PAINTED
FROM PAINTED SKY
CENTER FOR THE ARTS
We are pleased to present our 2023 Annual Report In the past year, Painted Sky Center for the Arts (PSCA) offered a wide variety of programming and services to the residents and visitors of Grant County. We featured art and cultural programming and workshops throughout the year, including ceramics, fiber arts, visual arts, leatherworking, performing arts, cultural offerings, and youth after school art club.
PSCA has intentionally created space to promote understanding and improvement of the Social Determinants of Health to improve health equity for vulnerable populations in Grant County. PSCA is an integral part of Grant County’s community health and wellbeing, which is why growing the art center operations is critical to our ability to thrive as an organization in this community PSCA’s board members, staff and volunteers are invested in developing an artcentric, equitable community focused on healthy living through the arts These individuals have been actively engaged with community members and listening to them to determine their needs
Collaboration with local and state partners is at the heart of our mission. Our leadership has a
strong relationship with community leaders and stakeholders, which has been vital to our success in 2023. PSCA continues to collaborate with local partners and organizations, legislative leaders, state organizations, and foundations.
There are many new exciting initiatives on the horizon and we are excited to end 2023 with more robust programming and services to take us into the next year, where we hope to further build our community and culture of creativity.
We are incredibly grateful to all of our generous supporters and partners that have made it possible for Painted Sky Center for the Arts to continue growing and offering art and cultural programs and services in rural Eastern Oregon. We thank you for your continued support.
VALERIE MUNYON Executive Director
Painted Sky Center for the Arts (PSCA) is a 501(c)3 located in John Day, Oregon. PSCA is Grant County’s first and only art center, opening our doors, just prior to the pandemic in 2019. PSCA experienced significant year-over-year growth demonstrating the demand for arts programming in Grant County. The art center has rapidly expanded with an extensive volunteer network, an aggressive fundraising plan, a robust action plan, and a positive, inclusive culture.
MISSON
Our mission is to advance arts education and entertainment, enhancing the quality of life, and promoting cultural development in Grant County. PSCA provides arts education and performances for youth and adults, in addition to offering classes in cultural and literary arts, painting, drawing, fiber, sewing, ceramics, leatherworking, youth theater, and after-school programming.
VISION ABOUT
PSCA’s vision is to provide an artistically rich, intercultural, creative, vibrant space for community members and visitors. The new arts and cultural center facility will contribute to the “wholeness” of our community through an educated, adventurous, and integrated approach to the arts that cultivates participation by community members and visitors, as well as engaging other organizations in meaningful partnerships and alliances, creating opportunities for people to engage in the arts and with each other for many years to come.
A Year's Overview
SERVING FRONTIER OREGON
As Grant County is a rural, frontier community that is sparsely populated and geographically isolated from the rest of the state, access to the arts was severely lacking prior to the existence of PSCA. It is one of the most poverty-stricken and historically underserved counties in Oregon. PSCA is located within walking distance to lowincome housing and is across the street from the Heart of Grant County, a shelter for abuse victims. Part of our mission is to bring art and culture to the people of Grant County, reducing barriers and creating access to the arts.
7,200
People in Grant County
Of residents living below the poverty line 16.3%
1
Stoplight in the county
3
Hours from major cities and services
A Year's Overview PAINTED SKY CENTER FOR THE ARTS
ART IN THE COMMUNITY
Below are testimonies from our local residents, families and supporters of Painted Sky Center for the Arts.
“Thank youteachers & thank youPainted Sky for the fun summer classes for kids!”
-Local Resident
“A place for EVERYONE to enjoy creativity, with opportunities to learn something new.”
-Art instructor
“A place for people to foster their light and value is not tied to productivity.”
-Local Resident
“A place for people to gather, share
their talent, and learn.”
-Parent
500 PEOPLE SERVED
In 2023, PSCA served approximately 500 community members, including those who registered for classes, enrolled in youth programs, workshops, and attended free events.
