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Hey Folks -
A few years ago WR started using a local company to
print
some Paddle Oregon signage. When I first entered the shop to pick up the finished products, I noticed a really nice print for Voyageurs National Park on the wall. That park is in northern
Minnesota. I soon learned that one of the staff, graphic designer
Chris Marron, had designed the print.
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Example of an original WPA poster |
Chris had traveled to Voyagers National park and had a magnificent trip, and felt the park was deserving of the style of Works Progress Administration
(WPA) posters that honored some of the other National Parks. Voyageurs
did not have such art reflecting the park's bounty - so Chris designed
one unofficially for himself. We soon
discussed how cool it would be to do something celebrating the Willamette.
As many of you likely know, the Works Progress Administration (WPA), was part
of FDR's New Deal. The WPA hired millions of workers to build all kinds of buildings across the U.S. - and they also hired artists. As part of the many musicians, painters, actors and more, thousands of pieces
were made covering a variety of subjects. From this
the first posters depicting National Parks were created.
Through the ongoing marketing work with WR, Chris and I likely talked about a Willamette WPA style design for
five years. Finally, in January when I was picking up a
sign order from the shop, Chris and I agreed a
WPA design had to be created for the Willamette.
In Oregon there are many outdoor treasures to celebrate, yet
for whatever reason the Willamette has seldom made the cut
in terms of being a top tier place to spend a bit of time. It is true - it is not wilderness, a national park, or monument. At
the same time, it is accessible to many people, has multiple
natural areas, and is also a great place to paddle a canoe,
kayak, drift boat and more.
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Chris took inspiration from Willamette wildlife, sunsets, native plants and paddlers.
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This piece of art is now here, in honor of this amazing
river. In time, we may even develop a series honoring the
various facets of the Willamette.
There is information below on how to order this unique
print, as well as framing options with our friends at Art Heads. While much of our work is in the trenches of policy, advocacy, education, or in the field conducting restoration - sometimes is good to take a moment to celebrate what is. We hope
you agree.
As always, thanks for your support of our work.
Travis Williams
Riverkeeper & Executive Director
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Order "187 Miles of Wonder" Now
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mat version
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There are a few options for ordering the new Willamette WPA Style print. We have two sizes, and multiple framing options thanks to our friends at Art Heads.
If you just want a print, and wish to have framing done on your own, Art Heads is offering 30% off for all framing services!
Proceeds from this print will help support our work on the Willamette River Greenway and Water Trail.
SMALL (16" x 20")
- Print Only $36 (includes postage)
- With brown frame and glass $150*
- With brown frame, mats, and glass $200*
LARGE (18" x 24")
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frame only version
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- Print Only $46 (includes postage)
- With brown frame and glass $175
- With brown frame, mat, and glass $250
Receiving your order:
"Print only" options will be mailed to you via USPS, while framed options will need to be picked up by you at Art Heads Portland location, and will take about two weeks before they are ready.
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Mighty May |
We've been busy this month! Here's a quick look at what we've been up to.
We hope you will join us for a volunteer event or River Discovery paddle trip soon!
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NEW! Trashy Tuesday Now in Salem- 5/22
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Hop on the water during your lunch break and "Get Dirty For Good" with us in Salem.
WHEN: Tuesday, 5/22 from 11:30am to 1:30pm
DETAILS: Join us as we kick off our first Trashy Tuesday river clean up in downtown Salem! Meet us at the ramp that's near the big gravel bar, and help us pick up trash in the central part of Salem along the Willamette and Minto Brown Island.
Reserve a seat in one of our canoes, or bring your own boat. We will provide trash bags, non latex gloves, and trash pickers. Dress for the weather and paddling (layers, boots, and rain gear). We will spend about an hour or so on the water.
If river conditions evolve to become too challenging or unsafe, we will cancel in advance.
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Greenway Celebration Paddle- 6/16
Pick up a paddle and celebrate the Willamette River Greenway with Willamette Riverkeeper and our friends at Oregon State Parks!
Enjoy a scenic paddle trip from downtown Salem to the Wheatland Ferry where we'll observe wildlife while learning more about the river, its history, and our combined efforts to improve habitat.
WHEN: Saturday, 6/16 from 9:30am - 3:30pm
DETAILS: We will run a FREE shuttle service for this trip! Meet us at Wallace Marine Park at 9:30am. We'll aim to launch from the gravel bar by 10:00am. At the take out, we'll drive you and your boats back to Wallace Marine Park.
Riverkeeper canoes are available to reserve upon request FREE of charge (you must recruit your own paddling partner), or feel free to join us in your own canoe or kayak. Rentals include paddles and PFDs. If you bring your own boat, you must wear your PFD and have a whistle accessible, as required by the US Coast Guard.
Plan to be on the river for about 4.5 hours. Be sure to dress for conditions and pack extra layers, sun glasses, hat, sunscreen, water, snacks and a lunch.
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This month's Elk Rock Island Paddle and Plant Walk was a great success. Good news: there is more fun to be had!
Join the Native Plant Society of Oregon (NPSO), Portland chapter, partnering organizations, and friends in celebrating and exploring native plants in all their springtime glory! Throughout May, Native Plant Month (NPM-PDX) features workshops, guided hikes, and presentations that serve to promote a greater appreciation and knowledge of our local native plants and highlight the importance of protecting and preserving these valuable species.
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Wild Iris on Elk Rock Island
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Highlighted events include:
- Native plant walks at local parks in and near Portland
- Forest and historical site outings featuring topics such as fire ecology
- Botanical illustration and crafting workshop
- Native Plant Keying / Botany Workshop
More information about dates, times, and registration can be found at npmpdx.org.
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Folks, registration is filling up! We anticipate that once again, we will need to close registration early. Don't risk getting shut out! Come and discover why our award winning Paddle Oregon adventure is the premier multi-day experience offered on our National Willamette River Water Trail.
Your enjoyable, educational, environmentally focused vacation awaits at www.PaddleOregon.org.
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Not yet a member? Join us today!
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