The InstigatorHere’s a look at what’s happening this May in Salem, Oregon —
Through May 14
Pentacle Theatre presents Twelfth Night — Shakespeare’s classic story of love, lust, mistaken identity, gender exploration and la dolce vita. When Viola is shipwrecked on the coast of a city called Illyria, and believes their brother Sebastian is lost at sea, Viola sets out to make a life for themself in this new land. Presenting as a young man, Viola takes the name Cesario. Viola/Cesario takes a job at the court of Duke Orsino, and quickly finds themself in the middle of a love triangle between the Duke and the Lady Olivia. Viola/Cesario meets an array of exciting and exuberant characters as the plot twists and turns. With immersive video and soundscape design, Twelfth Night is sure to entertain. Directed by Isaac Joyce-Shaw. Note: Proof of COVID-19 vaccinations OR a negative test is required for all patrons. Masks welcomed and recommended.
When: 7:30 p.m. April 22-23, 28-30, May 5-7, 12-14, and 2 p.m. April 24, May 1 and 8. Doors open 1 hour prior to curtain time.
Where: Pentacle Theatre, 324 52nd Ave NW
Tickets: $25. Buy here. Frontline healthcare workers and people who hold an Oregon Trail Card are eligible for a 50 percent discount.
May 1
Make a May Day Flower Crown — Drop in any time on May Day to celebrate spring by making your own flower crown from a wide choice of spring greens and flowers. Local floral designer Kim Aldrich of Alchemy Botanical Design will be there. No reservations necessary.
When: 12 to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 1
Where: Windowsill, 4910 Turner Rd SE.
Cost: $20 each crown or 2 for $35.
Info: www.windowsillsalem.com
Songs of Perseverance — Willamette Master Chorus returns to live concerts with “Songs of Perseverance,” a special concert of songs that speak of the perseverance of cultures and people that have endured hardship presently and throughout history. “Jubilant Day” by Judy Rose, a composition that speaks about the hope and joy that we will realize when we are inclusive of all people, ideas, cultures, and traditions, will be the centerpiece of the concert. The chorus will recognize teachers who have helped young people navigate and continue learning through this challenging time.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, May 1
Where: Hudson Hall in Rogers Music Center, Willamette University
Cost: $25
Info: willamettemasterchorus.org
May 3
McNary High School Celebration of Music will feature the performances of the McNary Chamber Orchestra, Highlander Classics, Symphony, and Wind Ensemble.
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 3. Door open at 6 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $8 for age 14 and older. Children age 13 and younger are free. Click here for tickets.
Info: elsinoretheatre.com
May 4
May the Fourth Be With You! The Elsinore’s Family Film Series presents Star Wars: A New Hope. Nineteen years after the formation of the Empire, Luke Skywalker is thrust into the struggle of the Rebel Alliance when he meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, who has lived for years in seclusion on the desert planet of Tatooine. Obi-Wan begins Luke’s Jedi training as Luke joins him on a daring mission to rescue the beautiful Rebel leader Princess Leia from the clutches of the evil Empire. Note: This is the remastered version.
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 4
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $10. Kids 12 and younger free with paid adult (limit 2 children per paid ticket) Click here for tickets.
May 6
Salem Art Walk — Head downtown for local art, pop-up events, live music and more. Grab an Art Walk Passport and enter for a chance to win the Art Walk Raffle Basket. The festivities take place from 5 to 8 p.m. in downtown Salem.
After the Art Walk, head to the Riverfront Park Amphitheater for a free, all-ages concert with Pachanga.
Kickstand Comedy Presents Secret Aardvark Improv — Take in a night of improv comedy hosted by a super-secret extra-special one-of-a-kind guest and featuring performers from Portland and Salem. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. Masks are appreciated but not required.
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 6. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $12 in advance/ $15 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 16 and older (PG-13)
Info: https://infinityroomsalem.com
Comedy with Kermet Apio — Hawaii-born, Seattle-residing comedian Kermet Apio was the 2009 winner of the Great American Comedy Festival in Norfolk, Nebraska, a national competition held in Johnny Carson’s hometown. He has appeared on television and radio, with over 40 appearances on “Rewind,” a show heard on NPR.