336 CLASS REGISTRANTS
Painted Sky had 336 registrants for classes, workshops, and events in 2023.
122
Classes offered in painting, drawing, leatherworking, fiber, ceramics, literary arts, youth programs, and more.
44
Youth Served (12 and under), including arts after-school, Friday art club, performances, and classes.
6
Events hosted including member only events, holiday potluck, wreath-making fundraiser, ceramic throw down, ED welcome gathering.
27
Seniors served (65+) that registered for classes and workshops and attended events.
YOUTH PROGRAM
Monday through Friday, PSCA offers an afterschool program for children in Kindergarten through 6th Grade, which is planned to continue through 2024. The kids are taught unique artistic skills and techniques and have the opportunity to really dive into their creativity.
PSCA also partners with the local Grant School District #3 and Canyon City/ John Day Parks and Recreation to rent our gym space for after-school youth sports.
A NOTE FROM OUR YOUTH PROGRAM TEACHER
As of this year, the Youth Arts Program has adapted its curriculum to focus on higher art forms rather than crafts. This adaptability allows us to cater to the unique needs of each student, providing them with the time and resources to explore and practice skills in different mediums. Our students are able to experience and explore art in all its vast creativity. We have already delved into various art forms such as painting, pottery, sketching, and art inspired by careers and science, as well as styles from renowned artists.
The summer program also focused on teaching youth higher art forms through projects centered around the seven elements of art: color, texture, value, form, line, space, and shape. In our journey, we have learned shape and form by forming clay character bowls. We have learned about value through the mono painting of animal portraits. We are currently combining these lessons to focus on the science of paleoart, one of the many careers these kids could explore if they wish to pursue a career in art in their bright futures.
So far, the students have been eager to learn these art forms and are willing to challenge themselves- to explore the lessons. They have made some great discoveries and art they can be proud of.
In review, as the teacher of the program, I think it is essential to teach students this type of art because art in education is sadly one of the most cut programs in school districts, meaning students are not allowed to explore outlets that might be central to who they are as an individual. I grew up in a small school that rarely resembled an art class, but every second of taking that class allowed me to find an outlet for an interest in art and what qualities I liked about it. I hope that as a youth teacher, by giving these opportunities to these students to explore art in full, rather than quick crafts, they can decide if art is for them and keep creativity going in a world that desperately needs it.
2023 FALL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
PSCA hosted a 2023 Fall Fest Membership Drive to gain 50 new members in 50 days, starting in November 2023 through the end of December. This included individuals, families, businesses and sustaining members. We successfully reached 75% of our goal by acquiring 37 new members. This almost doubled our total number of members, with earning over $3,700 in membership dues during the drive. At the end of 2023, PSCA had 93 sustaining members that gave annually between $100-2,000, totaling $11,600.
PAINTED SKY CENTER FOR THE ARTS YEAR 2023
A Year's Overview
MILESTONES
OUR FIRST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR!
In 2023, PSCA hired our first Executive Director, Valerie Munyon. Valerie brings a wealth of experience and new energy to the art center. Valerie oversees day to day operations that includes managing staff, building management, fundraising efforts, creating events, and donor outreach. Valerie has already made a significant impact on the art center by increasing capacity and engaging with our community. She is an incredible asset to the art center.
NEW HOME FOR PAINTED SKY!
In November of 2023, PSCA successfully purchased a 17,700-square-foot building located at 116 NW Bridge Street in John Day to meet the demand for more programming and services, and the need for more room to expand and operate. This building has larger and additional classrooms, office space, ADA-accessible bathrooms, a performance hall, and cultural exhibition space. PSCA was also awarded a $100K from the the Oregon Community Foundation an $75K from the Roundhouse Foundation, for the down payment of our building. PSCA then worked with Craft 3 to obtain a bridge loan while we fundraise for the remaining balance of the building.
