Sisters hosts Oregon art educators

Sisters High School played host to over 100 art enthusiasts - most of them teachers - from all over the state October 10.

The annual Oregon Art Education Association fall conference was organized by Barb Williams of Madras, Lenice Smith of Burns, and Sisters' art teacher Mike Baynes.

Those who attended participated in various workshops including such areas as animation, computer-assisted art, painting, and drawing.

"The week leading up to it was stressful," said Mike Baynes, who in addition to organizing and hosting this major event was also busy selling his artwork and the community Harvest Fair.

"But it turned out to be a huge success," he said.

"The people who came here were very impressed with our school," Baynes noted.

"Many of them approached me and told me how lucky I was to teach here."

As artists, many of the conference participants were able to fully appreciate the beauty Sisters' surroundings as well as the school.

The visitors were impressed by the array of artwork displayed around the school and by the students who respect it.

"Art has become very popular among Sisters students and each year I am surprised by the quality work that is created," Baynes said.

The addition of a new middle school increases the venues for students to display their work.

"I invite every member of the community to come tour the schools' artwork, and I think you'll be delighted," Baynes said