When: 9 p.m. Friday, May 6. Doors open at 8 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $15 in advance/ $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 21 and older
Info: https://infinityroomsalem.com
Comedian Jeff Shaw — Jeff is an accomplished stand-up comedian whose first Dry Bar Comedy special Manly Girly Man has garnered over 10 million views on Facebook and whose second Dry Bar Comedy special will be released in the fall. In March of 2020, Jeff beat out thousands of contenders to win a spot for Season 15 of America’s Got Talent.
When: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. May 6
Where: Ankeny Vineyard, 2565 Riverside Rd S
Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members
Info: https://ankenyvineyard.com/event/comedy-jeff-shaw/
May 6 & 7
Tis the season for green! Discover more than 10,000 plants at The Master Gardener Plant Sale. Oregon State Fairgrounds. Find annuals and perennials, beneficials and natives, vegetables, herbs, shrubs, trees and more. New this year — Buy a plant and a pot and they will plant it for free. The Master Gardeners will also be there to answer your gardening questions, in addition to hosting demos each day. This sale is the primary fundraiser for the Marion County Master Gardener Association and supports the majority of the organization’s community education and outreach programs.
When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, May 6 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 7
Where: Columbia Hall, Oregon State Fairgrounds
Info: https://marioncomga.org/plant-sale/
May 7
Take a Walk in the Park has been canceled.
Willamette Heritage Center’s Sheep to Shawl festival returns for for the 36th consecutive year of fun and educational activities. While the pandemic took the event virtual for a couple of years, it is back — live and in person — with family-friendly day of activities that dive into the history of the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill and the booming wool industry, which became the highlight of Salem’s economy until the 1960s. Guests are invited to enjoy the full experience of the wool production process, starting at the beginning by meeting animals such as: alpacas, llamas, rabbits, and sheep. There will be shearing demonstrations by the talented Johnny Varga and expert textile artist demonstrations by spinners, weavers, knitters, and wool tatters who turn wool into finished products
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 7
Where: Willamette Heritage Center
Cost: Free
Info: www.willametteheritage.org
Open Studios at The Mill — After a long pandemic hiatus, the artists at Studios at The Mill will welcome visitors to an Open House. Most of the artists will be present, and in anticipation, we have spiffed up the public spaces with some fresh paint and newly hung art in the hallways and gallery space. The gallery will feature “Reboot,” a group exhibition and sale of works by studio artists. Due to continued caution, masks are encouraged and appreciated. Some artists may require them when you enter their personal studio spaces.
When: 10 am to 4 p.m. May 7
Where: Willamette Heritage Center
Snacks! A Benefit for Free Fridge Salem — Tony Meyer and Infinity Room present Snacks!, a sampling of music, comedy and a very special menu for the benefit of Free Fridge Salem. Take in an evening of live entertainment by comedians James Wood (Savage Henry Comedy Festival), Emma Jonas (Savage Henry, Undertow, & Ha Ha Harvest Comedy Festivals), and Kermet Apio (Drybar Comedy, Winner of International Seattle Comedy Competition), plus music by special guests Stan McMahon and Matt Keurbis, to help support Free Fridge Salem, a local mutual aid project started to help our neighbors with food insecurity and basic human needs like personal hygiene products, harm reduction supplies and seasonal aid offerings. All care is offered without any strings or programming. The event will also include a raffle and all proceeds support the not-for-profit venture.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $45 in advance, $50 at the door. Ticket price includes show admission, a special meal crafted exclusively for this show and two raffle tickets. Click here for tickets.
Age: 16 and older
Note: Proof of vaccination OR a negative covid test result from within 48 hours of the event required for entry. Masks encouraged but not required.
Petal to the Metal is a three-game junior roller derby tournament hosted by Salem’s Cherry City Roller Derby and Cherry Blossoms Junior Roller Derby. The final game of the event (7 p.m.) will be a sanctioned bout.