PAINTED SKY CENTER FOR THE ARTS
A Year's Overview
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
Painted Sky Center for the Arts is raising funds for our new building that houses the art center located at 116 NW Bridge Street in John Day. PSCA has experienced unprecedented growth and has been in desperate need of additional space to expand programs and services. This facility allows us to grow and offer more art and cultural services to the residents and visitors of Grant County.
$890K
Goal
$140K
Remaining balance as of December 31, 2023
$675K
Raised in 2023
Go to our website or contact us to discuss donation options HOW TO
A Year's Overview
2023 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
INCOME
TOTAL INCOME $385,314
TOTAL SPENDING: $400,888
EXPENSES
REDUCING BARRIERS A Year's Overview
For many residents of Grant County, their annual income is much less than the state average, with approximately 16% of families living below the poverty line. PSCA is committed to remaining a low-barrier, accessible space for arts and culture for all residents and visitors. By increasing the number of students (youth and adults) that we can serve in our classes and the number of artists and events that we can host in our spaces, PSCA is working to expand programming, increase our sustainable donor base, and partner with organizations to offer scholarships and free access to our services
PSCA has a three-fold plan regarding accessing the arts in Grant County:
1) Reduce financial barriers
2) Reduce social barriers
3) Transform our community
FUTURE
PSCA will continue providing transformational art experiences, while also making significant strides in securing the future of the art center. PSCA’s new arts and cultural center will enhance the quality of life by enriching local amenities in Grant County. PSCA plans to renovate the 6,300 square foot gym space, into a state-of-the-art event theater, performance, and conference space that can host up to 250-300 people. We plan to have the space available for our in-house events, traveling art and cultural performances, community organizations. and private parties. Our goal is to create a multi-purpose space that will be available to anyone who would like to rent the space for weddings, corporate meetings, presentations, anniversary parties, performances, and more.
PSCA TEAM
In addition to an Executive Director, PSCA employs a Youth Art Teacher and contracts a Development Director, Programs Coordinator and Marketing Assistant and art instructors.
The Development Director is in charge of writing grants, fundraising, membership drives, and collaborating with the Executive Director, and Executive Team to develop board and operational policies.
The Programs Coordinator creates class and workshop schedules and is in charge of creating marketing materials and the social media calendar
Executive Director: Valerie Munyon
Development Director: Allison Field
Programs Coordinator: Amanda Moss
Youth Teacher: Samantha Choate Adams
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The PSCA has 7 members on its governing Board of Directors. The board is responsible for overseeing and voting on PSCA activities and programming by adopting sound, ethical, and legal governance and financial management policies, as well as making sure PSCA has adequate resources to advance PSCA’s mission
The Board Members play very significant roles providing guidance to PSCA by contributing to the culture, strategic focus, effectiveness, and financial sustainability, and serving as ambassadors and advocates for the art center.
Most of the Board of Directors are lifelong residents of Grant County and are deeply invested in increasing the quality of life for their own families and local residents.
Board President: Kim Randleas
Vice President: Lizz Blackburn
Treasurer: Karin Barntish
Secretary: Melody Feden
Director: Autumn Holland
Director: Heidi Brooks
Director: Kathy Rogers
Painted Sky Center for the Arts
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
VISIT THE ART CENTER
Stop by to take a tour and register for a class! We are located at 116 NW Bridge Street in John Day.
DONATE
Visit paintedskycenter.com /donate or contact us at 541.575.1335.
SUBSCRRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Go to our website at paintedskycenter.com and subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay up to date on our latest events and news.
BE A SPONSOR
Join our group of business partners, organizations, and individuals who have made a difference in Grant County by giving to Painted Sky Center for the Arts.
VOLUNTEER LIKE US
We always can use a helping hand. Help us by joining our volunteer team today!
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @painted sky center to stay up to date on our latest classes, workshops, and events.
