High Desert Gallery of Central Oregon

Sue Favinger Smith - A Perfect Respite

High Desert Gallery is pleased to feature several new works by Oregon artist Sue Favinger Smith at our Sisters Oregon Art Gallery, located at 281 W Cascade Avenue at Oak. We asked Sue to write down some thoughts on three of her new works so we could share it with our online readers.  The original paintings look stunning online and even better viewed in the gallery.  Stop by High Desert Gallery in downtown Sisters Oregon -- We are open daily 10am to 5pm.  To view larger images, please click on the images they will open in a new tab/window.

Please contact us at 866-549-6250 or Email to inquire about Sue's new work.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Rimrock Springs: I like to paint places of solitude. Rimrock Springs is located between Madras and Prineville, in the Crooked River National Grasslands. Historically, this was once a homestead for an early Prineville pioneer, but it has since been turned into a national wildlife preserve. The springs create a marsh and feed Willow Creek, and the area supports numerous species of songbirds, waterfowl, aquatic mammals, raptors, deer, antelope and coyote. One winter day as we walked the path we came across animal tracks that were large enough to be a mountain lion, and we decided to cut short our hike and get back to the car and save the exploring for another day.  Oil on linen on panel 12" x 16"

Along the Deschutes: This painting is very much in the tradition of the  Impressionists, with the emphasis on capturing the movement of light through the willows along the riverbank. "Along the Deschutes" celebrates the quiet mood of the river as it flows through Cline Falls State Park.  Oil on canvas on panel 8" x 16"

Linden Trees and Water: Some of my work is heavily influenced by the Hudson River School painters, their concepts about man (or woman) as the explorer, and the sublime effect of light on hidden landscapes. I came across this scene one hot afternoon when I was hiking with my dogs at Smith Rock State Park. We were exploring a back trail, and the dogs - always ready for a cool drink and a nap - found this spot before I did. After the heat of the day, finding this little stream flowing down toward the river below was a perfect respite.  Oil on canvas on panel 20" x 16"

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About Sue Favinger Smith: Working mostly in oils, Sue Smith is interested in discovering a sense of place and capturing that unique essence. Her work ranges from abstract to realism,  but remains centered on the landscape. Influenced by the ideas of modern master Quang Ho, each painting makes a unique visual statement. “Whether abstract or realism, it is first, the relationship created as light flows across a form or through a space that excites me, and second, discovering what poetic secrets the natural world holds. I want to be surprised by what I'm seeing, and I try to find a single visual statement that communicates the energy of a particular time and place – and that can be either in reality or the imagination. They all tell stories.” Sue Smith began her award-winning career at the age of 50. She received a degree in art from Oregon State University, where she was honored with the Distinguished Student-Department of Art award. Over the years Sue has participated in national and regional exhibitions, solo and three-person shows. She is an associate member of Women Artists of the West and Oil Painters of America, and a peer-juried member in the prestigious National Association of Women Artists, the oldest professional arts organization for women in the country. Her work is in private collections across the country.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail gallery locations in Bend, Oregon and Sisters Oregon.  High Desert Frameworks! the award-winning framing studio for the gallery is located at 61 NW Oregon Avenue at Lava in downtown Bend, Oregon. The gallery specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.

Trisha Hassler - Thoughts on her new show: Dissimilar Elements

We asked Nationally known Oregon artist, Trisha Hassler to provide some insight and thoughts on her upcoming Exhibition and Sale titled: Dissimilar Elements and specifically about her new work (images below) that will  premier at High Desert Gallery in Bend Oregon on June 3, 2010.  To read more about Dissimilar Elements, times and location visit: Trisha Hassler.

In this perfect community we all live on a street where all the homes face east to greet the morning sun.  

In this perfect village we all live on a street where unconditional love is offered freely to all.  

In this perfect village we all live in harmony with plentiful flora to provide nourishment and balance the air we breathe.  And in this perfect place our nights are spent under a canopy of stars above allowing us the safety to dream.   

The Domain series offers choices for living harmoniously with our families and surroundings allowing us to ask for what we need.  The work was inspired by the need for us all to embrace an authentic life experience.  Each domain is assigned it's own address so we can find our way home. 

