The InstigatorThe year is coming to a close, but there’s still plenty to do! Here’s what’s happening in the month ahead…
December 1 through 3
Gala of Trees returns. The annual holiday tree tour and online auction supporting Family Building Blocks take place December 1 through 3, culminating with a live event at Salem Convention Center. Tickets for the live event are available until Nov 30. Tour the trees at local businesses, and bid on the online auction Dec 1-2. Click here for more information.
December 1
Explore and shop local goods during the Evening Market at The Yard Food Park 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 1 at 4106 State St.
Author Signing. Meet author Fata Ariu Levi and hear him speak about his latest book, Navigators: Forging a Matriarchal Culture in Polynesia, 5:45 p.m. December 1 in the Dye Room at Willamette Heritage Center. Copies of the book will be available for sale. Masks are required. Space is limited, so please RSVP to info@salemmulticultural.org.
December 1 and 6
Elsinore Theatre’s Holiday Film Series presents National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), the John Hughes classic about the Griswold family’s big family Christmas that predictably turns into a big disaster. Plus, pop into Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa himself! He will be in attendance an hour prior to the show and visits are included with your ticket. Catch the show 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 1 and Monday, Dec 6, at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $10 (age 12 and younger are free with paid adult. Limit 2 children per paid ticket.) Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
December 2
Ed Bennett Quintet will perform at 7 p.m. Dec 2, at Christo’s Pizzeria & Lounge. Ed has long been considered one of the West Coast’s premiere string bass players. Since his arrival in 1990, he has become an acoustical force in the Portland jazz community. His quintet features Paul Mazzio-trumpet, Tim Willcox-tenor sax, Steve Christofferson-piano, and Tim Rap-drums. The fresh sounds of Bennett’s original compositions are be-bop influenced, but unique with twists in their harmonic progressions and unusual forms.
December 2 and 3
Take in Holidays in Hudson Concert 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec 2 and Friday, Dec 3, in Hudson Hall at Willamette University. The concert features Willamette’s Chamber Choir and Voce, performing timeless works from the choral cannon, including excerpts from Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols, alongside some more familiar holiday tunes. Admission is $10. For more information, click here.
December 3
Pentacle Theatre presents It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, by Joe Landry, directed by Debbie Neel. A celebration of the holiday season, the theatre transforms into a 1946 radio studio where an ensemble of actors gathers to perform a live broadcast of It’s a Wonderful Life, the story of idealist George Bailey, who considers his future on a fateful Christmas Eve. Clarence, a guardian angel, helps George realize how different the world would be if he’d never been born. Seven actors bring more than 40 different characters to life in front of a “live studio audience” of Pentacle ticketholders. Two Foley artists create sound effects that help tell the tale of this beloved holiday classic. Learn more in our Press Play Salem feature story — Coming soon!
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec 3 – Saturday, Dec 18 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec 5 and 12. The Thursday, Dec 9 performance will be interpreted by a team of certified ASL interpreters.
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW. (Off Highway 22 about 6 miles west of downtown Salem.)
Cost: $25 for general admission seating. Frontline healthcare workers and people who hold an Oregon Trail Card are eligible for a 50% discount. Doors open one hour before curtain to allow extra time for socially distanced seating. Purchase tickets here. NOTE: All audience members must provide proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before the performance and everyone must wear a mask at all times while at Pentacle Theatre. Audience seating is limited to meet current social distancing rules and guidelines.
Leapin’ lizards! Enlightened Theatrics is wrapping its 2021 season with the feel-good Tony Award-winning musical Annie. The show, set in 1930s New York City, shares the adventures of Annie, who despite being abandoned on a New York City Orphanage doorstep where she now lives under the cruel watch of the group caretaker Miss Hannigan, leads with positivity. Learn more in our Press Play Salem feature story — Coming soon!
When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Dec 3 through 12. There is a $10 preview show Thursday, December 2.
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre, 187 High St NE
Cost: $25. Purchase online at enlightenedtheatrics.org, by calling 503-585-3427, or at the office in Suite 209 at 187 High St NE.