When: Starting at 1 p.m.
Where: The Mad House, 1335 Madison St NE
Cost: $20. Click here for tickets.
May 8
Looking for Mother’s Day activities? Click here.
Catch Blunderbusst & The March Divide with Special Guest Jewelia Owens.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, May 8. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: All ages until 9 p.m.
Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. Masks are appreciated but not required.
May 13
May Ceili Mor — Join Ceili of the Valley Society for a night of dancing accompanied by live music by Na Rosai. Geraldine Murray will call this no experience, no partner needed dance event. Not into dancing? Go for the music! Bring your own water. Note: Covid-19 vaccination or negative Covid test within 72 hours of the dance to enter. Masks are highly recommended.
When: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 13
Where: VFW Hall, 630 Hood St NE
Cost: $10
Info: ceiliofthevalley.org
Enjoy the powerful and charismatic sound of taiko drum music. Monmouth Taiko will play traditional and modern compositions of the Japanese drumming music called taiko, with the Japanese flute called fue. Taiko is played on large drums with choreographed dance and
movement. Monmouth Taiko is based in the Willamette Valley area of Oregon. They
travel around the Pacific Northwest sharing their joyful and powerful sound.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 13
Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Salem (UUCS), 5090 Center St NE
Cost: $20/$15 students or seniors.
Info: uusalem.org/celebratingdiversity/
Note: Masks and proof of vaccination or OHA exemption will be required at the door.
Comedy with Chase Brockett — Laugh out loud with NW sweetheart Chase Brockett and comedian, mathematician and 2036 presidential candidate Sammy Obeid. Chase’s comedy explores a variety of topics such as family, relationships, politics, and science. With affable charm, his smart and endearingly frustrated comedic style fits well in any type of room. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative covid test from within 48 hours required for entry. Masks appreciated but not required.
When: 8 p.m. May 13. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 21 and older
Info: https://infinityroomsalem.com
May 13-15
Enlightened Theatrics presents Rainbow Fish. With shiny, multi-colored scales, Rainbow Fish is the most beautiful fish in all the world, and the only one of their kind. When Rainbow Fish refuses to share their scales, the whole ocean seems to turn against the vain creature. Together with a silly starfish, a wise octopus, and another friendly fish, Rainbow Fish might just learn the value of friendship…and the joy of sharing what you have with others!
When: 7:30 p.m. May 13-14 and 2 p.m. May 15
Where: Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre
Info: https://enlightenedtheatrics.org/
May 13-15, 20-22
The Friends of the Salem Public Library Spring Book Sale is back. From hardcovers and paperbacks to audio visual items, find a new read at this sale that supports library events and programs.
When: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 13-14 and 20-21 and 1 to 4:30 p.m. May 15 and 22.
Where: Anderson Rooms A&B, Salem Public Library, 585 Liberty St SE
Info: www.salemfriends.org
May 14
Comedy with Ed Hill — Laugh out loud with comedian Ed Hill. Named “Comic to Watch” by Reader’s Digest Magazine, this Canadian funnyman has performed for AXS TV’s “Gotham Comedy Live”, “Laughs” on FOX, TED talks and XM Radio. His tweets have been featured on “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon”, Buzzfeed, and The Huffington Post. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 14. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room
Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Click here for tickets.
Age: 18 and older
Labansky — Formerly the lead guitarist for Geffen Records’ band Black-n-Blue (managed by Gene Simmons of Kiss), LaBansky has played, recorded and toured with members of Whitesnake, Quiet Riot, W.A.S.P., L.A.Guns, Cheap Trick, Angel, UFO, Jeff Beck and Sam Kinison. This show will be LaBansky’s CD release of his latest album of original music titled Zen Frenzy.
When: 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 14
Where: The Yard Food Park
The Brian Odell Band plays American rock with roots firmly grounded in funk, fusion, rock, jazz, and folk.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, May 14. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Where: Venti’s Cafe + Basement Bar
Age: 21 and older.
