The Columbia Gorge Museum is excited to unveil its new art exhibition, WALKING IN MY SHOES: A Perspective on Military Service by Charles Burt, opening on November 23, 2024. This exhibition will allow its viewers to experience a unique perspective on the military and the lives of its members. 

After 20 years of active-duty service Burt retired from the Army but had a tough time adjusting to civilian culture. Seeking a way to connect with other disciplined and dedicated people, he met artists who shared his work ethic and a strong drive to succeed.

From this spark, he started taking art courses at the local community college and completed five years of intensive fine art atelier training at Gage Academy of Art in Seattle. During his last two years of atelier training, Burt began a series of paintings titled Seven Army Values. These are invitations for civilians to find new ways of thinking about military service.

After retiring from the Army, he developed a tremor in his dominant hand and was later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Painting fine art pieces while battling a tremor is another challenge that he faces head-on.

He hopes his art and his life story inspire other veterans to work toward their own goals even after they leave the supportive structures of the military.

A special public opening will be at 2 pm on November 23 where Charles Burt will be in attendance. For more details on the exhibition and to RSVP, please visit the Columbia Gorge Museum’s website.

The Columbia Gorge Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in Stevenson, WA. It is known for collections honoring the tribal communities from the region, past and present, the largest rosary collection, as well as art and artifacts from industry and families throughout our history. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Every first Saturday of the month is free for Skamania County residents.

Vancouver, WA — The award-winning Clark College Orchestra performs their Fall Concert of the 2024-2025 Grand Finale season under the baton of Music Director/Conductor Dr. Donald Appert on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, 7:30 pm at Skyview High School, 81300 NW 139th St. Vancouver, WA. 

The program features works by Coleridge-Taylor, Harty, and Chadwick as well as one of Dr. Appert’s compositions, “Vignette for String Orchestra.” The admission is free and open to the public.  

For complete information about all the Clark College Music Department concerts including the orchestra, concert band, jazz ensemble, and choirs, please see http://www.clark.edu/campus-life/arts-events/music/music-concerts.

Donald Appert has appeared as a guest conductor in Japan, Australia, Central America, and throughout Europe.  In Italy La’ovadese wrote, “…the performance of the ‘Serenade in C Major’ of Tchaikovsky, under the exceptional direction of Appert, was in such a style that it brought out the elegance and grace of the melodic lines with Mozartian inspiration.  …The L’Orchestra Sinfonica Città di Grosseto… performed the Barber ‘Adagio’ with rare effectiveness, emphasizing its intrinsically rich melody.”  Giornale di Sicilla praised his interpretation of Nielsen’s First Symphony as “lyrical with an airy freshness,” and his conducting as “precise, painstakingly accurate, and diligent.” He has guest conducted orchestras in France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Macedonia, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Russia, El Salvador, and Japan.He currently serves as the Music Director/Conductor of the Oregon Sinfonietta and the Jewish Community Orchestra of Portland.

Dr. Appert was awarded the 2020 Winner of The American Prize in Orchestral Programming. He won this same award in 2011 and in 2015 was named an Honored Artist by The American Prize Competition.  He is a recipient of the 2019 – 2020 Clark College Exceptional Faculty Awards, several ASCAPLUS Awards in recognition of his performances of his own compositions in Italy, Qatar, Europe, Central America, Japan, and the United States.  In 2014, Dr. Appert received the Clark County Arts Commission Lifetime Achievement in the Arts Award, and in 2009, he received the Washington Community College Humanities Association Exemplary Status Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Humanities. 2024-2025 marks Dr. Appert’s 35th year of teaching at Clark College and of conducting the college orchestra. Under his leadership, the orchestra has grown from 15 to over 80 musicians and the orchestra library has grown from 100 titles to over 470.

Vancouver, WA —  The Clark College Jazz Bands, under the direction of Dr. Doug Harris present their Fall Concert on Saturday, November 23, 2024, 7:30 pm in the Gaiser Student Center, Clark College Campus. Admission to the performance free and open to the public. Donations to the Clark College Music Department are welcome at the door.

 “How often do you have a chance to witness history? Well, on November 23rd, 2024, you have the opportunity to do so! I am proud to introduce the newest ensemble at Clark College: our second Jazz Band! The growth of the program at Clark has been amazing and we are so excited to share it with you,” said Harris. “Our first concert this year showcases both Jazz I and II and we will present the music of a wide range of composers, to include Count Basie, Tom Kubis, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Gordon Goodwin and Mercer Ellington, among others. Along with the first performance of Jazz II, Jazz has begun its preparations for our upcoming trip to Cuba in the Spring of 2025…sure to be a life-changing experience for all of us. We look forward to seeing you there.”