The First Friday Art Walk aims to promote local businesses, emerging artists and engagement with our downtown community. Taking place from 5 to 8 p.m. on the first Friday of every month, it is a free, leisurely opportunity to explore the heart of Salem and discover new shops, artwork, crafters and more. Each month includes a variety of different businesses offering specials, art to view, activities and more. Reinforcing the encouragement of participation, there is also a raffle. To take part, pick up a passport from any of the participating businesses and collect stamps from 12 locations. Then turn in your completed passport to enter a raffle to win a prize (usually a basket overflowing with items from all the participating businesses). Find all the details at facebook.com/SalemArtWalk
Confluence LGBT Chorus presents Joy 7:30 p.m. Friday, December 3, at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 700 Marion St. NE. Tickets are $15; $12 for seniors and students. Seating is limited; Proof of vaccination is required. Learn more and purchase online at confluencelgbtchorus.org
December 3-31
Organized by Artists in Action (AiA), Something Red is a unique juried exhibit and sale featuring work from emerging and professional artists working in an array of styles and mediums all that include the color red. Patrons can view everything from paintings in oil, acrylics and watercolor to mixed media, photography, ceramics, fiber art and more. The opening night reception is part of the Dec 3 First Friday Art Walk from 5 to 8 p.m., with an awards ceremony at 6 p.m.
Explore the exhibit December 3 through 31, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, at Elsinore Framing and Fine Art Gallery, 444 Ferry St SE. Masks are required, as well as social distancing. For more information, visit artistsinaction.org.
December 4
Deepwood Museum & Gardens hosts a Holiday Open House 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4 at 1116 Mission St SE. Hand-made ornaments hang from trees scattered throughout the home, reminiscent of how the Victorians would have decorated for the holidays. Say hello to Santa Claus in the Solarium, and be greeted by hosts and hostesses dressed in Victorian attire within the home. Please remember masks will be required. This event is free to the public.
Annual Star Trees Lighting and Family Holiday Concert takes place Saturday, Dec 4, at Willamette University. See the Star Trees light up at 7 p.m. and enjoy music, a photo booth, cocoa, and cookie decorating kits to take home. The Family Holiday Concert, featuring the University Chamber Orchestra, will follow at 7:45 p.m. in Hudson Hall, Mary Stuart Rogers Music Center. There will be coat and warm clothing donations collected for the Union Gospel Mission. All attendees will be required to show proof of vaccination and wear a mask in order to attend the Family Holiday Concert. All attendees, regardless of vaccination status, will be required to wear a mask in order to view the in-person lighting of the Star Trees. If you can’t make it in person, links to join the celebrations online will be added prior to December 4, so keep an eye on https://willamette.edu/events/celebrations/holiday-lighting/index.html
Laugh out loud with the My Name is NOT Mom comedy tour 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec 4 at the Elsinore Theatre. My Name is NOT Mom is a hilarious journey through motherhood with internet sensations Tiffany Jenkins, Meredith Masony and Dena Blizzard. Tickets are $39 – $69; VIP Meet & Greet available for $103. Purchase tickets at www.elsinoretheatre.com
Celebrate the Spirit of the Holidays 3 p.m. Dec 4, at The Yard Food Park. Oregon Spirit Chorus hosts this holiday performance, where you can enjoy the wonderful sounds of acapella harmonies while snacking on a tasty meal from one of the many choices of food trucks.
Support small businesses with wine in hand at the Makers Market. The Ankeny Barrel Room patio will be showcasing local makers who create pottery, macrame, candles, metal and glass art, dog treats and Ankeny cork art, grapevine wreaths, and wine barrel ring wreaths. Explore it 12 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec 4 at Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Dr S, ankenyvineyard.com
The Handmade Market is back. Brought to you by the Salem Etsy Team, this show truly celebrates the handmade aspect of Salem’s maker scene. With more than 100 vendor booths offering a wide variety of goods including jewelry, bath and body products, original art, handcrafted fashions, paper crafts, home décor and more. Free admission and parking. See it all from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec 4 in Jackman Long building at the Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE, facebook.com/SalemEtsyTeam
December 4-5
The Salem Philharmonia Orchestra presents Pure Romanticism live in concert 7 p.m. December 4 and 3 p.m. December 5, at East Salem Community Center, 1850 45th Ave NE. Conducted by Artistic Director, Travis Hatton, these concerts begin with Alexander Borodin’s “In the Steppes of Central Asia”, followed by Max Bruch’s “Violin Concerto #1,” featuring world-class soloist, Anthea Kreston, and finishing with Robert Schumann’s “Symphony #3” — the “Rhenish Symphony.” There will be a pre-concert talk with Maestro Hatton at 6:15pm on Saturday and 2:15pm on Sunday. Tickets are $20 adult, $18 student/senior and free for children 17 and younger. Purchase online at https://www.salemphil.org/buy-tickets/ or at the door on concert day.
