These new paintings are abstractions of the barns, factories and mills in rural Oregon. The picture plane is often flattened to focus on the angles and shapes. This series has an emphasis on line, and as in past work, Gray continues to explore color, texture and composition.  She says about the “Structure” series: “I am fascinated by the scale and geometry of the buildings in the open landscape.”

Jenny Gray is an artist and commercial graphic designer living in Monroe, OR. Subjects for Gray’s art range from landscapes, to pure abstracts and now on to explorations of the human/organic  vs. the structural/mechanical.  For Gray, inspiration is found in nature, landscape, typography, inexpensive printing, vintage patterns, and decaying towns.

Located downtown, across from the Hult Center, OPUS VII is a niche of creativity that beckons passers-by to meander in. Large antique frames suspended from the ceiling light the gallery, and also emphasize the attention to detail seen not only in the artwork but in the venue itself. There are a wide variety of pieces on display, ranging from oils-on-canvas to metal sculptures, photographs, quilts, and jewelry. The Designing Sound: A Visual Exploration into Sound and Music exhibition (July 1 though August 13) displayed the work of 16 artists whose creations were designed to reflect the production of sound. The gallery also acts as a community gathering place, holding private events that can accommodate up to 350 people. OPUS VII is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5:30 pm.

Gallery at a glance. (2011, Fall). Eugene Magazine, VI(3), 134.

Eugene has long been called Track Town USA, but it might as well be called Music City, judging from an exhibit that opens with a reception Friday evening and runs through the month at Opus VII in Eugene.

“Designing Sound,” curated by Cindy Ingram, Opus’ now-departing director of membership and events, bills itself as “A Visual Exploration Into Sound and Music.”

Designing Sound: A Visual Exploration into Sound and Music

What that means, in fact, is that Ingram — who also works as a music promoter in town — has assembled a fascinating array of paraphernalia from just about every corner of Eugene’s music world.

“I expect visitors to find surprises around each corner,” she says. “Expect strange and delightful sounds coming from works of art, visual explanation of how sound is bent and transformed. There’s even a piece exposing the personal experience of musical creativity. Eugene has never seen anything like this before.”

The exhibit ranges from classically serious to impossibly quirky.

Eugene’s master organ builder, John Brombaugh, contributed photos of his massive pipe organs — no actual organs, unfortunately, as they tend to be less than portable — as well as a charming clavichord he once built.

Continuing in that classical vein, violin-maker David Gusset has a display of the stages of violin creation, starting with the raw wood.

At the other end of the spectrum, trumpeter Brian McWhorter, a University of Oregon School of Music and Dance professor, has contributed a Rube Goldberg-ish gadget he calls “The Extractorama” — an old-fashioned bathtub outfitted with everything from a telephone to a built in trumpet, at least of sorts.

In some ways, this might be a music exhibition for the hard of hearing. Instead of music itself, Ingram has assembled the accoutrements of music.

Billy Barnett’s Gung-Ho Studio is represented by a 1980s-vintage reel-to-reel recorder, perhaps once used to record the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies here.

Perhaps the coolest and most inscrutable of items on display is the “New Rage Ambient Metal Music Machine” by composer Don Haugen. He has wired a couple of iPods to speaker magnets behind three large flat panels of sheet metal. Just imagine the harmonic possibilities.

There are futuristic electric instruments, low-tech music posters and a parabolic reflector that’s fun to stand in front of and talk to.

In its latest incarnation, Opus VII has been steadily finding its way as a new venue for museumlike exhibits. This one is certainly an intriguing success.

Originally appeared: Thursday, June 29, 2011
Article here

Ballet Fantastique

OPUS VII announces a live dance performance to take place in conjunction with the art work of Anne Teigen, during The First Friday Artwalk in June.

Ballet Fantastique will present a short series of original ballet excerpts choreographed by Donna and Hannah Bontrager from their upcoming “Pirates & Gypsies” program at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. Dancers will be available from 6:00-8:00pm for a meet and greet session prior to, and following the dance performance.

More about Ballet Fantastique:

Comprised of seven stunning dancers directed by mother-daughter team Donna and Hannah Bontrager, Ballet Fantastique presents productions full of sizzle and spice. Hailed as “la creme de la creme” (Eugene Weekly), Ballet Fantastique’s all-original choreography infuses ballet with diverse new style, brave musical choices (from tango to Metallica), and passionate expression. http://www.balletfantastique.org/

More about “Just Dancin’”:

“Just Dancin’” is a show that has been in the back of Anne Teigen’s mind for many years, waiting to be developed.  She initially resisted because the theme conjures up graceful, lovely, soft, ethereal images – “I don’t do “lovely, soft”, says Anne.  But “dance as a theme continued to stay in her head as a challenge, and since she likes a challenge, a year and a half ago, she finally decided to go for it.  Teigen’s large and colorful paintings show dance as a strong communication of joy, friendship, community, discipline, and at times a little silliness.  http://www.ateigenstudio.com/