For complete information about all the Clark College Music Department concerts including the orchestra, concert band, jazz band, and choirs, please see http://www.clark.edu/campus-life/arts-events/music/music-concerts.

Bio

Dr. Doug Harris is the Director of Bands at Clark College since 2018 after serving as Assistant Director of Bands at Western Kentucky University, and Director of Bands at both Santa Clara University and Southern Utah University. He also enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a high school band director in Florida. Dr. Harris received his Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Florida, his Master of Arts and Doctor of Arts from the University of Northern Colorado. 

His conducting teachers include Richard W. Bowles, Dr. Raymond Chobaz, Dr. German Gutierez, Dr. Richard Mayne and Dr. Kenneth Singleton, and has studied with Douglas Akey, Stanley Derusha, John Paynter and Frank Batiste. At his most recent high school, Palm Bay High School in Melbourne, FL., his concert and jazz bands were recognized as being among the elite in the state, regularly receiving highest marks at district and state festivals. The Wind Ensemble was invited to perform at the University of Florida Invitational Concert Band Festival as well as the prestigious Bands of America National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis. The top jazz band performed at, and won, jazz festivals in Florida, Georgia and Virginia, and has earned praise while performing with jazz notables such as Ira Sullivan, Bill Prince, Marc Dickman, Christian Tamburr, Maynard Ferguson, David Steinmeyer, Bobby Shew and Portland’s own Charlie Porter.

Vancouver, WA — The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

Journey Theater is thrilled to provide family-friendly musical theater, featuring a cast of talented, local youth, to the greater community! Tickets are on sale now at journeytheater.org or by calling 360.750.8550. Adult tickets are $19. Youth and senior tickets are $17. Tickets are be $2 more at the door.

Performances at Fort Vancouver High School

  • Saturday, November 23rd at 2 pm and @ 7 pm
  • Sunday, November 24th at 2 pm
  • Saturday, November 30th at 2 pm and 7 pm
  • Sunday, December 1st at 2 pm

Journey is a Jesus-centered theater arts program that exists to grow youth and their families in character and purpose to be difference-makers in their world.

Serving Clark County since 2002, Journey is a 501(c)3 nonprofit educational organization, with offices located at 1400 NE 136th Ave, Suite 201, Vancouver WA, 98684. Contact at 360.750.8550 or www.journeytheater.org 

Camas, WA — RedDoor Gallery downtown Camas is proud to announce three new artists whose work is now on exhibit for show and sale. Area residents are invited to view original pastels by Catherine Snyder, original oils by Kimmie Burmaster and original acrylics by Gail Harrington at a special First Friday Art Walk reception in their honor on Friday, November 1st from 5-8 pm. The reception features complimentary refreshments, delicious charcuterie and RedDoor Gallery’s signature chocolate truffles.

Since opening in May, the art gallery, located in the historic building at 411 NE Dallas Street in downtown Camas, has featured new work each month by artists Sarah Bang, Shirley Bishop, Matthew Clarkson, Heidi Curley, Cheryl  Folkers, Dave Garbot, Cheryl Mathieson, Liz Pike and Tamra Sheline.  With the recent remodel of RedDoor’s new Mezzanine Gallery exhibition space, RedDoor Gallery is also representing acrylic artist George Throop and oil paint artist Wendy Davis. A reception for Throop and Davis will take place at First Friday on December 6th. The gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 7 pm and by special appointment.

Pastel artist Catherine Snyder is inspired by music, beautiful settings, loving acts of kindness and extraordinary courage.

“I have a passion for color and love to experiment with pastels,” said Snyder. 

Her work has garnered many first place awards in shows around the region. See it now in the mezzanine level at RedDoor Gallery.

Kimmie Burmaster paints in oils on canvas and appreciates the rich texture and flexibility of working in oils. 

“People are among my favorite subjects to  paint,” says Burmaster. 

She also enjoys painting still life and landscape paintings. A variety of her work is now on exhibit in the mezzanine level at RedDoor Gallery.

Lastly, Camas artists Gail Harrington has also joined RedDoor Gallery. She works primarily with acrylic and mixed media. 

“I’m inspired by nature, music, scripture and other artists’ work,” said Harrington. 

Her work illuminates, with a quiet yet expressive freedom. See her large format works of art at RedDoor Gallery for the first time on Friday, November 1st.