By using strong industrial grade steel for the dwellings, the fragility of our hopes and dreams are protected and nurtured inside.  And just as an extra safety net, the explosion of fringe around the edges is responsible for tangling and confusing negativity keeping the dreams safe and sound for each of us.

Trisha Hassler - June 2010

    

      

About Trisha Hassler:  Lifetime quilter and award winning Oregon Artist, Trisha has enjoyed numerous group and one woman exhibits throughout the United States and New Zealand.  Her work has been published internationally in books and magazines highlighting contemporary fiber work.  As a current board member of Art In The Pearl Fine Arts & Crafts Festival and former board member of L.O.C.A.L. 14 she is very involved in the local arts community in her home town of Portland.  Trisha embraces both torch-cut steel and improvisational quilt construction and through her artistic abilities combines the two mediums into one art form even though the two parts are considered at opposite ends of the artistic spectrum.  Her work is known for it's intricacy and surface detail and the use of the dissimilar elements has become her trademark.  Trisha Hassler's artwork is available exclusively in Central Oregon at High Desert Gallery in Bend and Sisters, Oregon.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with three High Desert Gallery retail locations in Bend, Oregon, and Sisters, Oregon, and High Desert Frameworks! located at 431 NW Franklin Avenue at Lava in downtown Bend, Oregon. The gallery specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as a "Top 100 Art and Framing Gallery in America" and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006, 2008 and 2009). International Framing Awards earned by High Desert Gallery include First Place and Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association (PPFA) 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition and Third Place in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2008-2009 International Print Framing Competition.

For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.

Want to be in the know? Then follow us on via Google Buzz, RSS, Facebook, Twitter or subscribe to our blog. To download your free iTunes or Android app visit: High Desert Gallery App Store.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

New Work of the Oregon Outback Series - Sue Favinger Smith

High Desert Gallery of Central Oregon is pleased to introduce two new Oregon landscapes by Sue Smith, from her Paintings From The Oregon Outback Series.

Spring Aspens, 18 x 24, oil on canvas. "Where I live in Oregon I'm 20 minutes away from wilderness - snow capped mountains, alpine meadows, streams and aspen groves. I love this environment, the idea that you can find a place that still feels empty and pristine. Spring Aspens is such a place."

Stone Fence, 16 x 20, oil on linen on board. "Several years ago I discovered this fence and an old blue house behind it. There was a beautiful azure blue gate between stone pillars which had initially attracted my attention. But time passed. I forgot about this spot. Then recently, I returned to the site and was dismayed to discover that the house had burned down and the gate had disappeared. Still, there was a sense of what had been, and I wanted to capture that resilient dignity on this gray winter day."

Sue Favinger Smith, Redmond Oregon 2010

About Sue Favinger Smith: Sue Smith began her award-winning career at the age of 50, earning an art degree from Oregon State University in 2005. Since then she has focused on oil painting, exploring the techniques and color used by painters who inspire her. Sue has participated in national and regional exhibitions, solo and three-person shows, and is a member of Women Artists of the West, Oil Painters of America, and the prestigious National Association of Women Artists, the oldest professional arts organization for women in the country. Her work is in private collections across the country.

For more information on Sue Favinger Smith, to view more work and purchase please visit High Desert Gallery in Bend Oregon or call 541-388-8964 or 866-549-6250. You can also contact by email.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with three High Desert Gallery retail locations in Bend, Oregon and Sisters Oregon and one High Desert Frameworks! located in downtown Bend, Oregon. The gallery specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.

Jacob Norris Paints the Birds of Central Oregon - Bend Oregon

During a year on the coast, Jacob Norris spent much of his time studying A Field Guide to Western Birds by Roger Paterson. The painted images lead Jacob toward the goal of one day completing his own book of bird illustrations. High Desert Gallery, at our downtown Bend Oregon gallery location, 10 NW Minnesota Avenue at The Oxford, is pleased to present Four new oil on board paintings by Jacob Norris as he paints the birds of Central Oregon. 

             

“The Wood Duck inspires me. How can I pass up a chance to paint a bird that is already a painted masterpiece of nature? If I had the chance to use the tools God used in creating the quilted design of the wood duck I would take it.