Cost: $20. Click here for tickets. Limited tickets available. Advanced purchase highly encouraged.
Tippy Toe Dance Studio presents Make Your Move. Tippy Toe is bringing chess to life with an original show-stopping performance. Dancers take their place on the chessboard as an epic battle ensues and the Player emerges. To win the game, the Player must accept the Queen’s challenge. Immersed in a fantastical world of classic game pieces, our audience will follow the Player as they encounter a brave knight who has lost their sword, a fiery dragon spreading smoke across the land, and a mystical potion master who may just be able to help. The clock is ticking and time is running out – but with the right key, the Player can return to the board and unlock their prize. Will you accept the Queen’s challenge?
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, May 14. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $15-$21. Click here for tickets.
Check out Chili Nights with sounds by DJ Sticky, Soundwavves and friends.
When: 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 14. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE
Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the door.
Age: 21 and older.
Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. Masks are appreciated but not required.
May 15
The Statesman and The Freedman: Asahel Bush, Hiram Gorman and Black Exclusion in Oregon — In 2019, members of the Oregon Black Pioneers challenged the Bush House Museum to look closely at the words and actions of Asahel Bush and his impact on early Black Oregonians and other people of color. What we found started us on a journey to re-examine Bush and his legacy, and to find ways to celebrate and elevate the stories of those he oppressed. This is one of those stories.
When: 1 to 2 p.m. May 15
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Click here to register.
Info: https://salemart.org/
The Elsinore Theatre’s Spanish Movie Series presents La presidenta municipal, the 1975 Mexican comedy film directed by Fernando Cortés and starring María Elena Velasco, about an indigenous potter who becomes the first female municipal president of Chipitongo el Alto.
Serie de Películas (para la familia) en Español: La presidenta municipal — La presidenta municipal es una película de comedia mexicana de 1975 dirigida por Fernando Cortés y protagonizada por María Elena Velasco, sobre una alfarera indígena que se convierte en la primera presidenta municipal de Chipitongo el Alto.
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, May 15
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $5. Click here for tickets.
May 17
Take in a night of live music with Some Kind of Nightmare, Bazooka Sharkz and Question Tuesday. All ages show (there’s a bar 20 feet away)
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 17
Where: Blast Off Vintage
Cost: $10
May 18
Building Relationships Between Gallery and Artist — This talk addresses how artists can engage with various types of galleries. How do artist and gallery find the best fit? How do you navigate the world of representation and showing your work? What do artists needs to know to build successful relationships with galleries? Join us to learn more about commercial and coop galleries! Speakers include Kristin Solomon, Creative Business Strategist & Blackfish Gallery Director Melanie Weston, Gallery owner, Director, Salem on the Edge
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. May 18
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Info: https://salemart.org/
May 20
Oregon Symphony in Salem presents Wagner & Strauss: Stories Without Words. Two of opera’s best-known stories come to life through their greatest orchestral selections. Following music from Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde, the joy of the Viennese waltz comes alive in Richard Strauss’ exuberant Rosenkavalier Suite. Plus, Gabriella Smith’s mini-concerto for marimba, Riprap, featuring new Principal Percussionist, Michael Roberts.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 20
Where: Smith Auditorium at Willamette University
Cost: $36 to $51. Click here for tickets.
Info: www.orsymphony.org
May 21
Mid Valley Comic Art Expo is a family-friendly pop culture and comic book-inspired event. Meet a variety of special guests from artists to performers, shop pop culture vendors, take part in a cosplay contest and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 21
Where: Columbia Hall at the Oregon State Fairgrounds
Cost: $7 in advance, $10 at the door (age 12 and older). Free for military with ID and for younger than 12 with a paid adult. Free parking. Buy tickets here.
Info: https://mvcae.com
Delgani IV — Dance of Joy features Elena Ruehr’s vibrant third quartet, which boasts an eclectic array of influences, from Hildegard von Bingen to African dance rhythms. Celebrated quartets by Haydn and Brahms open and close the program, concluding Delgani String Quartets’s season with joy in a post-pandemic world.