Quickly becoming the “art hub of Camas,” RDG invites visitors to experience the joy and transformative power of art inside its red door! The gallery’s mission is to provide a vibrant art space open to the public and foster a creative art-making community. In addition to a gallery of fine art, quality art instructional classes are offered in RDG’s professionally equipped studio. Visit RDG on the web at RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail RedDoorGalleryCamas@gmail.com

RedDoor
“Misty River” original pastel by Catherine Snyder

RedDoor
“Green Vase” original oil on canvas by Kimmie Burmaster

Battle Ground, WA — Journey Theater is bringing “Finding Nemo, Jr.” on stage beginning November 7. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Tickets on sale now at journeytheater.org or by calling 360.750.8550. Youth and senior tickets are $13. Adult tickets are $16. Tickets for all performances will be $2 more at the door. School day performances take place on November 14 and tickets start at $7.

Performances at Manor Evangelical Church 17913 NE 72nd Ave., Battle Ground

  • Thursday, Nov 7-6 pm
  • Friday, Nov 8-7 pm
  • Saturday, Nov 9-2 & 7 pm
  • Friday, Nov 15 – 7 pm
  • Saturday, Nov 16 – 2 & 7 pm

About Journey Theater 

Journey is a Jesus-centered, nonprofit theater arts program that exists to grow youth and their families in character and purpose to be difference-makers in their world. Journey has been serving Clark County families and patrons since 2002. Offices located at 1400 NE 136th Ave, Suite 201, Vancouver WA, 98684. Contact at 360.750.8550 or www.journeytheater.org

Vancouver, WA — The Clark College Music Department is hosting the 9th Annual Fall Choral Festival on Friday, November 15, 2024 in Gaiser Student Center on the campus of Clark College. A total of 18 area middle and high school chamber and concert choirs will sing in this non-competitive festival which runs from 8 am to 4 pm.  Tickets are $5/person for the day.

Clinicians for this festival include: Dr. Katy Green, Dr. John Guarente, Dr. Shohei Kobayashi, and Dr. Tiffany Walker.

“I’m thrilled that we’ll have so many choirs visiting campus for our festival and I’m excited to hear the great work they are doing,” says Festival Director Dr. Jacob Funk, who is also the Director of Choirs at Clark College. “Participating choirs get the chance to work with some highly skilled clinicians and receive written feedback on their performance. Each choir will also get to have a mini-clinic onstage, allowing for the other schools to see how a different choir learns new ways to succeed. Two of the Clark College Choirs will perform for all the participating choirs in the middle of the festival. It will be a wonderful time of music making, learning, and supporting each other in song.”

For complete information about all the Clark College Music Department concerts including the orchestra, concert band, jazz ensemble, and choirs, please see http://www.clark.edu/campus-life/arts-events/music/music-concerts.

Washougal Studio Artists proudly presents their 4th Annual Holiday Art Market Tour, Saturday and Sunday, November 16th and 17th, 10 am-4 pm.

This is your opportunity to visit 13 artists’ studios and enjoy the work of 25 talented local artists. Come learn what inspires the artists and learn how they have developed their processes. Ask questions and experience the creative studio environment where art is being made. The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a biannual event that draws visitors from all over the region, and we are excited to share it with you. Explore an amazing array of works in fused glass, textiles, bronze sculpture, painting, jewelry, mixed media, collage, ceramics and photography.

Participating artists include the following:

  • Studio #1: Trish Johnson (studio owner), watercolors; Keith Russell, painting and drawing.
  • Studio #2: Sandy Moore (studio owner), mixed media fabric collage and home decor; Sharon Buckmaster, mixed media wearable art; Jeanine Clark, painting, drawing, wearables.
  • Studio #3: Tamara Dinius (studio owner), mixed media; Phyllis Carter, fused glass; Toni McCarthy, beaded and metal jewelry.
  • Studio #4: Liz Nye, mixed media, photography, textiles.
  • Studio #5: Regina Westmoreland, mixed media.
  • Studio #6: Debbie Nagano, mixed media.
  • Studio #7: Judi Clark, painting, drawing.
  • Studio #8: Ellen Nordgren, mixed media.
  • Studio #9: Shirley Bishop (studio owner), fused glass & home décor; Kathy Marty; hand-woven rugs and home décor; Marina Pearson, acrylic painting and drawing; John Relyea, woodworking.
  • Studio #10: /Susan Fronckowiak (studio owner), painting, photography; Anna Norris, painting, ceramics; Blythe Ayne, photography.
  • Studio#11: LesleyAnne Ezelle (studio owner), ceramics and alpaca fiber;
  • Studio #12: David Van Zandt (studio owner) bronze sculpture & acrylic painting; Charlene Hale, glass.
  • Studio #13: Mica Wilson (studio owner), painting, drawing; Elaine Lim, painting, drawing.
  • The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a wonderful way to spend the day. There is a great joy in experiencing art firsthand, buying local and giving your special friends and loved ones original pieces of art. Here is your chance to meet the makers, to

learn about their processes, and to find truly special holiday or birthday gifts. Or maybe you’ll be inspired to sign up for a class. 