December 4 and 18
A small handful of local artists will share their lovingly-made-by-hand goods at the Art Market pop-up. Great opportunity to find a unique gift or treat yourself. Happening 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Dec 4 and 18 at Ike Box, 299 Cottage St NE
December 5
Lace-up your sneakers for the TR Melton Memorial Race for the Rest of Us at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec 5 at f/Stop Fitzgerald’s Public House, 335 Grove St. NE. The grueling (not really) 0.05-mile foot race has a $40 ($60 for two people) buy-in that gets you a runner’s bib, a custom-made 0.05 sticker, donuts and beer midway through the race and the overwhelming joy of participating. Click here to sign up. Race proceeds go directly to charities supported by Tips for Tots, which include Saint Francis Shelter, Family Building Blocks and Salem Angels.
Tips for Tots is an annual fundraising effort that helps provide for families who are facing hardships during the holiday season, which takes place in early December at local businesses throughout the community. Find participating locations at facebook.com/tipsfortotssalem.
Join or watch the Car Menorah Parade Sunday, Dec 5. The event begins at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 1370 Crowley Ave SE, (leaving at 4 p.m.) and will parade through the streets of Salem, ending at the large Menorah downtown where it will then be lit. A limited number of cars can participate in the parade so contact the center. Click here for information.
Experience The Michael Allen Harrison Holiday Special 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Elsinore Theatre. As an iconic artist, Harrison is known for his magical piano solo performances and recordings, his upbeat sound with his band and his work with inspiring vocalist Julianne Johnson. Tickets are $29-$39 Adult; $17 Child (12 and younger) $5 more on day of show.
The 2021-22 Evensong Concert Series continues at 4 p.m. on December 5 with Advent Music for Voice, Instruments, and Organ. Dr. Paul Klemme will accompany on the organ. Advent carols and songs of the season will be heard including a setting of “Savior of the Nations, Come” for chamber orchestra and voice by Michael Altenburg. Guest musicians include Roxanne Shoemaker, Flutist; Mitch Iimori, Oboist; Allison Knotts, Vocalist; Esther Shim, Violinist; Caius Oprea, Violinist; Karen Vincent, Violist; and Annabeth Shirley, Cellist. The concert will be in person at St. Paul’s with facemasks required and live-streamed on YouTube. Click here for more information.
Bright Spot Artist Pop-Up is an opportunity to shop small, shop local, shop the artists, makers and crafters thoughtfully curated by Windowsill. Stop in 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec 5 at Windowsill, 4910 Turner Road SE #100
December 8
Pick up a free copy to keep of the Salem Reads chosen title, A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 8 at Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St SE. The book is packaged with some special treats and crafts to enjoy as you prepare to explore the story, which is set between Japan and Canada. Limit: One per visitor. The book can also be purchased at Friends Book Store, Salem Book Bin, and Reader’s Guide. Watch for a feature story about Salem Reads in the upcoming editing of Press Play Salem.
See Mat and Savanna Shaw: The Joy of Christmas 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 8, at Elsinore Theatre. Mat and Savanna’s uplifting song choices and harmonies have inspired people the world over. They have a passion for using music for good – often supporting charities, good causes, and providing inspiration with their performances. Their goal is to share hope and spread joy through music. Tickets are $27 to $59 ($5 more on day of show). Purchase tickets online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
Ceili of the Valley Society hosts its Second Friday Ceili 7 p.m. Dec 10, at the VFW Hall. This month welcomes live music by Portland Celtic band Na Rosai and caller Geraldine Murray. There is a dance lesson at about 7:15, followed by live music from 8 to 11. No experience or partner is needed. And you don’t even need to dance — just go for a night of music! The event does require mask-wearing plus proof of full vaccination or a negative Covid test within 72 hours of the dance. Bring water. Cost is $10. Click here for more information.
December 10
Salem will “flip the switch” on the 2021 holiday season with the Annual Tree Lighting at 5:30 p.m. December 10 at Riverfront Park.