OPUS VII

There’s no doubt that presentation is paramount at OPUS VII.  From the very beginning, our intention was to create a beautiful space that Eugene could own and support.
John Rowell of Rowell Brokaw Architects not only oversaw our OPUS VII renovation, he spearheaded the original dramatic transformation from generic office spaces under the Parcade to an exquisite retail showroom that originally housed Oveissi and Company. Rowell Brokaw and the OPUS VII space have won numerous architectural awards, including: the AIA/SWO Design Award: Special Recognition for Excellence in Detailing; the People’s Choice Award at the Eugene Celebration; and the IIDA/AIA Honor Award.

We offer:

• Prime Downtown Eugene location
• Across the street from Hult Center performances
• 6,000 sq. ft. of architectural space
• Ideal event venue
• Reconfigurable space with ultimate layout flexibility
• Established relationships with area arts and tourism organizations
• Access and visibility on main artery (7th Avenue)
• High traffic exposure (more than 40,000 cars per day)
• Ample adjacent parking
• Middle of gallery district and performing arts venues
• Nearby retail, restaurants, and services

OPUS VII is a perfect place to hold your special event.  Rental rates vary depending on your event’s specific needs and on the catering package that you select. A basic rental package starts at $1,000. Discounts are available for members of OPUS VII and may vary based on your catering needs. To learn more about event hosting and get a custom quote please contact Cindy Ingram, Director of Membership and Events, or check availability here.

Let OPUS VII host your next social event.

OPUS VII is an ever-changing fine art gallery and exhibition hall approximately 5,600 square feet in size.  The space invites exploration and interaction with the current installations as well as stimulating conversation among guests, while offering facilities for bar service, catering, and live entertainment.

Items available on site to include:

• Full-service professional kitchen for catering
• One small meeting room
• Two bathrooms
• 50+ chairs
• Two 6-ft folding tables with linens
• One podium
• Coat rack
• Two granite topped bars/serving counters
• A variety of pedestals in several colors and sizes
• On-site production staff during all events

Catering by Perugino

OPUS VII invites you to explore Perugino’s catering options. Perugino specializes in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. From fruits and nuts to fine meats and cheeses; decadent deserts to fine wines, Perugino’s presentation and quality is exceptional. Packages start at $12 per person.

OPUS VII also has a variety of catering partnerships to best meet the theme of your event. Both full-service and no host bar options are available.

[Show as slideshow]

Last spring, more than 700 people attended the fashion show, Carnival of Couture, and more than 55 local designers, 120 models and 100 volunteers contributed in creating a successful event.

“Our goal this April is to give local designers, an opportunity to showcase their work to the community. The Eugene community supports many artistic endeavors, and we would like to establish apparel design as a legitimate artistic medium,” says Mitra Chester, owner of Deluxe and Kitsch.

Deluxe, Kitsch and the Redoux Parlour offer both resale and locally designed women’s and men’s clothing, jewelry, shoes and accessories. They distinguish themselves from other stores in Eugene by offering a combination of resale and original Indie-made apparel consigned by local designers and made in-house.

Eugene Fashion Week Schedule

Friday, April 22, 2011:  Earth Day Fashion show at Agate Hall (sustainable apparel only). All ages. Show begins at 7 p.m.

Saturday, April 23, 2011:  Ready to Wear show at Opus VII. 21+ show. Show begins at 8 p.m.

Friday, April 29, 2011:  Club Wear show at Cowfish. 21+ show. Show begins at 9 p.m.

Saturday, April 30, 2011:  Costume and Avant Garde show at Oak St. Speakeasy. 21+ show. Show begins at 9 p.m.

Sunday, May 1, 2011:  All Ages show at Cozmic Pizza. Show begins at 7 p.m.

($20 five-day passes or $5 presale for each show or $7 at the door.)

For more information, please contact Anne Leverdier at aleverdi@uoregon.edu or (541) 525-6348.

Eugene Fashion Week featured on KEZI here.

Collections of letters have become a literary genre in their own right.  Tonight we celebrate a few genius letter writers for your listening pleasure.

John and Abigail Adams.
A famous collection that is interesting, not only for the depth of
their love for each other, but for how it chronicles the birth of the nation.
Read by Matthew Bonham and Laura Robinson.

George Bernard Shaw and Ellen Terry.
The giant of letter writing – GB Shaw – and the actress Ellen Terry.
Wit and tenderness combined in a life-long exchange between two artists
of the theatre. Read by David Kessler and Ellen Chace

Virgina Woolfe and Vita Sackville-West.
A famous relationship! Two woman of literature and their love for their
art and for each other. Read by Jorah LaFleur and Cassidy Slaughter-Mason.