Many of these artists also offer classes from their studios. For further information: Shirley Bishop 360-991-3081 —

https://www.washougalstudioartists.org/

Vancouver, WA — The Nutter Family Foundation, founded by Jerry and Renee Nutter in 2008, is a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of children. The Foundation believes when children are given the opportunity to develop their talents society thrives.

In following in her parents’ footsteps and to further the mission of Dozer Day®, Dozer Day® Paves the Way, is a children’s book authored by the Nutter’s daughter, Sammi Nutter Charlton. This fun new read reflects fundamental values that characterize Dozer Day®: learning and education, pursuing your passions, playing an active role in your community, and serving others. Accompanied by lively illustrations, readers will read along as Dozer Dan participates in the event year after year. Inspired by his childhood fascination with dozers, Dozer Dan grows up to become a volunteer and operator himself.

How will Dozer Day® inspire children to explore the construction industry and make a difference in their communities? Take part in this grand movement and help support the cause by spreading knowledge and fun through Dozer Day® Paves the Way.

Pre-order on Amazon: https://qr1.be/CMRG

Dozer Day

RedDoor Gallery (RDG) is pleased to present works by Elaine Lim in a special Emerging Artist Exhibition that runs October 11th through December 11th. The public is invited to an artist reception honoring Lim on Friday, October 18th from 5 pm to 7 pm. 

”The Emerging Artist Exhibition is a brand new feature at RedDoor Gallery,” said Liz Pike, one of the partners inside the red door. “As an art hub in Camas, it’s important for RedDoor Gallery to lift up new, talented artists who are eager to launch their creative career. We are delighted to feature Elaine Lim in our inaugural exhibition for emerging artists.”

Elaine Lim, an emerging watercolor artist based in the Pacific Northwest, has carved out a niche for herself by capturing the beauty of the coast. Elaine’s artistic journey started at a young age, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of nature. Over the years, she explored various mediums, but it was watercolor that truly stole her heart. The unpredictability and spontaneity of watercolor painting challenged her to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the imperfections. Lim has taken several watercolor classes taught by Tamra Sheline, a partner and art instructor at RedDoor Gallery. 

“I have learned so much from Tamra. She is an inspiration to me,” says Lim. “My watercolor paintings are an ode to the ocean, a celebration of its power and ever-changing beauty.” 

Through her art, she strives to capture not only the visual splendor of the coast, but also its intangible qualities – the sense of curiosity it evokes and the power it embodies. 

“I want my paintings to transport viewers to the edge of the sea, and to feel the cool salty spray of the ocean on their skin,” she added.

Three of Lim’s works were accepted by a jury to enter the 2024 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, showcasing her talent to a broader audience. Through her art, Lim strives to create pieces that resonate on a personal level with her viewers, believing that art is not just a visual experience but an emotional one. Her paintings offer a calming, immersive experience, inviting viewers to find beauty in the simplest of things. She aims to provide a sanctuary in her art collectors’ private spaces. Lim is also donating a portion of proceeds from her sold pieces inside RedDoor Gallery to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to support ocean conservation efforts, reflecting her commitment to safeguard the beauty of oceans for future generations.

Every 60 days, a new emerging artist will be featured in the newly remodeled mezzanine level at RedDoor Gallery. Since opening last May, the art gallery, located in the historic building at 411 NE Dallas Street in downtown Camas, has featured new work each month by artists Sarah Bang, Shirley Bishop, Matthew Clarkson, Heidi Curley, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, David Gerton, Cheryl Mathieson, Liz Pike and Tamra Sheline. The recent remodel in RedDoor’s new Mezzanine Gallery exhibition space allowed the gallery to jury in five new artists. The gallery will honor artists Kimmie Burmaster, Wendy Davis, Gail Harrington, Catherine Snyder and George Throop at a special artists’s reception on First Friday, November 1st from 5-8 pm.

As the art hub of Camas, RDG invites visitors to experience the joy and transformative power of art inside its red door. The gallery’s mission is to provide a vibrant art space open to the public and foster a creative art-making community. In addition to a gallery of fine art, quality art instructional classes are offered in RDG’s professionally equipped studio. Visit RDG on the web at RedDoorGalleryCamas.com. For more information, call 360-281-8720 or e-mail RedDoorGalleryCamas@gmail.com