Bend Oregon artist Shelli Walters creates Old Mill District's 2019-2020 winter artwork
Local mixed-media painter creates textured, intricate piece that is reflective of the warmth and charm of Central Oregon
I wanted to portray the warmth and charm of winter in the Old Mill District.”
BEND, OR, UNITED STATES, November 16, 2019 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Old Mill District1 commissioned local artist Shelli Walters3 to create its annual winter artwork, which is featured on annual holiday ornaments, the backdrop for SantaLand, and on banners, kiosks, billboards and in printed pieces throughout Central Oregon. Walters created the original piece by layering paint and collage, a process she says reflects the layers of life. — Shelli Walters, artist
“I wanted to portray the warmth and charm of winter in the Old Mill District,” says Walters, a lifelong Oregonian who moved to Bend from Seaside 40 years ago. “Summer’s easy. Winter’s tougher. It’s not as vibrant outside and I was intrigued by that challenge, bringing forth the color and beauty and magic that exists in the winter.”
Inspiration for the piece came from Walters own deep history living in the area, her love of the outdoors and her adventurous spirit. The composition captures the natural beauty of the region reflected in the golden tones of sunset, as well as a nod to the area’s timber history. She included elements in the collage such as music sheets and upcycled Old Mill District guide pages to create depth and texture. The finished piece features the snow-capped mountains, a majestic elk and the iconic Old Mill District smokestacks.
A graphic designer for more than 25 years, Walters began pursuing art full time last year. In addition to curating the Old Mill District’s annual winter theme, Walters has had solo shows at Tumalo Art Company and Spokane’s Marmot Art Space in 2019 and was part of a group show highlighting artists from the western part of the United States at the Favell Museum in Klamath Falls. She also created the foundational art piece for the Deschutes Children’s Foundation’s signature fundraising event, Ripples. Walters is currently working on signature artwork for the Deschutes River Conservancy’s annual RiverFeast dinner and auction in April.
The original artwork will be on display at Tumalo Art Co. from November 20 through the end of the season. A limited amount of the exclusive holiday ornaments will be available for purchase at the art gallery and SantaLand after Thanksgiving.
About the Old Mill District
One of the Pacific Northwest’s most distinctive and dynamic mixed-use developments, the Old Mill District is located on 270 acres that formerly housed one of the largest sawmill operations in the world. The rich history of the land is coupled with spectacular mountain views, scenic river vistas, and an extensive trail system to enjoy the outdoors. More than 55 local, regional and national retailers and businesses call the Old Mill District home. The Old Mill District – Bend’s most unique shopping, dining, living, and entertainment experience. www.oldmilldistrict.com
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Noelle Fredland
Old Mill District
+1 541-815-3951
email us here
1 http://www.oldmilldistrict.com
2 https://www.oldmilldistrict.com/bend-oregon-events/
3 https://www.shelliwaltersstudio.com/