A Year of Artistic Journey: Oregon’s Creative Canvas Unveiled

Creating a narrative for Oregon Art Beat requires several days of filming followed by additional editing days. It is through this method that we start to discern the subtle trajectories of an artist’s path, comprehending the importance of their creations.

The creatives we encountered this year were open-handed in sharing their experiences with us — spanning contemporary dance and photography, to artworks influenced by childhood in Cuba, to murals encapsulating the spirit of Oregon living.

We also recall artists we lost this year, such as Eunice Parsons and Tom Spanbauer, notable figures in the artistic realm, whose talents continue to impact emerging generations of artists and writers.

The insights we gather from 2024 include the artists’ commitment to their craft and a dedication to fostering a communal experience through it. As ever, we are privileged that Oregon’s artists choose to share their narratives with us.

On a brisk morning in December, I accompanied photographer Brendon Burton for an extensive drive along Highway 19, close to Condon, Oregon. Brendon captures evocative images of desolate houses and stark rural vistas. I relished witnessing the sense of curiosity he brings to every new site, seeking the shot that conveys the emotions left behind in these vacant spaces. At our final visit, at a turn-of-the-century farmhouse, it began to snow. Those scenes became some of my favorites from the narrative, observing Brendon diligently at work as the snow softly enveloped him.

I was captivated by Andy Akiho’s exceptional talent and modesty. We devoted half a day to capturing him creating music at his preferred café, and he never once mentioned that he had just received three Grammy nominations the previous day! I came across that news later on after our shoot.

One of the most unforgettable stories from 2024 was watching Eugene muralist Liza Mana Burns animate her beautiful artworks in her studio. Her vivid and intricate murals invite audiences to pause and examine the details, where the true enchantment resides. It was such a joy to share her narrative about what it entails to be a professional artist and mother.

Family often becomes a secondary element in professional biographies, but not for Dani Rowe, the artistic head of Oregon Ballet Theatre. She acknowledges her two young daughters as a profound source of artistic inspiration. She prizes their honest, unfiltered perspectives on concepts, music, and movement. It was delightful to film Dani and her daughters during their playful chaos. She mentions that same energy flows into the studio, where she promotes a collaborative, organic approach to choreography. It’s a breath of fresh air to witness her proudly blend both career and family.

In April of this year, I commenced production on two Art Beat narratives based in Hood River: Nancy Houfek Brown and Amirra Malak. I opted to film that month as late April/early May marks the onset of vibrant spring flowers, and I aimed to capture the picturesque splendor of the Columbia Gorge. The visuals would aid in narrating the stories both Nancy and Amirra shared, describing how the natural beauty of the gorge influences their artistic expressions, which are distinct from each other: Nancy produces geometric abstractions of landscapes whereas Amirra develops installations of ‘liminal spaces’ inspired by water, light, and ancient Egyptian textiles.

I dedicated a week in Hood River capturing footage. At the conclusion of the very first shooting day, my crew and I ascended to Rowena Crest to capture scenic views. Rowena Crest is among the sites Nancy adores to paint. Upon our arrival, it was “golden hour” — the sun was positioned low in the sky and was casting a golden glow over that part of the world for approximately 45 seconds. I had adeptly timed our production to align with the blossoming of early spring, but nothing could have prepared me for the breathtaking beauty we witnessed.

The balsam blossoms were in vibrant bloom and when bathed in that golden radiance, they seemed electrified.

My cinematographer, Brooke Herbert, along with sound recordist, Zack Carver-Gustin, and I were captivated. We kept exclaiming, “it’s like Oz! It’s like Oz!” Brooke indulged in the visuals through her camera. Standing between the tangible world and what we perceived through the lens, we collectively recognized we were creating art too — for Art Beat. Over my 27 years of filmmaking, I have rarely captured such a stunning aspect of our planet. It’s no surprise that artists draw inspiration from the Gorge. It is simultaneously enchanting and authentic.

The most enjoyable time I had this year without a doubt was filming the Oregon Country Fair project. The shoot presented difficulties with the heat, dust, and fluctuating light between glaring sunshine and deep shadows. Nonetheless, it was exhilarating and captivating to capture the diverse artists, musicians, and culture of the fair. The highlight was the camaraderie shared with my friends and colleagues from OPB during the filming and in the evenings at our communal house.

Join us in 2025 for our exclusive one-hour documentary on the history and influence of the Oregon Country Fair, debuting July 10, 2025.