethereal indeed!

Messy Hands: Fall Leaves in Watercolor with Lauren Card—Celebrate the beauty of autumn by creating a vibrant watercolor painting from a bird’s-eye perspective! In this fun and relaxed class led by Lauren Card, you’ll learn the basics of watercolor while painting a colorful arrangement of fall leaves and berries. We’ll explore watercolor techniques such as washes, layering, color mixing, and creating beautiful textures that bring your painting to life. Beginners are warmly welcome. Age 14 and up. Fee: $5.

Featured Author: “No This but This: A Novel” by Christin Lore Weber—”My time is told in the names of women I have loved. They are the veils that filter light’s intensity. They have been my heart’s fire,” explains Ella, the narrator of a story that extends through the many sacred moons of her life.

After School Art Club—Fall registration is now open! If you know a 1st-5th grader who loves making art, join us after school every Thursday or Friday from 3-4pm, from September 10- December 11. To register, go to https://art-presence.org/after-school-program/.

Featured image: “Autumn Radiance” by JE Ellison