Drake Park...full of Mallards, a forest of green bobbing heads, a community of familiar floaters racing to the water's edge. They meet their benefactors and dance like jesters in the midst of the common folk, a wood duck and his lover, a patchwork of many places. One may wonder if he is a vulnerable feathered friend, so bright and lacking in the brown and green camouflage. But alas, he knows nothing of differences. He is a duck, he swims, he flies, he eats bread, and in these ordinary actions the onlookers smile at his beauty.”

“Blue Bird and Chickadee – on walks in the urban Juniper forests on the east side of Bend, a flock of blue birds scuffle ruffle the branches eating seeds, insects, and drinking water from melted snow on lava rocks. Their companion chickadee sprinkles cheerful bits of notes...chick-chick a dee-a-dee – hence the name. These birds flow with a truth that mirrors a feeling in my soul, a timeless resonance, fearless, nameless – carefree; whim here, whim there. When I hear them and see them my heart bursts with horns and strings symphonic. Their images are iconic, etched in my mind, bringing back memories of walks in magical, haunted damp forests. Emotion, coming of age newness, freshness, the Nature Moment, survival Grace...to be continued...”

“Quail - early in the morning – eight or nine o'clock, a covey of quail shuffle into the soft sunlight of our winter gypsy home. They peck away like chickens, but with the slightest motion...a scurry, and they have joined the quiet family of deer hidden in the bushes. One hundred eyes staring out behind the twigs of winter, ears perked, a feather ready. Like sweet damsels, a feather pinned to their hat, they scurry around the town learning the news and gossip of the day, taking tea, nibbling on bits of ground and disappearing for their afternoon nap.”

Jacob Norris, Bend Oregon, February 2010

About Jacob Norris: As a young boy, Jacob Norris was inspired by his grandfather, Walter Joseph Norris II, an oil painter and artist. Jacob's first art experience was also influenced by his grandfather, when he copied a painting of Mt. Jefferson in pencil, before moving on to charcoal, which Jacob describes as "an extension of my fingers." During a year on the coast, Jacob spent much of his time studying A Field Guide to Western Birds by Roger Paterson. The illustrations of birds, painted by the author, lead Jacob toward painting his own images of birds, in oil on panel, and toward the goal of one day printing his own book of painted birds of the area. In high school, Jacob met Ken Roth, a respected art teacher and successful artist in his own right. Jacob says, “Meeting Ken was a turning point in my art career – he gave me a voice in my artwork – he let me sing.” While Ken Roth was Jacob's mentor in high school, he now sees his former student as a contemporary, and often paints with Jacob and Portland based artist Nathaniel Praska en plein air. Jacob has exhibited regionally and is represented in Central Oregon by High Desert Gallery. He touches the soul of those he meets and continues to paint, dream, and live the romance of the artist.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with three High Desert Gallery retail locations in Bend, Oregon, Redmond and Sisters Oregon and High Desert Frameworks! located at 431 NW Franklin Avenue at Lava in downtown Bend, Oregon. The gallery specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as a "Top 100 Art and Framing Gallery in America" and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006, 2008 and 2009). International Framing Awards earned by High Desert Gallery include First Place and Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association (PPFA) 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition and Third Place in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2008-2009 International Print Framing Competition.

For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250. Want to be in the know? Then follow us on via RSS, Facebook, Twitter or subscribe to our blog. To download your free iTunes app visit: High Desert Gallery iPhone App at the App Store.The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

High Desert Gallery Bend Oregon Features "The Intrepid Elk" by Grace Bishko

High Desert Gallery's mission is to present the Art and Soul of Central Oregon. When we explore the everyday environment through the prism of the contemporary artists who live here, we are transformed, enriched in our experience and viewpoint. We support the appreciation and collecting of fine art that connects community, opens new avenues of understanding, and heals the spirit.

High Desert Gallery is honored and pleased to present a new original painting by nationally known artist, Grace Bishko, in our new gallery location at the Oxford Hotel, 10 NW Minnesota at Lava, downtown Bend. Grace's work presents questions through a mixture of fable and displacement, exploring our human relationships with the other creatures sharing the environment. 

“The Intrepid Elk” is an original oil on canvas, 24 x 30 inches.

“This painting belongs to the ongoing group of my works that illustrate the displacement of wildlife. It’s the first time, though, that I’ve used the elk image. So far, the raven, wolf and man - 'The Ancient Trilogy' - have been the subjects of the 'displacement' series. Including the elk, opens up the story. It adds the presence of food for man, wolf, raven and others. Wolf will follow the elk herds, and eventually choose the weakest to bring down. Usually it’s a sick animal, or one that is very old. Man will hunt for meat also. Both of them will leave certain parts of the animal for carrion eaters, like ravens, coyotes and foxes.

