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About The Siuslaw news. (Florence, Lane County, Or.) 1960-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 23, 2019)
10A | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2019 | SIUSLAW NEWS ART from page 1A art in Florence is Harlen Springer. Springer is the Chairperson for the PAC and has been perhaps the leading voice articulating the case for a robust public art program. Springer has spoken on multiple occa- sions to both the city coun- cil and the public about the methodology and goals of the PAC. He has also been a staunch defender of the benefits of a strong public art program, primarily because he believes it is an economic multiplier. The time and effort Springer spent over the last decade sharing his passion for the arts has drawn the attention of the state gov- ernment. Recently, Springer was recognized for his advocacy of public art in the region with an appoint- ment by Gov. Kate Brown to the Oregon Arts Commission (OAC). “Since his retirement, Harlen has devoted his time and significant business acumen to the development of the Florence arts com- munity,” said Commission Chair Anne Taylor. “We are incredibly grateful to him and fortunate to enlist his energy in our statewide effort to enrich the lives of Oregonians through the arts.” Springer met earlier this week with the Siuslaw News to discuss his appointment and what he hopes to con- tribute to the work done by the OAC. “I will be one of nine commissioners that are appointed by the governor throughout the state and we are the primary advocacy group for the arts and cul- ture within the state,” Springer said. “We have a lot of programs like Arts Learning Program for youth … and one of our BE IN THE primary responsibilities is grants. We give out some $4 million in grants to support art and artists across the state.” The OAC is tasked with supporting the creation and distribution of all genres of art using grants, special ini- tiatives and other services. only aesthetic but an eco- nomic driver for the Florence community. “That’s one of the key things the OAC believes and it’s in their mission statement. It’s about having the arts be a part of the eco- nomic vitality of Oregon and that’s what I’ve tried to “We want to thank Harlen, for [his] dedication. Not only to our community but to the state of Oregon.” —Florence Mayor Joe Henry The OAC’s mission state- ment is brief but direct: “To enhance the quality of life for all Oregonians through the arts by stimulating cre- ativity, leadership and eco- nomic vitality.” In his capacity as chair- person of PAC, Springer has worked with several other artistic organizations. His work researching what other municipalities have done when establishing a successful public art pres- ence has been broadly based. This personal connection to others in the art commu- nity was one of the key fac- tors that led to Springer’s appointment. “I’ve gotten to know a few of the commissioners from when I started work- ing with FRAA and also with PAC because I have asked them for information and for resources. In fact, we have gotten a grant from the Oregon Arts Commission at FRAA,” Springer said. The Public Art Committee was formed in 2015 and has been involved with the development of the city’s policies regarding art since that time. Springer has been at the forefront of championing art in all its forms. He said he believes that art is not do here as well,” he said. Springer’s leadership position at PAC, and previ- ously as a founding mem- ber of FRAA, has placed him in a position where he can help to shape the devel- opment and placement of art in Florence, in addition to the state’s permanent art collection. This high-profile appointment has come at a time when the relationship between the Florence City Council and PAC has begun to heal. This improvement in the relationship was evi- denced by the moment of recognition awarded Springer at last Monday’s meeting. Mayor Joe Henry, who has at times clashed with Springer over policy and priorities related to public art, was clear in his appreci- ation of the work done by Springer during a special recognition given during Monday’s meeting. “Harlen has been appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission by Gov. Kate Brown. I know this is big deal because I looked at my resume and I have not been appointed to anything by Governor Brown,” Henry said with a grin. “With that in mind, we want to thank you, Harlen, for your dedi- cation. Not only to our & W O N K H! G U DO SAVE SOME Subscribe or renew for one year & receive a $ 10 GIFT Certifi cate* to Domino’s Pizza Offer expires November 30, 2019 ! o b m o c s i h t p u r e d or community but to the state of Oregon.” Springer thanked Henry while audience members applauded the mayor’s comments. When asked what the appointment meant to him, Springer paused and was clearly moved by the news. “I am humbled, honored and excited because it’s a chance to do what I really want to do — which is advocate for the arts and their place as not only an aesthetic addition to a com- munity but an economic driver as well,” Springer said. According to the OAC website there more than 2,400 works of art in its col- lection. These include drawings, paintings, mixed media, photography, original prints, sculpture, ceramics, glass, mosaics, murals and textiles. More than 8,000 artists are represented in the col- lection and the work pro- duced has been site specific in some instances and mobile in others. The OAC is supported with general funds appro- priated by the Oregon legis- lature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at www.oregonarts commission.org. FALL IS HERE! Are your boots ready? PICK-UP & DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE AT FLORENCE SHIPPING SOLUTIONS 2006 HWY 101, FLORENCE Skilled craftsmen repairing and renewing your favorite boots, shoes, belts, wallets, luggage, handbags and more. 541.683.4115 | | BURCHSSHOES.COM Burch’s Oakway 16 Oakway Ctr, Eugene 1 CLUB ROAD, EUGENE A weekly roundup of shopping, savings and doings around town. 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