A space for creative community
Located in Bend, Oregon, the Open Arts Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to provide a community-driven space for teens and adults to foster creativity, intergenerational learning, and belonging.
Grand Opening video made by Becca Breed Photography
Apply now to our Artist in Residency!
We’re looking for a Central Oregon artist who isn’t currently able to afford dedicated studio space to participate in our first Artist Residency pilot and receive 6 months of free studio space at the OAC.
We’re especially interested in artists who are curious about social justice, environmental justice, community, belonging, and positive change.
No art degree or extensive exhibition history is required. We’re looking for artists with curiosity, a meaningful creative practice, and a desire to contribute to community.
Applications Open: September 14
Applications Close: October 1
Artists Notified: October 5–9
Move-In: October 12–16
Residency: October 2026 – April 12, 2027
There is no application fee.
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission is to provide a community-driven space for teens and adults to foster creativity, intergenerational learning, and belonging.
Our vision is to be Bend's new home for creative community.
Our Values
Compassion & Respect Collaboration Inclusivity Empowerment Exploration
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Compassion & Respect: We believe in treating everyone with kindness and understanding, honoring our diverse experiences and needs.
Collaboration: We believe that meaningful connections with people and organizations create opportunities for growth, learning, and inspiration, and that by uplifting one another and sharing resources, we can achieve shared community goals.
Inclusivity: We believe everyone deserves a safe and welcoming space to express their creativity freely.
Empowerment: We believe in giving our community the tools and voice to shape our programs and to cultivate confidence in their own creative journeys.
Exploration: We believe in nurturing curiosity by providing the resources and support to help you discover and develop your own creative identity.
Our Offerings & Events
For Teens
When teens have the opportunity to follow their own inner curiosity and intuitive desire, they will have more passion and excitement for learning, creating and cultivating community.
The OAC will provide space for self-directed learning, classes, workshops and community-sourced mentorship
For Adults
We’re dedicating half of our center to adult working artists and creative community members — those who need space not only to make art, but to exchange ideas, ignite collaboration, and build lasting impact.
Adults have the opportunity to rent studio space, become a creative co-working member or sign up classes and programming
Special Community Events
We’re excited to announce our inaugural OAC Music Series starting this October!
Experience intimate live performances, artist stories, and live Q&A in a listening-room setting inside the Rachel Binah Gallery. See shows individually or come to all six!
2026–2027 Lineup
October 16 --- Rooster Blackspur with Bella Cooper
November 13 --- Joel Chadd & Sturtz
December 11 --- Sun Dive with Travis Ehrenstrom
January 15 --- Nathaniel Talbot with special guest TBA
February 19 --- Teen Songwriters in the Round
March 12 --- Alicia Viani & Beth Wood
Grief Open Mic Night with Dia de Muertos Bend & professionals attending the Oregon Suicide Prevention Conference
Tuesday, October 20th 6-8pm
FREE to attend | RSVPs encouraged
We are grateful to our community supporters
“The Open Arts Center will provide Central Oregon with a much-needed safe space where teens can freely express themselves while nurturing their creativity, confidence and sense of belonging.
“As the former Chair of the Oregon Arts Commission, I have seen the power that a community arts center has to inspire growth, resilience and unity in youth. I am excited for The Open Arts Center as I believe it help to create a stronger Central Oregon community.”
- Jenny Green | Former Chair of The Oregon Arts Commission