The characters in this narrative painting are in a confusing environment. Trees are growing inside, the wolf is both inside and outside. The raven is waiting patiently in the tree. Their behavior is lodged in their brain and automatic, regardless of the change in their environment. However, the human has changed himself into a coyote. He wears a coyote mask, and has clothed himself in red. As human beings we can change our costume, and our thought process, and become something we wish for. I respect my human world. However, I also have respect for all animals in this world for what they are, and I want them to survive.” Grace Bishko, September 30, 2009

To inquire about "The Intrepid Elk" please call 866-549-6250 or contact us online at Contact High Desert Gallery.

About Grace Bishko: Grace lives in Central Oregon, hikes the trails, and paints her memories of what she has seen. A serious and honest painter, she paints from her heart and of her memories and experiences. Her imagery contains an ever so slight surreal edge to grab and retain the viewer's attention, while at the same time satisfying their deep emotions and enjoyment. High Desert Gallery is truly honored to represent Grace Bishko. In the 1970's she decided to stop painting directly from "life," and to develop a vocabulary that would allow her to paint through her personal feelings. Through education, and experimentation, her creative endeavors evolved in many stages. The results of this adventure are embedded in the artwork she is involved in today. Now, Grace is honored that her paintings are appreciated and understood across a wide multicultural expanse. Winning all possible awards at the Cleveland Institute of Art, she went on to receive her Master of Fine Arts degree from Rutgers, The State University, Mason Gross School of the Arts. After receiving her M.F.A. degree, Grace taught life drawing at Rutgers, design at University of the Arts, and lithography at Moore College of Art. Since then, she has focused on her own art, exhibiting yearly in solo and group exhibitions. High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon is honored to represent Grace Bishko exclusively in Central Oregon.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with three High Desert Gallery retail locations in Bend, Oregon, Redmond and Sisters Oregon and one High Desert Frameworks! located in downtown Bend, Oregon. The gallery specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.

High Desert Gallery of Central Oregon Presents "Jump Off" - A New Original Painting by Kimry Jelen

Fans and collectors know it - equine artist Kimry Jelen has a special gift: she captures the heart, spirit, beauty and power of horses. In 2008, her painting “Sky Jump” represented the Central Oregon High Desert Classics, and was so successful that this year Kimry was again commissioned to create a painting, titled “Jump Off,” for the 20th anniversary of the event.

“2009 is the 20th anniversary of the Oregon High Desert Classics. The poster for last year was a big success so I was asked to do the artwork and design for this year's poster too! I wanted to include the two types of horses that compete caught mid-action. A "Jump Off" is a timed competition to see who can accurately jump a course the fastest. It is thrilling to watch! The bold energy, the size of the painting and color are representative of the action and excitement in jumping. The mountains are the backdrop for this event, it's amazing to see a horse leaping tall jumps with one of the Three Sisters behind it. Three horses made it into the painting, two braided "Hunters" and a "Jumper" - you can tell by the hair-dos.” - Kimry Jelen, 2009

Kimry also suggests, “If you want to know more about Hunters and Jumpers, check out this link!”

About the Art: “Jump Off” is a 36" x 48" one-of-a-kind original acrylic painting on canvas, professionally framed by award-winning custom framer Myrna Dow. High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon is pleased and honored to make available artwork by Oregon artist, Kimry Jelen. For more information or to purchase "Jump Off" call the gallery at 866-549-6250 or visit: Kimry Jelen's Jump Off

About the Oregon High Desert Classics: The Oregon High Desert Classics is the largest and most prestigious hunter-jumper competition in the Northwest, bringing over 500 of the finest horses and most talented riders from the United States and Canada to Bend. Each Classic draws professional and amateur competitors and closes on Sunday with the Grand Prix competition, where the top horses and riders compete for purses up to $25,000. Since its inception in 1990, this annual fundraiser has become a premier event for both riders and spectators. Competitors enjoy a USA Equestrian A-Rated show on superb grass footing, while spectators (no admission fee for spectators) enjoy the athletic skill of the horses and riders and a variety of food and shopping at vendor booths.

