Local artist Bob Eding to share history of local public art project
Community members are invited to join local artist Bob Eding to learn about the history of the Grants Pass public art installation known as “BearFest” from 1 to 2:30 pm on Saturday, July 22 at the Grants Pass of Josephine Community Library, 200 NW C Street.
During this program, Eding, one of the original BearFest artists, will share the history of this community art project and talk about his other public art installations.
BearFest is a public art project that showcases the talent of Southern Oregon artists. Originally created in 2003, Evergreen Federal Bank introduced BearFest with 20 life-sized, fiberglass bears displayed as public artwork in various locations throughout downtown Grants Pass. Since the beginning of BearFest, nearly 200 bears have been created — some have been auctioned to raise money for local nonprofits.
Bob Eding is a local artist who has been creating public art in southern Oregon for over 25 years. Eding was at the forefront of creating fiberglass bears for the Evergreen Federal Bank BearFest and many other local artists joined the team and contributed to the BearFest journey along the way.
This program is offered at no charge and is open to the public. A library card is not needed to participate.
“History of BearFest” is part of the 2023 Summer Reading Program. The 2023 theme is “Find Your Voice,” sponsored by the State Library of Oregon. For more information about events and activities during the Summer Reading Program, visit josephinelibrary.org, email info@josephinelibrary.org, or call 541-476-0571.