6x6 Show a Huge Success

When we first began to develop the idea of a 6x6 fundraiser for Oregon Crafted, we wanted to provide the community with affordable art without asking the artists for a huge donation. We also wanted to get the community involved with the art community by not only purchasing art, but by creating and contributing art as well. We set a goal of 100 pieces and received more that 140. Not only did our member artists donate 6x6 pieces, local art students, art enthusiasts, crafters and creative community members created and donated pieces as well. The quality and diversity of the art we received was way beyond our expectations. In hanging the show, we were continually amazed and pleased with how fun and fashionable the show became and we began to realize what a bargain these pieces were at just $20 apiece. Some of the pieces by established artists have well over $100 invested just in materials, let alone labor and creative design. Others represent the priceless, varied, unique and sometimes quirky nature of Eugene and Willamette Valley residents - like the VW Bus, the beaded Willamette Valley Rain, or the sock monkey face. There truly is something for everyone at this show.

While most pieces sold during our opening reception on March 5th, a few gems still remain for sale and three prize pieces remain to be raffled. The show closes this Friday, April 2nd, and those who were lucky enough to purchase an art piece will be able to pick up the art then. The raffle drawing will be held the evening of April 2nd, during our closing reception. If you want to see what amazing artistic talent the Eugene area possesses, please stop by our gallery and view the show in its final week.

Thanks for helping keep art alive in our community.

Oregon Art was on display at the first annual Oregon Crafted Sampler Show and boy, did it look good. At least 1800 art lovers strolled the aisles, admiring and purchasing the stunning art on display. Many commented on the variety and quality of art as refreshing. Said one visitor, "I haven't seen a show with this degree of quality in town in a long time." Gallery representatives agreed. They were quite pleased with the quality of art and the convenience of having so many accomplished artists in one show. A number of our artists were commissioned to show their art in galleries around the state. Most artists experienced good sales too making the show an overall success. Artists and shoppers alike asked Oregon Crafted to host another show next year, some wanting us to host two a year. We'll get to work on next year's show very soon. Meanwhile, look for Oregon Crafted's new gallery store at 228 East 11th Avenue to open early 2010. A grand opening featuring a Six by Six Show of pieces by accomplished artists, amateurs, and community art lovers will be held during the First Friday Art Walk in February 2010. The 6x6 Show will run through March 5th.