President’s Message December 2025

It’s been nearly a year since becoming a board member and the president of PNW Sculptors.

Launching straight from being a new-ish member to being the president was, I hear, a bit bold, but I’m so glad to have made the leap.

Over the past year we’ve organized terrific opportunities for members to educate the public about sculpture – demonstrating what we do at some of the biggest art events in Oregon.

 

We’ve also provided members with show opportunities that have netted higher sales than we’ve seen in quite awhile.

Member gatherings have inspired, built camaraderie, and stimulated conversations on everything from how to construct large-scale mobiles ala Calder, to sculpting through depression, to the role love plays in creating sculptures that move people.

 

Alisa Looney’s Sculpture Conversations via Zoom have provided a surprisingly intimate way to connect people across geography. Seeing dining tables double as space to build armatures, and hearing others go through the natural ups and downs of creating is heartening – especially with Alisa’s warm welcome and support. 

With the sudden loss of our treasurer Bill Leigh to illness, we’ve found new ways to mourn while celebrating life. From a practical standpoint, Bill’s death prompted us to build greater transparency and cross-knowledge of business processes so we can be resilient in the years to come.

I’m delighted to have helped bring an intern onboard from Pacific NW College of Art. Nat Partna’s energy, sense of humor and drive for organization have been a breath of fresh air. I will miss seeing her in person as she heads to Ireland for a study abroad opportunity.

In preparation for the annual meeting coming in January, I’ll call out a few upcoming opportunities. Please let me know if you are interested in any of the following:

• Board member positions are open (2 – 4 hours per month)
• Membership administration (2 – 3 hours per month)
• Website support (varies widely; WordPress experience needed)
• Storage Unit manager (varies widely; provides access and help moving show furniture; truck or other large vehicle needed; storage unit is near Division & I-205)
• Member Outreach (1 – 2 hours per month)

To the volunteers and board members not mentioned here, I send deep thanks. You have enriched my life with your generosity and willingness to jump in and get things done. 

And for all of us, may the end of one year and the start of the next encourage introspection and expression. May the art around you create a reflection of who you are and who you are becoming.