December 10-12
More than 250 vendors come together to offer handmade, handcrafted or homegrown products for the Salem Holiday Market. From gifts and decor to food and more, all products are juried to assure their handmade quality. The event also features Santa’s village and kids activities, a gingerbread house contest, tree decorating contest, pet adoptions and interactive robotic activities (offered by the Chemeketa Community College Robotics Program). It’s an opportunity for the whole family to explore. Free admission and parking. Three days to take it all in: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec 10; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec 11; and 10 am. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec 12 at Oregon State Fairgrounds, 2330 17th St NE, salemcommunitymarkets.com
December 10-17
Theatre 33 presents The Christmas Gift, written by Thomas Nabhan and directed by Elizabeth Helman. Fresh off snowboarding a black run, Ann finds herself in a strange place with a curious man pushing a shopping cart. Is this a prank, a nightmare, or absolute redemption? The Show features some notable local actors including Ed Schoaps as The Preacher, Ryan Carty as TV Man, Allison Saucy as The Woman, Tom Hewitt as The Homeless Man, Jeff Sanders as The Professor, Erica Towe as The Marketer and Sophia Brown as The Teenager. Learn more about the show in the feature story in Press Play Salem – coming soon!
When: 7 p.m. Dec 10, 11, 15, 16 and 17, and 2 p.m. Dec 12
Where: Putnam Studio at Pelton Theatre, Willamette University, 900 State St.
Cost: $15. Get tickets at theatre33.org
December 11
One Night Only Blast Off Vintage hosts a night of punk on Dec 11. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. The Folly will perform at 8, followed by Grenades at 9 and AOD at 10. All ages are welcome at this free show.
AUDITIONS: Pentacle Theatre is hosting Opening Auditions for Over the River and Through the Woods, a comedy by Joe DiPietro. Auditions take place at 1 p.m. Dec. 11 at Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave. NW. Located off Highway 22, about 6 miles west of downtown Salem. Find out about the roles and requirements here.
December 11 and 12
American Ballet Academy presents A Children’s Nutcracker benefiting Marion Polk Food Share. After 18 months of Zoom classes, outdoor performances, and pieced-together shows, dancers are more ready than ever to bring a true ballet to stage! This performance promises something for everyone to enjoy: adorable young dancers, accomplished advanced dancers, beautiful costumes, Tchaikovsky’s loved music and the holiday spirit… Live! Celebrate the Christmas tradition 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec 11 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12, at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $16 to $24. Purchase tickets online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
December 12
The Salem Youth Symphony presents a Winter Concert featuring Tchaikovsky Swan Lake Suite and Brahms Double Concerto for Violin & Cello in a minor 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12 at Rose Auditorium, South Salem High School. Learn more and get tickets at salemyouthsymphony.org
December 13
Elsinore Theatre’s Holiday Film Series presents Home Alone, the John Hughes classic about an eight-year-old troublemaker who must protect his house from a pair of burglars when he is accidentally left home alone by his family during Christmas vacation. Plus, pop into Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa himself! He will be in attendance an hour prior to the show and visits are included with your ticket. Catch the show at 2 and 7 p.m. Monday, Dec 13, at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $10 (age 12 and younger are free with paid adult. Limit 2 children per paid ticket.) Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
December 14
Enjoy Oregon Art Song composed by queer Oregon composers live in concert 7 p.m. December 14 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Salem (UUCS), 5090 Center St NE. Art song is vocal music compositions, usually for one voice accompanied by piano. The performance will feature Dr. Kit Abrahamson, baritone, and Stephanie Lynne Smith, piano. The centerpiece is “I Am He” a ten-song cycle by Evan C. Paul, originally for tenor, but transposed at Dr. Abrahamson’s request. Tickets are $20/$15 for students or seniors, with a discount for a series pass. Masks and proof of vaccination will be required at the door. Get tickets and learn more at uusalem.org/celebratingdiversity/
December 16
Tippy Toe Dance Studio presents A Winter’s Grimm. Watch the storybook come to life as the stage is transformed into a whimsical, wintery land of Brother’s Grimm fairy tales 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec 16 at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $12 to $18. Purchase tickets online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
December 17
Join the Owl Prowl 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec 17 at Minto-Brown Island Park. The night starts with an owl pellet dissection followed by a supervised walk in the full moonlight listening and watching for resident owls. Takes place rain or shine so be sure to dress for the weather. Pre-registration required. Sign up here. Questions? Call 503-588-6261.
