Photo by Scott Fenton Babbling brooks, meadows graced with wildflowers, crystal clear glacier lakes, old-growth forests, intricate lava formations and majestic mountains quietly invite visitors and locals to slow down and appreciate their natural elegance. William Shakespeare once said, “I like this place and could willingly waste my time in it.” Time takes on a different meaning when vacationing and living in Sunriver and Central Oregon. It’s measured in enjoying the day and relishing nature’s gifts. Sunriver and Central Oregon serve as pathways to discover countless opportunities to explore the harmony of art and nature. Writers, painters, sculptors, woodcarvers, photographers and artists will discover the abundance of inspiration for their work in Sunriver and Central Oregon. “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir, author, naturalist, philosopher and advocate “Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder.” – E.B. White, writer ART GALLERIES The Artists’ Gallery in The Village at Sunriver highlights the artwork of more than 35 artists who masterfully capture Central Oregon’s beauty. Community members are invited to attend Second Saturday at the Artists’ Gallery every month, 4 to 6 pm while enjoying beverages and food. The Betty Gray Art Gallery at Sunriver Resort’s Lodge features the work of Central Oregon artists. The Nancy McGrath Green Gallery is inside Sunriver Christian Fellowship, 18139 Cottonwood Road in Sunriver. THREE ART EVENTS IN AUGUST The Sunriver Quilt Show kicks off the celebration of art in August, followed by the two-week Sunriver Music Festival and the three-day Sunriver Art Fair. CREATE... Visit The Creator Lab in The Village at Sunriver to learn about its craft projects from making candles to painting pottery. Take a painting class at the Artists’ Gallery, learn how to knit at Misfit Moth. Centrally Oregon builds community for writers and artists in Southern Deschutes County through workshops and events. BOOKS AND BOOK CLUBS Sunriver Books & Music in The Village at Sunriver. The knowledgeable staff can recommend several books, after learning what you like to read. Ask about the mystery and fiction book clubs, or visit sunriverbooks.com to see its calendar. Badlands Artisan Distillery in La Pine has a monthly book club. Visit badistillery.com to learn more. The Sunriver Library hosts monthly programs in conjunction with the Deschutes Public Library. Learn more at deschuteslibrary.org. CELEBRATING COMMUNITY THEATER For performing arts lovers, the Sunriver Stars, the community theatre troupe, delivers hilarious and inspiring productions multiple times a year. Visit sunriverstars.org for the schedule. NATURE, SCIENCE AND ART Learn about Central Oregon’s history and ecology at the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, and the High Desert Museum. Naturally Inspiring Sunriver: 2026-27 | SUNRIVER MAGAZINE 98
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==