2009 Daily schedule is 7:30am - 4:30pm, Wednesday - Sunday; 2009 Grand Prix - Main event each Saturday, July 18 & July 25 at 5:00pm approximately. Mini Prix - each Sunday, July 19 & July 26 at 2:00pm approximately. Check out www.jbarj.org for more information.

J Bar J Youth Services, the host of the High Desert Classics, was established in 1968 as a private non-profit organization providing quality programs for youth and their families. Their mission statement is "Innovative options for at-risk youth and families toward self-sufficiency and personal responsibility". The proceeds from the High Desert Classics fundraiser go towards J bar J's program. For more information visit www.jbarj.org

High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing
281 W Cascade Avenue at Oak
Sisters, Oregon 97759
541-388-8964 / 866-549-6250
Open Daily: 10am to 6pm (Summer Hours)
www.highdesertgallery.com

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with three High Desert Gallery retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Open Summer 2009), Redmond and Sisters Oregon and one High Desert Frameworks! located in downtown Bend, Oregon. The gallery specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as a "Top 100 Art and Framing Gallery in America" and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006, 2007 & 2008) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006, & 2008). International Framing Awards earned by High Desert Gallery include First Place and Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association (PPFA) 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition and Third Place in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2008-2009 International Print Framing Competition. For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250. The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Sneak Preview -- “West of West,” A Celebration of Ranch Life at High Desert Gallery -- Sisters Oregon

The “West of West,” A Celebration of Ranch Life at High Desert Gallery Group Show Opens May 30 through June 29. Please join us for the Artist Group Reception Saturday, May 30, from 4 – 7pm.

The All-Star lineup of High Desert Gallery Artists includes Cristina Acosta, J Chester Armstrong, Paul Alan Bennett, Grace Bishko, Glen Corbett, Kathy Deggendorfer, Trisha Hassler, Kimry Jelen, Sue Smith, Jean Wells, Jerry Werner.

High Desert Gallery And Custom Framing
281 W Cascade Avenue at Oak  Sisters, Oregon 97759
541-388-8964 / 866-549-6250
Open Daily: F/S/S/M 10am to 5pm, T/W/H 10am-2:30pm (Spring Hours)
Open Daily: 10am to 6pm Starting June 14, 2009 (Summer Hours)
www.highdesertgallery.com

“Howdy Pardner” – Watercolor on Paper, by Kathy Deggendorfer (Image)

When I was a little kid growing up in the 50’s and 60’s in Portland I dreamt of the life of a cowboy. My parents told me my very first words were “Dat Da Dah”... I’d point to horses in the field and shout "Dat Da Dah!" Apparently because in the TV show, The Lone Ranger., every time he rode onto the screen the music would come up -- dat da da dah, dat da da dah, dah daaaaaaaah da! Hence, horse = dat dah dah.

My Dad was from Tucson so every summer vacation ---you got it... SUMMER vacation-- we would leave cool and rainy Portland and drive to Tucson to visit relatives. We’d swelter in the in unaccustomed heat but I loved to go because they’d take me out to a ranch and let me ride a horse! I’d pack my authentic western leather vest with the fringe trim and the metal studded holster and pearl handled six shooters I begged for every year at Christmas. I’d always get new boots and jeans in Tucson... much better selection, don’t ya know. I remember the year they begged the wrangler to tell me that " Cowgirls really do comb their hair". Hmmmm. They never showed any real personal hygiene on those TV shows. Oh, how I wanted to live there in Arizona and have my own horse--even though it was hotter than Hades and the bugs and snakes bit people and the bushes had thorns.

This piece, “ Howdy Pardner” is kind of an homage to all that childhood longing for wide open spaces and the dusty trail.

The border is reminiscent of this really cool Indian Chief Headdress that we had as kids-- it was made of colored feathers sewn into a band of red, yellow and blue felt. With this thing on you could command half the neighborhood kids, lead war parties, smoke imaginary peace pipes and feel very much connected to the history of the West.

The cowboy in the center looks a little bit like Dan Hicks from Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks-- I just replaced his guitar with a coyote... two truly great Western singers.

Of course, I had to put the mountains and the foothills of Sisters as the backdrop. It’s where I always hoped I would end up-- on a ranch near the mountains.

