Art is all around us. In small scale, as postcards and stickers, to large murals, sculptures and architecture. Hood River specifically, does big art well, with large pieces dotted around the city’s landscape that make up the Hood River BIG ART Outdoor Gallery. Consisting of 16 sculptures, you’ll pass them downtown, walk by them on paths along the river, spy them at intersections and use them as directional landmarks, “I’ll meet you at Frog beach!” This amazing outdoor gallery is brought to us by Art of Community, a local art-focused organization that the Port of Hood River has proudly sponsored and supported for over 10 years. Established in 2014, Art of Community has a vision to “Inspire community engagement and helps create a sense of place, awareness, optimism, discussion, and identity throughout the Gorge.” The big art features are chosen by a panel of local artists, installed and enjoyed by the community on a two-year term. For the 2022-24 term the Port of Hood River sponsored two installations: “Inspiration” by Joseph Rastovich, and “Eggtimer” by Rodger Squirrell. The Port has also chosen to support local artists by purchasing sculptures to be permanently displayed and enjoyed by the community. You can find “The Thinker” by Ralph Tretheway, “N’Chi Wanapum” by Foster Kalama, and “Constellations” by CJ Rench on highly visited Port-owned properties along the waterfront. Pick a sunny day, grab a friend and e-bike and explore the Hood River BIG ART Outdoor Gallery, just one of the many beautiful and unique things about our community. For more information on Art of Community, to sponsor an artist, or find Port sponsored installations, visit art-of-community.com

“Inspiration” by Joseph Rastovich

“Eggtimer” by Rodger Squirrell

“The Thinker” by Ralph Tretheway

“N’Chi Wanapum” by Foster Kalama

“Constellations” by CJ Rench