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About The nugget. (Sisters, Or.) 1994-current | View Entire Issue (March 2, 2016)
Wednesday, March 2, 2016 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon 5 Artist taps heritage, ‘connections’ Celebrating arts at annual SHS Coffeehouse By Jim cornelius News Editor Paige Bruguier is con- tributing one of the more unique art pieces to the My Own Two Hands (MOTH) art festival in May. The event is the primary fundraiser for the outreach programs of Sisters Folk Festival — pro- grams Bruguier says helped launch her on her path as an artist. Last week, the Sisters art- ist was completing a full-size tipi, painted in the traditional manner, at her studio in the Sisters Industrial Park. The finishing touch was hand- prints from various mem- bers of the community whom Bruguier wanted to honor for By charlie Kanzig Correspondent One of the hallmarks of Sisters School District is the focus and support for the arts, all of which were on display Monday evening, February 22, in the commons at Sisters High School. Bethany Gunnarson, visual arts teacher for Sisters Middle School and High School, co- directed the event with vocal music instructor Rick Johnson. The evening featured performances by the Sisters High School jazz choir, the high school band, and a num- ber of individuals from the Americana Project. Audience members relaxed in freshly made Adirondack chairs produced in this tri- mester’s Woods 1 class as they listened to the student performers. Student artwork displays intermixed with stations for face-painting, henna art and other experiential opportuni- ties for those in attendance. A silent auction including art- work from local artists served as a fundraiser for the arts department in addition to the ticket price. Guitars and ukuleles made by SHS students in the wood- shop’s luthier program, use- able works of art to be sure, caught the attention of many participants. “They are abso- lutely beautiful,” one passerby was heard to say. Tony Cosby, teacher of the guitar-building courses, said, “I think that Sisters is so art- oriented it is important, and natural, that we host events hang out with my dad in his canvas shop — bouncing in my Johnny Jump Up — as he sewed the yards and yards of canvas that would make one of these tipis.” Paige graduated from Sisters High School in 2006, after delving into the arts and participating in Sisters Folk Festival’s Americana Project. After traveling Europe and living and working in Portland, she decided to return to Sisters, where she is devoting her considerable artistic skills to crafting tipis, premium leather bags and home décor items. For more information email Paige Bruguier at paigebruguier@gmail.com. photo by izaaK Kanzig hannah ceciliani performed at the ShS coffeehouse. like this so that everyone who is interested can come and see what the students are doing in our arts programs.” Gunnarson says the event is more of a celebration for the students than a way to raise funds, but she felt pleased with the support the event pro- vided for the department. She estimated that the event brought in just over $1,000, which will go toward the annual senior scholarships as well as helping support the programs. Sisters Coffee Company supplied the hot beverages, while the SHS culinary class, taught by TR McCrystal, pro- vided home-baked cookies. “It’s a time for us to cel- ebrate the arts with the com- munity,” said Gunnarson. “We think of it as an art party.” We appreciate you, Sisters! Locals’ Menu $8.99-$9.99 Sunday thru Th ursday, 3 p.m. to close 2015 Trip Advisor® Certifi cate of Excellence www.LosAgavesSisters.com www.LosA MEXICAN GRILL their contributions to the arts. The handprints represent the theme of MOTH 2016: Connections. “For me, connections are the people who make up the community,” Bruguier said. “I just wanted to bring people in and honor them. It’s kind of a thank-you to them for pushing me in the direction of being creative.” Paige’s first push in that direction came early. “I was born on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in northeast Montana,” she recalled. “My dad, John Bruguier, who has taught me this skill, was inspired by Chief Robert Fourstar of the Redbottom Clan. Before I could walk, I would literally 541-549-0777 219 E. Cascade Ave. photo by JiM Cornelius Paige Bruguier has returned to Sisters to pursue her art. this tipi will be auctioned at My own two hands. Serving Central Oregon & Beyond DON’S TOWN & COUNTRY SHUTTLE Shutt le in Style! Airport Door-to-Door Dinner Parties Ski, Hike, Fish, Bike, Camp Brew Pubs Doctor’s Appointments New, Eco-Friendly Van Pet-Friendly Non-Smoking Competitive Rates Buy 10 rides, 11th ride is FREE! Offer valid through 9/30/16. Call 541-647-2281 See our online Sisters Saver Coupon at www.nuggetnews.com for other great deals! Locally Owned & Operated!