When: 3 p.m. May 21
Where: Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Cost: $28. $5 student. Click here for tickets.
Info: delgani.org
May 22
Learn to Felt — Learn how to needle felt a wee woolie sheep with instructor Audrey Comerford, of Wee Woollies Fiber Arts. Great for beginners as well as those with some experience, this class will teach you how to make basic shapes with needle felting, so you can continue with the craft and create more complex pieces. Supplies for the class are included. You will walk away with a completed sheep, felting knowledge, and a felting block/needle for you to keep. Space is limited. Secure your spot by emailing hello@ernieandgray.com by calling Ernie & Gray at 971-720-1279.
When: 10 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, May 22
Where: Ernie & Gray, 329 State St
Cost: $35 + $10 materials
An Evening of Jazz — Enjoy an evening of live music — a performance by North Salem High School’s 14th Street Jazz Band, a delicious meal by catered by Basil and Board and a silent and live auction to support the North Salem High School Band Program.
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, May 22
Where: The Reed Ballroom
Cost: $50. Click here for tickets. Buy tickets in person at Willamette Valley Music Company, 484 State St
Concertango — Salem Symphonic Winds present a concert featuring Spanish, Cuban and Mexican music with several soloists.
The featured work is Concertango by Spanish composer Luis Serrano Alarcón, highlighting solo alto saxophone with a jazz trio. Our guests are Randy Kem, saxophone: Jof Lee, piano: Tim Gilson, bass: Mike Snyder, drums. The work is a beautiful fusion of flamenco, tango, and jazz. The concert will also feature Scent, a US premiere of a new concerto for soprano clarinet by Saül Gómez Soler. Kevin Vaughn is our E-flat clarinet soloist. Scent explores and musically depicts aromas that influence our lives, including fresh herbs, smoke in the city, a flower garden, and bitter coffee. Kurleen LaPlanche will join the band singing the premiere of a new arrangement by Larry Harrington of Babalú by Margarita Lecuona. Joaquin Rodrigo’s Per la Flor del Lliri Blau illustrates a tragic folk tale from Valencia in dramatic and beautiful melodies. Danzon No.2 by Mexican composer Arturo Márquez brings the concert to a rousing close.
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, May 22
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $13 to $33. Click here for tickets.
Info: salemsymphonicwinds.org
Note: Modified COVID-19 Policy: Masking and proof of vaccination are no longer required for attendance but are highly encouraged. Social distancing is recommended
May 24
Building Your Brand: Success in Marketing and Selling Art Your Own Way — How do we connect? Technology offers us various ways of getting our work directly into the hands of our audience. Come explore various strategies for sharing and selling work using technology and social media with Kristin Solomon, Creative Business Strategist & Blackfish Gallery Director.
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. May 24
Where: Bush Barn Art Center, 600 Mission St. SE
Info: https://salemart.org/
May 25
The Elsinore Theatre will celebrate its 96th anniversary with a benefit concert starring Pink Martini featuring China Forbes, plus a silent auction and raffle. “Pink Martini is a rollicking around-the-world musical adventure… if the United Nations had a house band in 1962, hopefully, we’d be that band.” – Thomas Lauderdale, bandleader/pianist. Funds raised help preserve the 96-year-old historic building in downtown Salem. No cost to register for the auction.
When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $49 to $99 / $5 more on day of show. Click here for tickets.
May 26
Willamette Humane Society hosts Kittens and Beer. Kitten cuddling shifts available every 15 minutes. Santiam will donate $1 for every beer sold. Minors are welcome, and non-alcoholic beverages are available. Learn more in our Press Play Salem feature story here.
