About Oregon Contemporary

Oregon Contemporary’s symbol is an O (symbolizing Oregon and Oregon Contemporary’s large, bowl-like gallery space) raised to the power of x (inspired by John Cage’s advice to break all rules by “leaving plenty of room for ‘x’ quantities”).

Mission

Oregon Contemporary is a space dedicated to art, community, and the exponential possibilities of contemporary art. We produce powerful, visionary art programs for the communities of Oregon. 

Vision

We believe artists provide unique, forward-thinking ways of connecting people to the nuanced issues that define modern life. We regularly promote voices and points of view—regional to international—that have been historically underrepresented in the arts, and engage these populations to impact and intervene in the contemporary arts dialogue.

By showcasing any and all forms of art in our exhibitions and events, Oregon Contemporary supports and empowers artists, curators, and performers, presenting singular experiences for the public every month. Through individual and business donations, as well as grant support, Oregon Contemporary is able to pay arts producers fairly for their work, while offering the majority of our programs to audiences free of charge.

Oregon Contemporary is W.A.G.E. certified. W.A.G.E. Certification is a national program initiated and operated by W.A.G.E. that publicly recognizes those nonprofit arts organizations demonstrating a history of, and commitment to, voluntarily paying artist fees that meet payment standards.