Painted Sky Center for the Arts
THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS
1188 Brewing
Aaron & Emily Lieuallen
Aaron Roth
Aaron & Janita Finley
Abbie Cowen-Thompson
Allison & Raymond Field
Amanda Moss
Amy Charrette
Apricot Apiaries
Audra Bruzeine & John Rowell
Badger Foster
Bank of Eastern Oregon
Bets Reed
Blue Mountain Hospital
Bob & Laurie Armstrong
Bob & Valerie Munyon
Brenna Desjardin
Cam & Amy Marlowe
Carol Hassebroek
Chantal Desjardin
Charles McKenna
Cheryl Coughlan
Chris & Dan Cronin
Cindy Dougherty
City of John Day
City of Mount Vernon
Community Counseling Solutions
Connie Macomber
Constance Smith
Craft 3
Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon
Curt Blackburn
Darla & Doug Carpenter
David & Gloria Santiago
Debbie Prophet
Debi Heuckman
Dennis and Linda Dickenson
Dennis Dice
Department of Human
Services
Donna & Dan Becker
Donna Reed
Doug Carpenter
Doug's Motor Vehicle Repair
Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care
Organization
Ed and Diane Higbie
Elizabeth Urbick
Elkhorn Media Group
Eloise Boren
Emily Workman
Field's Tree Service
First Community Credit Union
Flora Levy
Ford Family Foundation
Frontier Towing and Repair
Genevieve & Dave Paddock
Gillian Seton
Ginger Savage
Gorge Community Foundation
Grant County Artist Association
Grant County Automotive
Grant County Chamber of Commerce
Grant County Library
Grant Co. School District #3
Greg & Marla Armstrong
Greg Van Tassel
Hans Magden
Heart of Grant County
Heather & Carl Swank
Jake & Kaleigh Bellinger
James & Marion Miller Foundation
Jan O’Rourke
Janet & Bill Robertson
JD-CC Parks & Rec
Jeannette Hueckman
Jenny Workman
Jennie Roller
Jeremy Henderson
Jesse Shaefer
Jessi Brunson & Ryan McNab
Jessica Sordorff
Jill Reeves
Jim & Carrie Bellinger
Jodilee Macy
John Day Methodist Church
John Spencer
Jolene & Floyd
Julian Jordan
Julie Reynolds
Julie Smucker
Juniper Arts Council
Kaeko
Kara Doescher
Karin Barntish
Kathy Moothart
Kathy Moss
Kathy & Dean Rogers
Ken & Julie Ellison
Ken and Bev Peterson
Kim Randleas Fine Art
Kris & Roy Beal
Kris Smith
Land Title of Grant County
Larry and Linda Christensen
Laura Saul
Leon & Susan Pielstick
Levy Flora
Linda Pace
Lindsay & Joe Madden
Lisa Hunter-Kennedy
Liz Lovelock
Lizz & Garrett Blackburn
Logan Randleas
M J Murdock Charitable Trust
Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation
Mark and Sheri Webb
Melody Feden
Michal & Jesse Madden
Morgan & Nick Green
Old West Community Credit Union
Oregon Arts Commission
Oregon Community Foundation
Oregon Cultural Trust
Oregon Department of Forestry
Oregon Trail Electric Co-op
Paul & Kathy Smith
Representative Mark Owens
Representative Rob Nosse
Reser Family Foundation
Rocky Mountain
Dispensary
Roundhouse Foundation
Ryan & Debbie McClellan
Samantha Adams
Senator Findley
Shannon & Jeremy Adair
Sharon Smith
Shaun & Colleen
Robertson
Sherrie Allen
Skirma Bruzaite
Skylar Watson-Vogel
Stacy & James Klusmier
Stacy Durych
Steve & Shelly Fischer
Steve Hendrickson
Subway of John Day
Sue Philo
Terri and John Meiling
Terri Bowden
Tia & Joe Barrietua
Town of Canyon City
Traci Frazier
Tracie & Tim Unterwegner
Venessa & Jeff Ruddy
Vicki & Richard
Thompson
Wendy Monzoula
WEO Media Group
Whisky Gulch Gang
Wintz Family Foundation
Zac & Heather Bailey
Painted Sky Center for the Arts
SPONSORS & PARTNERS