When: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 26
Where: Santiam Brewing Co, 860 High St NE
Cost: $5 suggested donation
May 27
Stone In Love — Hear faithful renditions of classic hits from one of the most beloved rock groups of all time: Journey. SIL delivers a high-energy performance that showcases all the hallmarks of the Journey sound – soaring lead vocals, lush four-part harmonies, signature guitar licks, fat keyboards, and driving rhythms – on legendary hits known the world over
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 27. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $25 to $30. $5 more on day of show. Click here for tickets.
May 28
Jarred Venti’s Narcissistic Birthday Show features an all-star lineup of area talent featuring the birthday boy on bass. This year includes FOamboy, Clawfoot Slumber and Wild Ire. It is also the debut show for V/V and will include a one-time appearance of JV & The Melatones. Note: Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test within 48 hours required on entry. Masks are appreciated but not required.
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, May 28 (all age welcome until 9 p.m.)
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $18 in advance, $22 at the door
Lipstick Divas presents Makeup & Mimosas Drag Brunch hosted by Nicole Onoscopi and featuring amazing drag talents. Mary, mimosa and brunch specials available.
When: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 28. Doors open at 12 p.m.
Where: Infinity Room, 210 Liberty St SE #150
Cost: $10. (Food extra) Get tickets here.
Age: 18 and older
May 29
Spring in wine country comes alive at the Willamette Valley Wine Festival. This family-friendly event celebrates one of Oregon’s most notable bounties — wine. Plus, it coincides with the Willamette Valley Marathon and Half-Marathon, a big city-run with wild-scenic beauty.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 29
Where: Riverfront Park
Info: willamettevalleywinefest.com
The Elsinore Theatre’s Spanish Movie Series presents Sor Tequila, the 1977 Mexican comedy film directed by Rogelio A. González and starring María Elena Velasco. Sor María Nicolasa, an indigenous nun nicknamed “Sor Tequila,” seems to get herself in funny situations while she travels around helping people.
Serie de Películas para la familia en Español: Sor Tequila — Sor Tequila es una película de comedia mexicana de 1977 dirigida por Rogelio A. González y protagonizada por María Elena Velasco. Sor María Nicolasa, una monja indígena apodada “Sor Tequila”, parece meterse en situaciones divertidas mientras viaja ayudando a la gente.
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, May 29
Where: Elsinore Theatre, 170 High St SE
Cost: $5. Click here to buy tickets.
And In the Arts…
At Hallie Ford Museum of Art —
The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is Oregon’s third-largest art museum. It features works by Pacific Northwest and Native American artists, a diverse collection of traditional European, American and Asian art, as well as artifacts that date from antiquity. Frequently changing exhibitions include lectures, special events, tours, artist demonstrations and educational opportunities for children and adults.
The museum is located at 700 State Street and is open 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Cost to explore is $6, $4 for seniors (age 55 and older) and $3 for educators and students 18 and older. Admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays. For more information, visit willamette.edu/arts/hfma, or call 503-370-6855.
Through May 14
Murmuration: Senior Studio Art Majors 2022 — Each spring, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art features the work of senior studio art majors at Willamette University. The exhibition represents the culmination of their four years at Willamette.
Chelsea Couch: Boots, Bullets, Britches, & Bologna — This year’s featured faculty member is Visiting Assistant Professor of Art Chelsea Couch, who teaches sculpture, video art, performance art, and time-based media in the Willamette University Art Department.
Through May 28
Putin’s Big Parade — Jim Riswold is back to continue his battle against bullies, and this time his sharp wit is taking aim at Putin. “Putin’s Big Parade” opens April 16 and continues through May 28 in the Maribeth Collins Lobby. All prints are for sale as a fundraiser and all proceeds and donations will go to the Hallie Ford Museum’s Ukrainian Relief Fund which supports Ukrainian refugees through ICOM (International Council of Museums) Poland.
May 7 through August 13
April Waters: Water-Ice-Sky, Antarctica — In 2018, Salem artist April Waters as a grantee of the National Science Foundation Antarctic Artists and Writers Program, traveled to Palmer Station, Antarctica, to observe, study, photograph, and sketch the ocean, icebergs, and Marr Glacier. The exhibition features a range of Antarctica paintings created over the past three years as well as text panels that describe her journey and the science being done at Palmer Station.