December 18
Yuletide Festival is a thoughtful solution to your last-minute holiday shopping. Find gifts, decor and more created by local crafters and artists. Plus, we hear there will be carols, hot drinks and baked goods, too. Free admission. See it from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec 18 at Fordyce Farm, 7023 Sunnyview Road NE, fordycefarm.com
Minority Retort, the NW’s premier stand-up comedy showcase featuring Black and brown comedians, presents Keith Johnson 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec 18, at Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150.
Keith Johnson is a Los Angeles-based stand-up comedian that creates, acts and performs as a voice-over artist. He pushes boundaries, defines culture and relays his worldly point of view. Keith is smooth, smart and silly and creates a trusting, loose audience with uproarious laughter. Keith created the animated series ‘Darius’ and its behind-the-scenes counterpart ‘Who TF is Darius?’ and was featured on Kevin Hart’s ‘Hart of the City’ on Comedy Central.
The lineup will also feature Pedro Andrade, Imani Denae, Alyssa Yeoman and Jaren George.
Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door for this 21 and older event. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours prior to show is required on entry. Masks must be worn at all times in the venue when not actively eating or drinking, even if seated at a table.
Premiere Academy of Performing Arts presents the two-act ballet The Nutcracker, a holiday tradition with the magic of Sugarplum Fairy, and the sweet dreams of Clara, 12 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec 18, at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $18. Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
Holiday Crafts at the Carousel takes place 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec 18 at Salem’s Riverfront Carousel. There will be free activities offered throughout the day, with the opportunity to upgrade your visit by purchasing a Carousel Craft Pass for $10 that includes 5 carousel rides, choice of a cookie plate or mug to decorate and Make-Your-Own Hot Cocoa Mix. (While supplies last.) Learn more at www.salemcarousel.org
December 18-19
Watch The Room with special guest Greg Sesterom co-star of the film and author of The Disaster Artist. Johnny is a successful banker who lives happily in a San Francisco townhouse with his fiancée, Lisa. One day, inexplicably, she gets bored of him and decides to seduce Johnny’s best friend, Mark. From there, nothing will be the same again. A bona fide classic of midnight cinema, Tommy Wiseau’s misguided disasterpiece THE ROOM subverts the rules of filmmaking with a boundless enthusiasm that renders such mundanities as acting, screenwriting and cinematography utterly irrelevant. You will never see a football the same way again.
Screening includes a meet and greet, merch, pictures, autographs, a Q&A and live script reading with the audience. Two chances to take it all in: 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec 18 or 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec 19 at Salem Cinema. Cost is $20 in advance; $25 day of show.
After 18 months off their skates, Cherry City Roller Derby is getting back on the track. Take in the action during Wreck the Halls, a holiday-themed bout featuring a festively dressed collection of players, Saturday, Dec 18 at The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE. In addition to the bout, there will be a silent auction to help support the nonprofit league. Doors open at 6 p.m.; Bout at 7 p.m. Learn more and get tickets at cherrycityrollerderby.com.
December 19
Festival Chorale Oregon’s select ensemble, the Festival Carolers, will perform familiar and favorite Christmas songs during Sing We Now of Christmas 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec 19 at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $10. Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
Willamette Master Chorus Annual Holiday Concert takes place virtually 3 p.m. December 19. The repertoire is all holiday music featuring special guests Salem Academy Concert Choir with Kent Wilson, Conductor. The chorus will give appreciation to all medical front-line workers who have and continue to care for those dealing with covid-19. Watch the concert at the WMC YouTube channel.
