Sisters gets set to celebrate the arts

Sisters is set to launch its annual celebration of the arts with a parade, an art stroll, and a fundraising auction.

My Own Two Hands, the annual fundraiser for Sisters Folk Festival's educational outreach programs, begins on April 11, with a parade, art stroll, and performing arts evening at The Belfry. This year's Parade & Rally will be "detoured" due to road construction in downtown Sisters. Students, artists, musicians and others will parade their artwork in the area of City Hall and the Sisters School District administration building.

Each of the students in grades K-5 have created a parade-ready art project based on the theme, "From Where I Stand." Participation in the parade and rally is free and open to the public. Registration to be a participant is available from the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce at 291 E. Main Ave. or by emailing [email protected] Registrations must be submitted by April 9.

The performing arts evening, April 11, will be held at The Belfry, 302 W. Main Ave. from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Three Creeks Brewing Co. will be providing a pasta-bar meal; Americana Project music students will be performing with local professional musicians, and student artwork will be on display. Dinner and music is $10, music only is $5.

On Saturday, April 12, Ponderosa Forge and Ironworks will be transformed into a party venue like no other. Forge owner Jeff Wester and his crew will rearrange the working forge to accommodate over 350 guests. The event is catered by Tate & Tate Catering of Redmond, wine will be provided by Lange Winery, and beer will be supplied by Deschutes Brewery. Abbajay Automated Control Systems is supplying screens for great views of the auction items, while auctioneer Dennis Turmon orchestrates the auction.

"The quality of the art is outstanding," said Katy Yoder, Sisters Folk Festival (SFF) development director. "It's another example of the generosity and talent that makes Sisters such a great place to live and educate our youth.

"This is not your typical fundraiser," said Yoder. "The venue, the music and the vibe draws guests from across Oregon and beyond."

Entertainment is provided by The Shanghai Woolies, an eight-piece ensemble bringing a taste of Duke Ellington and the swing of Benny Goodman to the dancing audience. The evening includes Americana Project students performing onstage, and volunteering in a variety of jobs.

"It's important that the students realize what it takes to put on an event like this," said Yoder.

For those unable to attend the auction on April 12, proxy bid sheets are available at the Art Stroll locations throughout town on Friday, or through the SFF office and website.

For more information about My Own Two Hands visit http://www.sistersfolkfestival.org/moth, call the SFF office at 541-549-4979, or email [email protected]