The “50 for 50” campaign is your invitation to rediscover Oregon through the lens of public art. Located in state buildings and public spaces from Portland to Pendelton, these works are available for all to enjoy. They exemplify the program’s mission to make art an integral part of daily life while encouraging the exploration of Oregon’s rich landscapes and communities.
‘50 for 50:’ Celebrating 50 Years of Oregon’s Percent for Art in Public Places Program
Discover Art Across Oregon
Artistic Journeys
As part of “50 for 50,” the Arts Commission will offer unique insights into the creation of these works by sharing historical materials from the archives. Installation photos, early sketches and other documents illuminate the stories behind the art, revealing the creative processes that brought them to life. The historical materials will be available through digital platforms, providing a deeper understanding of how public art shapes our shared spaces.
Explore and Engage
The “50 for 50” campaign includes:
- Interactive Maps: Plan your journey to view these 50 works and explore the broader collection;
- Archival Highlights: Access historical documents and process materials through a dedicated “50 for 50” digital portal; and
- Collection Insights: Learn more about the history of public art in Oregon and the artists who have contributed to the collection.
Celebrating 50 Years of Art for All
For half a century, Oregon’s Percent for Art in Public Places program has enriched the lives of residents and visitors by making art accessible and integrated into the everyday. “50 for 50” is not only a celebration of this enduring legacy but also a call to explore the art that continues to define Oregon and inspire its residents.
Join us in celebrating 50 years of creativity and connection. Discover the stories behind the works, explore the landscapes they inhabit and experience the art that has shaped Oregon for generations.
Begin your journey with “50 for 50” today!
About the Oregon Arts Commission
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, services and special initiatives. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts.
The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities.
To learn more about the Oregon Arts Commission visit: www.oregonartscommission.gov
Oregon's Seven Regional Landscapes
The Oregon Arts Commission logo demonstrates the value of art in the lives of all Oregonians, and showcases creative expression as a core Oregonian value. The mark resembles a mosaic which represents the diverse communities throughout our state. Where these areas overlap we see unification and connections forming. The colors portray the seven regional landscapes:
Central Oregon: Big Sky Blue
Eastern Oregon: Fossil Green
Willamette Valley: Oregon Grape
Southern Oregon: Conifer Green
Oregon Coast: Manzanita Tan
Portland Metro: Rose City Red
Columbia River Gorge: Crown Point Purple
About the Artist Behind our 50 for 50 design
Jason Sturgill is a former graphic designer turned art director and illustrator. He grew up thinking he couldn’t draw and it wasn’t until he was in his 30s that he put the proverbial pencil to paper. Jason unknowingly has always been a fan of illustration from a young age through his fascination with skateboard and album art. This love of art led him to start an online art gallery in 2001 while he was working as an interactive producer at Wieden+Kennedy. His professional career started in advertising in a noncreative capacity but after having cancer at the age of 28 he made a concerted effort to switch to design eventually working for Dark Horse Comics and Nike Skateboarding before pivoting into illustration. After working for several years as a professional illustrator Jason found out he had Bipolar 2 disorder and has integrated mental health advocacy in his personal work that he regularly shares through his instagram account.
You can check out some of that work by following him at @jgspdx.
“I’m such a fan of public art that it was a real honor to contribute to this project and be a tiny part of the legacy of the percent for art program. I had a lot of fun imagining how these characters could embody the diverse audience of Oregonians that will get to enjoy our statewide art gallery for generations to come.”
