“The great basin encompasses a vast region from our own backyard here in Central Oregon all the way to Nevada, Utah, and sections of Idaho, Wyoming and California,” says COCC art instructor Justine Lowry. Discover the creative traditions of the Native peoples of the Great Basin region with Lowry at the East Bend and Redmond Libraries as part of the Know Art series being offered this January. The programs are free and open to the public.

January 10, 2015 • 2:00 p.m.
East Bend Library

January 17, 2015 • 2:00 p.m.
Redmond Library

During her presentations, Lowry, with a focus on our local region, will highlight the creative traditions of the Native people who have lived here for generations. “From ancient rock art to contemporary basketry traditions, the Great Basin is teaming with objects of beauty to respect and admire,” she says. The recurring design motifs in the art of the Great Basin relate to patterns seen in nature says Lowry. “These images reflect the seasonal round and important plants and animals that signify the shift in seasons and available food sources,” she says. For the early inhabitants of the Great Basin art was often utilitarian and functional. “Basketry and rock art served as platforms for both communication and storytelling,” Lowry says.

Justine Lowry is part-time faculty for the Art Department at COCC specializing in Native American Art History. Prior to teaching Justine was the Native American Program Coordinator for COCC and coordinated cultural events including the annual COCC Salmon Bake. Justine holds and MA in Visual Arts with research emphasis in Indigenous arts and cultures stemming from her family's rich history including both pioneer and tribal heritage of the Great Basin.

For more information about this or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz at 312-1032.