The floral pattern in the background came from an old embroidered cowboy shirt I used to have -- ahhh, it was a beauty!

The corners are dominated by the horseshoe prints left by my trustee mare--Boogie --on a field of red paisley like my favorite red cowboy bandana.

"The Lone Ranger", "My Friend Flicka", "Rin Tin Tin", "Sky King", maybe even a little bit of "Bonanza" (oh, wasn't Little Joe somethin' else???) thrown in.

Those TV Westerns made me pine for the life of a cowboy--- and guess what? Here I am--living on a ranch--horses, cows, with hay in my pockets and wearing cowboy boots every day of the year! -- Kathy Deggendorfer May 2009

Patricia Martin-Freeman: Herd Dynamics

“Standing Cattle” 22” x 7.5” Pen and Watercolor on Paper

I have spent years of my life watching cattle. As a rancher, one of my jobs was to watch and monitor cattle for health. I have a talent for identifying cattle that are coming down with illness. As a competitor at cow cutting competitions, studying the cattle for indications of their behavior and to remember each one of the herd as an individual, is a way to increase one's chances of doing well in the competition.

This little painting is an example of what I love about drawing cattle; even though they are all basically the same creature, they each have unique and identifying faces, lines, markings, and personalities. I love drawing cattle. They are a simple shape that is never the same from moment to moment. I love how cattle stand in groups. There is always a rhythm and pattern to the way the individuals make up the herd, and the way the light falls and scatters through, down and around their blocky forms. -- Patricia Freeman-Martin, March 2009

About Patricia Freeman-Martin: Patricia was raised in a ranching and rodeo family in Eastern Oregon, graduating from high school in Pendleton, Oregon. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, magna cum laude, from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She moved to New York City and spent nearly five years in the East Village. During a visit home, she fell in love with a potato farmer from Southern Idaho and never returned to New York. For 16 years, Patricia and her family lived and worked on their ranch at the foot of the Elkhorn Mountains in North Powder, Oregon. Ranching and cutting horses have been an integral part of her life as well as inspiration for her art. In 2004 Patricia and her family purchased a horse ranch in Terrebonne, Oregon, near Smith Rock. Patricia has woven together a beautiful and complex life of many different themes; cattle ranching, cutting horses, family, and art. She uses a variety of mixed media to talk about her experiences in the western landscape and her style reflects her fresh, honest and whimsical way of viewing the world.

Patricia Freeman-Martin – Original Paintings & Monoprints
March 1 through March 31, 2009
High Desert Gallery, 281 W Cascade Avenue at Oak, Sisters, Oregon 97759
541-388-8964 / 866-549-6250
Open Daily (Winter Hours): F/S/S/M 10am to 5pm, T/W/H 10am-2:30pm
www.highdesertgallery.com

To purchase “Standing Cattle” please contact High Desert Gallery

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations  in Bend, Oregon (Open Summer 2009), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as a "Top 100 Art and Framing Gallery in America" and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006, 2007 & 2008) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006, & 2008). International Framing Awards earned by High Desert Gallery include First Place and Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association (PPFA) 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition and Third Place in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2008-2009 International Print Framing Competition. For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250. The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Original artwork by listed artist(s). All rights reserved and copyright 2009. Use of image is restricted and prohibited without prior written permission.

Grace Bishko: I See it more completely

Inside Out -Oils on Canvas - 23.75 x 20.00 inches (Image) by Grace Bishko

This painting is all about color, pattern, and displaced and unexpected placement of some of the images. When I come across something “out of place”, I see it more completely. However, it’s easy to walk right by objects, people, animals, etc. that are where they’ve always been, without seeing them.

Creating the painting, “Inside Out” was a little bit challenging, and a lot of fun. I “threw the dice” so to speak, and took my chances! -- Grace Bishko March 2009

High Desert Gallery is pleased and honored to make available artwork by Nationally Acclaimed Oregon artist, Grace Bishko.

About Grace Bishko: Grace lives in Central Oregon, hikes the trails, and paints her memories of what she has seen. A serious and honest painter, she paints from her heart and of her memories and experiences. Her imagery contains an ever so slight surreal edge to grab and retain the viewer's attention, while at the same time satisfying their deep emotions and enjoyment. High Desert Gallery is truly honored to represent Grace Bishko.