December 19 to 23
Magic at the Mill returns December 19 through 23 at Willamette Heritage Center. Information to be announced. Keep an eye on www.willametteheritage.org
December 20
Elsinore Theatre’s Holiday Film Series presents It’s A Wonderful Life, the 1946 classic directed by Frank Capra about an angel sent to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. Plus, pop into Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa himself! He will be in attendance an hour prior to the show and visits are included with your ticket. Catch the show at 2 and 7 p.m. Monday, Dec 20. Tickets are $10 (age 12 and younger are free with paid adult. Limit 2 children per paid ticket.) Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
December 21 and 22
Elsinore Theatre’s Holiday Film Series presents White Christmas, the 1954 classic about a successful song-and-dance team who become romantically involved with a sister act and team up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general. Plus, pop into Santa’s workshop for a selfie with Santa himself! He will be in attendance an hour prior to the show and visits are included with your ticket. Catch the show at 2 and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec 21 and Wednesday, Dec 22, at the Elsinore Theatre. Tickets are $10 (age 12 and younger are free with paid adult. Limit 2 children per paid ticket.) Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
December 24
Salem Tuba Holiday returns to the Elsinore at 12 p.m. December 24. This annual tradition of musical merriment features players of conical bore instruments: baritone horns, euphoniums, tubas, and Sousaphones. The show includes arrangements of popular Christmas carols and holiday songs performed by musicians from all over the northwest. Tickets are $10. All attendees must have proof of a Covid vaccination or negative test. Purchase online at www.elsinoretheatre.com
On Exhibit
HALLIE FORD MSUEUM OF ART
The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is Oregon’s third-largest art museum. It is located at 700 State St and open 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Cost to explore is $3 to $6 and free for everyone on Tuesdays. Proof of vaccination required for entry. Details on the museum website. For more information, visit willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.
Through December 18
Time In Place: Northwest Art From The Permanent Collection — This exhibition explores concepts of place as expressed in Northwest art over the past 150 years. Combining social, political, and environmental themes alongside individual interpretations of the Northwest landscape, the exhibition looks at how our sense of place develops through time and relationship with the land.
Through March 31, 2022
In Dialogue: Diego Rivera — Diego Rivera’s painting La ofrenda (1931) forms the centerpiece for the museum’s newest In Dialogue exhibition organized by Curator of Collections and Exhibitions Jonathan Bucci.
Diego Rivera (Mexican, 1886-1957) was one the most important Modernist painters during the first half of the 20th century and was married to Surrealist artist Frida Kahlo. Known for both his paintings and large scale murals, Rivera often depicted scenes of traditional Mexican culture and history as well as Social Realist images of the worker.
SALEM ART ASSOCIATION
Salem Art Association aims to engage the community in the appreciation of the arts through contemporary art exhibitions and events, arts education for youth and adults, and the preservation and interpretation of our shared cultural heritage. Events and exhibits are located in the Bush Barn Art Center & Annex at 600 Mission St. SE, which is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday to Saturday. Masks and social distancing required. No charge to visit, but donations are accepted. Info: 503-581‑2228, salemart.org.
Through December 24
Native Salem is an exhibition addressing the history and culture of the original Kalapuyans at Chemeketa Village, the original native peoples of what became Salem, Oregon. The exhibit images and text look at settler changes to the name and character of the town and how the Chemeketans adapted to the new American culture. Additionally, the exhibit documents challenges that Native peoples continue to face in the region from federal and state authorities in the recent past and present.
Small Wonders is a show created with the gift-giving season in mind. Find a perfect, unique gift for that special someone. Pastels, collages, paintings, and photography in petite sizes from artists Nancy Eng, Katy Vigeland and Deanna White and more.
Featured Artist Dale Kurtz paints watercolor of the Oregon landscape.
SALEM ON THE EDGE
From fine art, up and coming artists, graffiti muralists and more, Salem on the Edge features work by PNW artists in a variety of media both for purchase and in rotating exhibits. Stop in and visit at 156 Liberty St. NE. Learn more at salemontheedge.com.
Through December 24
The Small Works show doubles as a holiday shopping experience that encourages you to give a gift of original artwork while supporting your local artists. In addition to the gallery’s represented artist, five guest artists will also have work in the show. They are Robin Bielefeld (who creates the fantastic window displays at Cooke Stationery) colored pencil drawings on paper; Justin Avery, Bees, oil on paper; Jill Perry Townsend, plein air paintings; Robin Cunningham, acrylic abstract; and Shannon Staab Ross, playful ceramics.
Work by guest artist Tom Cramer will also be on exhibit. Tom is a Portland artist who has been featured on OPB’s Oregon Art Beat. Additionally, his work is in the Hallie Ford Museum of Art’s permanent collection. The gallery will be showing a couple of his gold leaf and oil wood carvings, and his acrylic paintings.
Carlee Wright