Live fiddle performance by Chester Carmer – well known local musician. Most recently seen providing music for The Grapes of Wrath at Cottage Theatre.

Facebook invite page here.  For more information contact Cindy Ingram, Director of Membership and Events at OPUS VII or Cai Emmons.

More about “Of Words and Music” – Introducing literature and music to Opus VII’s elegant gallery space, the “Of Words and Music” Series will provide early evening performances that weave the written word with instrumental music and song, to create a stimulating aural tapestry.  Come after work to enjoy a glass of wine and beautiful sounds. From 5:30-7:00 on the first Thursday of each month.

Photo Courtesy of Eugene Fashion Week

By Amanda Bedortha, Special Publications for the Register Guard

Spring is upon us, and local fashion designers Mira Fannin, Allison Ditson and Mitra Chester have been on the lookout for elements to incorporate into their clothing lines. Each of the women is busily preparing for Fashion Week, to be held at various venues in Eugene April 22 to May 1. Each designer offers a distinct view on what to expect from the season.

“We’ll be seeing a lot of natural whites and creams this season,” speculates Mira, designer of Sweet Skins, a clothing line sold at The Eco Boutique in Eugene. “Also black and natural stripes mixed with feminine touches like rosettes, subtle frills and crochet accents.”

Mira, 37, likes to design clothing that makes women feel naturally beautiful. “My style is kind of classic and simple, so women can mix it up and really make it their own,” she says.

While Mira has her eyes on neutral tones, Allison — who goes by Alli and is the designer of Allihalla clothing — has been surprised by reemerging bright colors and vibrant prints, especially on ’70s-style flowing dresses.

“I’ve noticed a number of tribal-ish fabrics in numerous looks and a general ’70s bohemian rough look,” says the 22-year-old. She predicts a less intense rendition of these styles in town this spring, with longer skirts and the low-rise, flair shape for pants again. She also predicts a “leather and fur embracing style to surface as well.”

Alli’s father taught her how to draw up patterns from her own measurements. Both her parents supported her interest in fashion.

“I think it’s really important for people to realize they don’t have to dress like everyone else,” she says.

Mitra Chester, co-owner of Deluxe in Eugene, sees ruffles, flared and high-waisted skirts, ’50s-inspired dresses, floral prints, yellow and orange colors, and swimsuits inspired by vintage lingerie.

Rompers also are emerging with springtime, Mitra says.

“Fashion is about attitude,” the 35-year-old mother of two says. “Almost anything flies these days, if you can pull it off. Skinny, flare, long, short; it doesn’t matter, as long as you look good and feel good.”

Mitra confidently wears a high-waisted skirt she deftly fashioned from a bed ruffle.

In addition to designing clothes, Mitra teaches sewing to budding fans of fashion. Cutting patterns, learning techniques — it all takes practice.

For Mira, fashion is about women looking their best and setting an example for others to follow, not about following trends.

“I love being a designer, for the very purpose of being of service to women in the way of helping them look and feel their best,” she says.

Here in the Northwest, wearing high heels in the pouring rain isn’t always practical — even if we think we look our best. And it can be quite wet and chilly well into May. Mitra recommends floral-print sundresses and rompers that can be layered with cardigans to ward against the unpredictable weather. “Wear tights under shorts if it is still chilly out. There are some great short-sleeved jackets out there right now,” too, Mitra says.

Alli agrees: “I always think it’s practical and stylish to dress in layers, especially in Eugene where one must always be prepared for warm and cool weather.” Spring is the perfect season to mix it up and experiment with unusual combinations, she suggests, such as warm socks with bare legs or a jacket with a camisole inside.

“Also, spring is a great time to start busting out the accessories,” Alli says. The easiest way to prolong the wear of a winter staple is to update your look by using bright accessories: “Black can be a spring color if it’s the stabilizing base for a bright necklace or scarf and coordinated belt,” she advises.

Looking forward, Mitra says Deluxe will be receiving a new shipment of sunglasses and floral tights this spring, and she hopes to see new swimsuits and sundresses.

In addition to its own line of organic apparel, Sweet Skins at The Eco Boutique also offers clothing styles and accessories for men. This spring Mira is adding printed cottons and crocheted tops to the clothing line.

Alli plans to create spring styles that merge the floral feminine look with a more edgy tone. “Like sweet spring dresses and accessories with leather fringe or heavy zippers,” she says.

Alli adds, “I love combining unusual styles and figuring out how to make them work.”

Originally appeared: Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Article here

Eugene Fashion Week: Ready to Wear will be at Opus VII on Saturday, April 23, with an opening performance by Mood Area 52 at 6:30. 21+, please. Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door, and available at Deluxe, Redoux and Kitsch beginning Thursday, April 8th.

Photos from the evening:

[Show as slideshow]