In the 1970's she decided to stop painting directly from "life," and to develop a vocabulary that would allow her to paint through her personal feelings. Through education, and experimentation, her creative endeavors evolved in many stages. The results of this adventure are embedded in the artwork she is involved in today. Now, Grace is honored that her paintings are appreciated and understood across a wide multicultural expanse.

Winning all possible awards at the Cleveland Institute of Art, she went on to receive her Master of Fine Arts degree from Rutgers, The State University, Mason Gross School of the Arts. After receiving her M.F.A. degree, Grace taught life drawing at Rutgers, design at University of the Arts, and lithography at Moore College of Art. Since then, she has focused on her own art, exhibiting yearly in solo and group exhibitions.

High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon is honored to represent Grace Bishko exclusively in Central Oregon.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Open Summer 2009), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as a "Top 100 Art and Framing Gallery in America" and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006, 2007 & 2008) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006, & 2008). International Framing Awards earned by High Desert Gallery include First Place and Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association (PPFA) 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition and Third Place in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2008-2009 International Print Framing Competition . For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250. The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Original artwork by listed artist(s). All rights reserved and copyright 2009. Use of image is restricted and prohibited without prior written permission.

Patricia Freeman-Martin: Trick Rider Series and more opens in Sisters Oregon

High Desert Gallery is honored to feature new fine art prints and original mixed media paintings by Oregon Artist, Patricia Freeman-Martin. The exhibition and sale is hosted by High Desert Gallery in Sisters Oregon and will continue through March 2009.

Typically a mixed media painter, and collage artist, printmaking was completely new to me less than a year ago. Using the monoprint process has now become my favorite way to draw. It is the first process I have used that freely allows me to draw using a reductive approach. I love the process of applying ink to the plate, and then, using a variety of tools, remove ink until I am left with the image. The informality and flexibility of the monoprinting process provides immediate gratification. It is a way to create an image which has the vitality and freshness of a sketch, but the weight and depth of a fine ink drawing on beautiful paper.

I am excited to show this work which features rodeo trick riders as my subject matter. When I was young, my family spent a lot of time at rodeos, watching my father and his friends and brothers compete. There was always a trick rider act for entertainment. I was enthralled by these acts. I loved the theatricality of their courageous stunts, their costumes, their trust in their horses and their own abilities. My drawing of the trick riders is spreading to other areas of the rodeo, and the parades that were a frequent part of the rodeo tradition. I’m now starting to draw the calf ropers, now called tie-down roping, and the trick ropers. I’m looking forward to exploring this imagery more, as I am beginning to draw from old photographs of my father roping in the 1960’s, and some vintage photographs of trick riders from the 1920’s and 30’s. -- Patricia Freeman-Martin, March 2009

Patricia Freeman-Martin – Original Paintings & Monoprints
March 1 through March 31, 2009

High Desert Gallery, 281 W Cascade Avenue at Oak, Sisters, Oregon 97759

541-388-8964 / 866-549-6250
Open Daily (Winter Hours): F/S/S/M 10am to 5pm, T/W/H 10am-2:30pm
www.highdesertgallery.com

About Patricia Freeman-Martin: Patricia was raised in a ranching and rodeo family in Eastern Oregon, graduating from high school in Pendleton, Oregon. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, magna cum laude, from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She moved to New York City and spent nearly five years in the East Village. During a visit home, she fell in love with a potato farmer from Southern Idaho and never returned to New York. For 16 years, Patricia and her family lived and worked on their ranch at the foot of the Elkhorn Mountains in North Powder, Oregon. Ranching and cutting horses have been an integral part of her life as well as inspiration for her art. In 2004 Patricia and her family purchased a horse ranch in Terrebonne, Oregon, near Smith Rock. Patricia has woven together a beautiful and complex life of many different themes; cattle ranching, cutting horses, family, and art. She uses a variety of mixed media to talk about her experiences in the western landscape and her style reflects her fresh, honest and whimsical way of viewing the world.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Open Summer 2009), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing  in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as a "Top 100 Art and Framing Gallery in America" and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006, 2007 & 2008) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006, & 2008). In February 2008, High Desert Gallery was awarded Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition. For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250. The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Original artwork by listed artist(s). All rights reserved and copyright 2009. Use of image is restricted and prohibited without prior written permission.