Sisters Country artists set for plein air paint-out

Last updated 7/12/2011 at Noon

Sisters Country artists will be drawn to Indian Ford Meadow Preserve and surrounding properties on Saturday, July 23 to paint scenes of the community preserve, protected and owned by the Deschutes Land Trust.

The National Forest Foundation (NFF) and U.S. Forest Service will host the Third Annual Plein Air Paint-Out at this picturesque meadow, an important wildlife haven crossed by Indian Ford creek, a tributary of Whychus Creek.

The paint-out will help to offer an artists' eye and appreciation of the natural resources and beautiful landscapes near Sisters while bringing attention to the conservation and stewardship efforts on the Whychus Creek area and the Deschutes National Forest.

Plein air painting is an opportunity for artists to paint in the open air of the outdoors, inspired by nature and its stunning views. The paint-out is a timed competition, and artists will have four hours to complete and frame an original work on-site.

The resulting paintings are worth much more than a thousand words-communicating the beauty and the need to care for our cherished lands.

Under the Treasured Landscapes conservation campaign, the NFF has designated the Metolius River and Whychus Creek region as one of a handful of project sites in the country.

Plans over the next few years include continued watershed restoration to prepare for returning salmon and steelhead. Other projects will focus on recreational improvement projects to revitalize the area's natural systems and ensure quality outdoor experiences for visitors.

Sisters Art Works (204 W. Adams Ave.) will display the paint-out pieces from September 24 to October 6, with the opening following conservation volunteer opportunities on National Public Lands Day, Saturday, September 24. Also, be sure to look for Images of Indian Ford at the Sisters Harvest Faire on October 8-9.

All artists interested in participating may contact Karly Hedrick at 541-549-0251 or

[email protected] A youth paint-out and class will be offered through Sisters Park & Recreation District. Call Sisters Park & Recreation District at 541-549-2091 for more information on the youth paint-out.