The Shortcut - Events in Oregon

Our words shape who we are. This dynamic Art Quilt exhibition features SAQA Oregon artists who explore the power of verbal communication through expressive textile works. Each quilt speaks in its own voice, sharing personal stories, common experiences, and universal truths. Together, these works invite viewers to pause and reflect on the lasting power of words and the ways communication shapes our lives.

According to the Art Quilt Association club definition, “An art quilt is an original exploration of a concept or idea rather than the handing down of a ‘pattern’. It experiments with textile manipulation, color, texture and/or a diversity of mixed media. An Art Quilt often pushes quilt world boundaries. An Art Quilt should consist predominantly of fiber or a fiber-like material with one or multiple layers which are held together with stitches or piercing of the layers.”

Juror Irene Roderick explained “For this exhibition, artists were invited to explore the impact of verbal interaction on their lives—the importance of communication with each other, with our world, with our pasts, and with our futures. I loved reading the statements and the stories with each quilt, giving me an insight into the artist’s concept of how we address the subject of interaction between each other and nature. As I spent time with these quilts, I began to see themes emerge: Many of the quilts are based on advice. Some reflect on the importance of wisdom passed between the generations: from grandparents, parents, and even grandchildren. Others recall advice prompting a move to rebel and lead in a new direction. Within this theme these quilts illustrate how advice can be a voice from the past that still resonates today. I believe this selected body of work will encourage viewers to reflect on the many ways we communicate—and on the power of that communication. As you view this exhibit, I hope you think about the impactful things you have been told, and the things you have told others. Take a moment to recall the advice, the slogans, the rhetoric, the secrets—all the words and expressions that shape our memories and influence our lives.”

Polly Plumb Productions (PPP) is a tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization that supports and promotes music and dance performances, and art exhibitions, in the Yachats area. Other PPP programs include the world famous Yachats Celtic Music Festival (http://yachatscelticmusicfestival.org), the Yachats Banner Project, and the Winter Solstice Bonfire. Visit pollyplumb.org. Collectors note, some of the pieces on display may be available for purchase.

A proposal to create a “Watersheds Bill of Rights” has qualified for the Lane County ballot to be voted on this May. Measure 20-373 aims to give watersheds, ecosystems and wildlife the right to “naturally exist, flourish, regenerate and evolve." It would also grant people the right to clean and affordable water. Under this proposal, a person could sue a business, corporation or government for infringing on these rights.

This ballot proposal raises important philosophical questions about our relationship to the environment and whether we have certain obligations to be stewards of the natural world. Do watersheds, for example, have “an inherent right to exist, flourish, regenerate and naturally evolve for their own sake”? Or should the concept of inherent rights only be applied to humans – as in the right to life, liberty and justice? What should be done when the rights of watersheds collide with the rights of property owners and corporations who impact these watersheds?

To help us understand the concept of “rights of nature”, we will be joined by Craig Kauffman, Professor of Political Science at the U.O. Come join in this timely discussion linking civic action with environmental ethics.

The board of Lane County commissioners is the core legislative and administrative body for county government. Commissioners set policy (including property tax rates), manage large budgets, oversee county operations like roads and public health, and control contracts and land use. Their power is limited by state law, which defines their authority. All candidates for contested positions were invited to participate in this program. Those who accepted the invitation represent East and West Lane County.

Candidates will provide opening and closing statements and answer questions from the moderator. These will include questions submitted by the live and online audiences, with the goal of providing a broad array of the interests expressed.

Note: All candidates were invited to participate. The candidates listed below have accepted the invitation. Ryan Ceniga advised he had a scheduling conflict. Jake Pelroy did not respond.

Speakers:
Heather Buch - District 5 County Commissioner

Thomas Hiura - District 1 County Commissioner

Bob Zybach - District 5 County Commissioner

Moderator:
Rebecca Hansen-White - joined the KLCC News Department in November 2023. She studied journalism and political science at Washington State University.

More Information: cityclubofeugene.org