Sisters Folk Festival unveils 2013 poster

The Sisters Folk Festival has unveiled the 2013 poster image, as well as the initial lineup for the annual September event.

This year's image is the latest in the series artist Dennis McGregor calls "Local Treasures."

Since 2005, McGregor has chosen images of folks that live and work in Sisters Country as musicians and artists, to honor the tradition growing here of great songwriters and heroic folk.

"That term came about years ago when I got tired of looking for source material or photos of musicians that I could paint," said McGregor from his studio in Sisters. "I realized that I was surrounded by musicians right here in Sisters who would pose for me. Why not tip our hat to locals who do so much behind the scenes to help make this a musical community? Let our poster feature the unsung heroes!"

The image this year is a touching view of Jaimee Simundson, high school Americana Project student, teaching a younger student the age-old craft of guitar-playing, music-making, and songwriting. This year's poster image pays tribute to Sisters' own Americana Project, which has been in the schools in Sisters since 2000.

"Americana music has been in our schools long enough that students who have grown up with it are now passing it on to a new generation of kids," said McGregor. "Our garden is bearing fruit, and it's pretty sweet."

The first 18 acts have been confirmed for the festival, which runs September 6-8.

The performers this year include New Orleans-based Jon Cleary & the Philthy Phew, who will bring their funk and R&B to the festival stages, as will Ryan Montbleau Band, Lake Street Dive, Grammy-nominated John Fullbright, and the hilarious and poignant songs of Cheryl Wheeler. Performing throughout the weekend will also be Hurray for the Riff Raff, Joshua James, the Shook Twins, The White Buffalo, California Honeydrops, and Shinyribs to name a few.

"The beauty of the festival is that we love to bring great artists to Sisters and expose our audience to some of the most dynamic and entertaining music anywhere, and feature them in the best light possible," said festival director Brad Tisdel.

Sponsorships are still available for the event, and tickets are on sale now. Last year the event sold out and current sales are very brisk, so organizers suggest getting your tickets while they're available. For more information about Sisters Folk Festival or to buy tickets for the festival, visit www.sistersfolkfestival.orgor call 541-549-4979.