In the early 70s, you can say Bend was a cultural desert and residents had to travel to take in the arts. A small group of spunky young moms including Sue Hollern and Jody Ward decided to take action, finding a way to bring art to Bend. They did just that, starting with art shows and classes.
Their dream grew and morphed into Art in Public Places’ vision:
“Give the Bend community public art in expansive, mindful and encompassing ways.”
Today, the board of directors of AiPP is comprised of several longstanding Bend residents, including Sue Hollern, Jody Ward, Cristy Lanfri, René Mitchell, Romy Mortensen, Sandy Cummings and Dana Whitelaw. Marcelene Trujillo serves as the Project Coordinator.
We welcome you to DONATE to help with AiPP’s mission of placing more public art in Bend.
Our Goals and Vision
Art in Public Places is a nonprofit organization that enriches the experience of the beautiful high desert community of Bend, Oregon for locals and visitors alike by bringing permanent, world class art installations to public spaces throughout the city.
The public art collection is funded by the Bend Foundation and numerous private donors in our community. The work of art is then gifted to the City of Bend, Bend Parks & Recreation District, Deschutes Public Library and other nonprofits. AiPP is committed to intentionally growing Bend’s collection of public art, bringing art to all in our community.
The Selection Process
AiPP’s Call to Artists are open to professional artists residing in the western and southwest regions of the United States who demonstrate prior experience with public art projects, including familiarity with site-specific design and materials suitable for public outdoor settings. On occasion AiPP does a national or local Call to Artists.
Each piece of art commissioned by AiPP undergoes an extensive review process to determine its ability to enhance a particular natural landscape or enliven a specific public space, including:
Artistic Excellence
Interactivity
Innovative Qualities
Originality
Durability
Community Participation
The Bend community is invited to view the design renderings of each finalist and provide input on their favorites, both online and within select locations in town.