At Level2 Gallery —
Level 2 Gallery at the Salem Convention Center is curated by the Oregon Artists Series Foundation. Located on the second floor of the center, it features changing exhibits of work by established and emerging artists of the region. The Gallery is accessible Monday through Friday during regular business hours, during special events or by appointment by calling 503-589-1700. Info: www.oregonartistsseries.com
Through May 31
Woven Journals — See a collection of mixed media studio work created since the onset of the Covid 19 pandemic by West Salem artist Kristin Kuhns. While staying close to home, she and her family took comfort in their regular walks through Minto Brown Park, a familiar place of respite and for exercise in Kuhns’ life for years. The works in this exhibit chronicle familiar elements from Minto Brown with a subtext of living during a global pandemic. The pieces weave contrasting images of comfort and disturbance, and written notes and thoughts are journaled within the woven patterns. Learn more in our Press Play Salem feature story.
At Salem Art Association —
Founded in 1919, the 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. Visit the center 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Masks and social distancing required. There is no charge to visit, but donations are accepted. For more information, call 503-581‑2228 or visit salemart.org.
Through May 28
Object Lessons: Frank Miller — Object Lessons is a series of photographs that uses extreme close-ups and lighting to explore the effects of time on organic and human-made objects. Reception: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. May 13
Through May 31
Artist-in-Residence: Michael Hernandez — Hernandez says the work he’ll be producing in his residence will consist of experimental abstract expressions in various sizes and mediums (primarily acrylic paintings) in combination with drawings and transfers. The transfers are typically design foundations that utilize typography and graphics that the compositions are built upon.
Through June 25
Black Matter — The traveling exhibition Black Matter showcases contemporary Oregon-based black artists in an effort to address an imbalance in representation. Their voices should be heard, not because they are black, but because they are human beings with unique life experiences. It is essential to lift up the contributions of black artists above systematic oppression in life and in art. Black artists should be recognized as individuals, without the filter of what the Western art canon tells us black art is or should be. The goal of the exhibition is to broaden cultural awareness of and appreciation for art by black artists in Oregon. This exhibit offers black artists the opportunity to share artwork that expresses what’s in their hearts and minds without the requirement of a political agenda. Black artists are continuously expected to make art about race, racism, and social injustice. The artwork in this exhibition expresses more than their experience of living in a state and country rooted in systematic racism; their art speaks to the experience of being human. Reception: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. May 6
At 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. Info: salemontheedge.com.
May’s featured artists are Rebecca Mannheimer and Sarah Sedwick, both who live in Eugene and have been represented by the gallery since it opened in July of 2020.
Rebecca’s work is about narrative, which comes from the exploration of her personal history, “I am influenced by my surroundings and it filters into my imagery. I take that experience of the landscape and how it changes from day to day along with the light that is altered with each new season and combine it with an array of other elements that come with me when I sit down to paint. I would describe my work as an internal landscape. I use symbols and metaphors that have a personal meaning, that tell a story or have a reference to what the pieces are about. Objects often float as if in a dream state; they get pushed and pulled in and out of the field of color in which they sit. Edges appear and disappear, get defined and shift as the pieces evolve.”
Sarah’s work focuses mainly on still life and portraiture, “I am an oil painter whose still lifes celebrate the beauty of the everyday, inspired by color combinations and dynamic composition. My paintings explore the undercurrents of meaning we impart to the objects around us – whether through a system of personal emotional symbolism or a buildup of familiarity over time.”
At Gallery 444 —
Located within Elsinore Framing & Fine Art Gallery at 444 Ferry St. SE, Gallery 444 hosts monthly exhibits highlighting artists from in and around Salem. Info: 503-581-4642, elsinoregallery.com
May 7 through 28
High Desert Art League — See the world of this collective of 13 Bend, Oregon-area artists who paint and sculpt in a variety of media. Opening Reception: 3 to 6 p.m. May 7.
