The daily Astorian., September 07, 2019, WEEKEND EDITION, Image 9

B1
Glimpsing Oregon’s farthest reaches
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Jonathan Williams
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THE ASTORIAN • SATURDAY, SEPT. 7, 2019 • B1
Joseph and Wallowa
Lake provide artistic
fl are in the old-west
By AARON BRENIMAN
he quiet, nestled jewels of n ortheastern Oregon could fi ll a
book. And they do. But I tend to prefer the satisfaction of
self-guided exploration.
Here you’ll fi nd some of the nicest people you’ll meet any-
where around. There’s something about the parts of this state
where drivers still say “hello” with a casual wave.
I’ve been getting out there every year for the past few years,
and only see that frequency increasing as my heart’s desire grows.
T
Joseph is only about 420 miles and a seven-hour drive from the
North Coast, but these reaches aren’t for everyone. Life is slow,
and nightlife non existent. Most of everything is closed on Sun-
days. But there’s a simplicity of pace here and a quiet that draws
my heart.
In town
Named for Nez Perce leader Chief Joseph in 1880, Joseph has
recently been transformed into an art mecca. Be sure to visit Val-
ley Bronze’s Gallery & Foundry. The gallery on Main Street is
Sun seekers
paddle on
Wallowa Lake.
THE ASTORIAN • SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2019
Aaron Breniman
open to the public and holds regular hours, but to visit the foundry
you’ll need a reservation. Cost is $15 per person.
Don’t miss the Josephy Center for Arts & Culture, billed as the
“gathering place for artists in Wallowa County.” The most recent
exhibit — titled “A River Runs Through Us: The Art and Words
of the Lostine” — celebrates the nearby Lostine River interpreted
by local artists.
See Joseph, Page B2