Arts and culture

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, September 28, 2016

In the last decade, Redmond has worked tirelessly to build an inventory of public art to enhance the community. Three of the city’s gateways — north, west and east ends — have large sculptures on display. “Western Swing” on NW 6th Street and “Air Traffic Control” on SW Highland are by artist Greg Congleton and donated to the city by Phil and Penny Knight. The city purchased “Thoughts of Flight” by Jerry Werner and installed the iconic sculpture at the east entrance to the city along U.S. Highway 97. A large flag display began construction in August 2016 next to that entrance.

Several years ago, Redmond instituted a rotating outdoor art gallery, displaying an average of 10 pieces at any one time, and after a two-year period purchasing one to join the city’s permanent collection.

Redmond has a multitude of organizations dedicated to the arts and culture, and more seem to be forming every day. Here is a sampling:

High Desert Society of the Arts

This is a Redmond-based nonprofit that works to develop and support the arts in the community. It offers workshops, networking and support for local artists. (www.highdesertarts.org)

Central Oregon Writers Guild

This was formed to encourage local writers by providing support, education and resources, such as critique groups and workshops. (www.centraloregonwritersguild.com)

Redmond Community Concerts Association

This is a longtime community staple in the arts and entertainment. The season subscription-based nonprofit brings a diverse group of musicians and performers to town, welcoming them to the state-of-the-art Ridgeview High School performing arts center. (www.redmondcca.org)

Redmond Commission for Art in Public Places

This is a city-appointed group created to introduce art into select public locations and situations in order to create a unique sense of place and enhance community identity. (www.redmond.or.us)

Central Oregon Film Festival

Central Oregon Film Festical is a branch of Central Oregon Showcase which supports and promotes independent artists and filmmakers in Central Oregon. The Festival was first held in 2012 and has grown every year since. In the 2016 festival, held in May, more than $1,000 dollars in prizes and scholarships was awarded to film makers who entered their production. For more information visit www.centraloregonshowcase.com.

Central Oregon Showcase

This is the local arm of the national Sweet Adelines choral organization. The nonprofit choral group rehearses weekly and performs throughout Central Oregon. (www.showcasechorus.org)

Music in the Canyon

This is one of two outdoor summer concert programs in Redmond. Held on alternate Wednesdays — and the occasional Friday — the concerts typically host a diverse selection of musicians, from jazz to bluegrass to punk. Concerts are held in American Legion Community Park in Redmond. (www.musicinthecanyon.org)

Music on the Green

This is the oldest summer concert tradition in Redmond. Sponsored by the Redmond Chamber of Commerce, the concerts run June through September, on alternate Wednesdays, in Sam Johnson Park. (www.visitredmondoregon.com)

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