Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust
By Emily Hunter | 01/06/2022 | Art Galleries, Museums & History, Outdoor Adventure, Things to Do

THE CELEBRATE OREGON! MURAL

You might have seen a beautiful new addition to Medford’s airport. From a distance, the “Celebrate Oregon!” Cultural Trust mural is a vibrant tapestry of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains. Look closer, and the 127 symbols unearth stories of bright history and heritage. From award-winning food and wine, to the glorious hiking and biking scene, here are a few hidden messages you might’ve missed.

A testimony to how much Oregonians value culture, the Oregon Cultural Trust was created in 2001 to provide funding for artists and creators around the state. Established by the Oregon Legislature, the Oregon Cultural Trust currently works with over 1,600 nonprofits45 county and tribal Cultural Coalitions, and other vibrant cultural bounties across the state.

Oregonians fund the Cultural Trust. They, in turn, fund the artists, potters, rappers, acrobats and dreamers who make Oregon, Oregon. From Burns to Astoria, every year Oregonians support the Trust through generous matching gifts to fuel Oregon culture. In 2019, Oregonians gave $4.5 million to the Cultural Trust! After donations from Oregonians and statewide partners, artists of all kinds apply for the Trust's three competitive Cultural Development Grants.

An integral part of communities everywhere, the Trust inspires Oregonians to take part and pride in supporting their local creators. No other state provides a 100 percent tax credit to inspire cultural giving. As uniquely Oregonian as public beaches and the bottle bill, the Oregon Cultural Trust provides an ongoing funding engine to support all facets of arts and culture.

For accurate historical depictions and storytelling, artists and designers were nominated by a diverse group of 33 individuals representing Oregon’s artistic and design community. Each nominator was invited to forward the creative brief to artists or designers they felt might be interested. After receiving 36 total submissions of interest, a diverse jury evaluated and recommended 20 artists be invited to submit preliminary concepts in exchange for a $250 honorarium.

After receiving several concepts, an expanded jury evaluated each one based on criteria derived from the creative brief. Unanimously recommended to the Cultural Trust Board of Directors, Liza Burns' design was selected and approved in October.

Frequently meeting with several content experts identified through the Governor’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Burns was able to create and finalize symbols included in the design.

Capturing “Oregon Culture” in a single piece is an extraordinary challenge as Oregon is a diverse and beautiful arrangement of many cultures, each with their own subcultures and nuances. This abundance became the foundation of the piece.

The longer you look at the mural, the more your eyes will come to see. A unique place to dinehike and play, Medford’s culture is filled with diversity. This extraordinary fact is what inspired artist Liza Burns to create a patchwork design - focusing on the abundance of cultures, big and small. Beginning with the unique and diverse landscape, the overlay of the mural features the river valleys, mountains and high deserts of the region. Second, a concept of “symbol overlay” was developed in order to take viewers on a journey of discovery, and foster the idea of an ever-evolving culture.

Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust, liza burns

Liza Burns is an illustrator, muralist and designer based in Eugene, Oregon. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Boston University and an Associate Degree in Graphic Design from Lane Community College. After graduating from BU, Burns lived and worked in Los Angeles where she painted her first large-scale mural at Blue Cow Kitchen in downtown Los Angeles. Her mural art now appears in restaurants, shops, businesses and office buildings across Oregon, California, Texas and Connecticut. As a child she was deeply inspired by the work of Graeme Base (illustrator and author of books like “Animalia” and “The Eleventh Hour”), where she found a love and respect for art that tells a secret story that can only be unraveled by taking your time.

What do hiking destinations, live performances and award-winning food all have in common? They are all part of Southern Oregon’s rich cultural history! Click here to follow along on the interactive map, and click on any of the 127 key numbers to learn more about what each one represents.

First unveiled in the Medford Airport (MFR), the Oregon Cultural Trust mural and license plate serve as opportunities to experience the region and all its different attributes. You can view the mural next to the arrival section of the airport on your next visit, and see the new license plate around the state as you cruise downtown. Continue reading to discover the featured southern Oregon symbols, and learn about all of the symbols included with the interactive map.

Did you know that Harry and David was founded in Medford? A nationally renowned pear and chocolate hub, Harry and David is famous for it’s lovely gift towers, local’s favorite “Moose Munch” and hand-picked freshness guarantee. The company has blessed the Rogue Valley for over 110 years, making the symbol of the pear iconically known throughout the valley. It is only fitting that a symbol of the pear be proudly displayed in the mural. You can find it in the upper, left sky section, and taste Harry and David for yourself in the Heart of the Rogue Valley.

Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust, interactive key number, photo, blue cheese, rogue creamery, rogue river blue

A cheese connoisseur? Try 10 minutes from Medford, where the World’s Best Cheese, Rogue River Blue, resides at the famous Rogue Creamery. Awarded in 2019 at the World Cheese awards in Italy, Rogue Creamery is a famously organic company you won’t want your taste buds to miss out on.

Sitting along the Artisan Corridor, you can pair your cheese with award-winning wine from Ledger David Cellars, or home-made chocolate from Lillie Belle Farms. Spend an afternoon enjoying incredible artisan goods, and truly experience why Rogue Creamery’s cheese symbol is proudly displayed in the top left section of the Cultural Trust mural.

Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust, interactive key number, photo, pinot noir, grapes, wine country

Climate, soil, craft and culture create the perfect storm for world class wine. Named a “Top Ten Global Wine Destination” by Forbes Magazine in 2019, the Rogue Valley has a multitude of different wines to enjoy. Safely tucked into the Klamath, Coastal and Cascade Mountain ranges, the valley’s bowl allows for a multitude of varietals you are sure to enjoy. In warmer climates, grapes produce Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah, Tempranillo and Viognier. While the cooler climate varietals include Oregon’s famous Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. With a different varietal for everyone, you can see why a Pinot Noir and grape symbol are each displayed in the mural.

Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust, interactive key number, photo, hiking

When you travel to the Rogue Valley, the possibilities of adventure are endless. With beautiful views of the valley on the Table Rocks, 1,740 acres of hiking and biking trails on Prescott Park, and the ever-enchanting Pearsony Falls, Medford is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Not to mention, Oregon’s only National Park, Crater Lake, lies just 50 miles from Medford. The national treasure has some of the most breathtaking views you will experience, and several activities and things to do all year-round.

With an endless amount of hiking locations, escaping into the beauty of the region is not difficult. Find the iconic hiking boot in the upper left hand of the mural, and lace up yours to enjoy the rawness of the valley!

Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust, interactive key number, photo, theater

Boasting world-class productions and performances, Medford and the Rogue Valley showcase some of the best live performances on the West Coast.

Nestled into downtown Medford, enjoy a Broadway, ballet or cabaret performance at the Craterian Theater. The theater features incredible acoustics, and an intimate seating limit of 750 patrons.

Often called the Broadway of the West Coast, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is one of the region's biggest attractions, boasting multiple Tony Awards and accolades. TIME named it as one of the top five regional theater companies in the country, with 11 world-class  productions by classical and contemporary playwrights, crafted by some of the biggest talents in theater today.

Britt's performance venue is a naturally formed amphitheater set among majestic  ponderosa pines and native madrones. Located in the historic 1850s gold rush town of Jacksonville, Britt presents dozens of summer concerts. Concerts feature a variety of different world-class artists presenting multiple different genres, including classical music, jazz, blues, folk, bluegrass, world, pop and country music.

With an abundance of art and culture throughout the valley, inspiration and opportunity abound in Southern Oregon. When you look at the Cultural Trust mural, you will find a classic theater symbol in the top left corner, displaying the incredible feats of the arts around the valley.

Celebrate Oregon! , Cultural trust mural, medford murals, airport mural, artistry, oregon cultural trust

A unique destination to dinehike and play, discover the diverse culture of Oregon and the Rogue Valley! Get started planning your vacation in the Heart of the Rogue by viewing our Visitor Guide online, and learn more about the abundance of culture in Oregon on the Interactive, License Plate Key Narrative.

FEBRUARY
10
Expo BINGO
We will play 1️⃣2️⃣ games/sheets per night. Stay tuned for our hot food vendor of the evening! Prepay for a guaranteed seat…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
11
Galentine's with Hearts With A Mission
Hearts With A Mission is thrilled to present our 2025 Galentine’s Event! 🎉 📅 When: Tuesday, February 11 📍 Where: The Expo 💵…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
12
Art Academy with Linda Dixon
Art Academy with Linda Dixon Ages 7 – 11 6 Sessions, Wednesdays, February 12 – March 19, 4 – 5:30pm In this introductory…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
12
Bingo Night @ Walkabout Brewing
Join us for Bingo Night on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. Bingo cards are $1 each and…
FEBRUARY
13
A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder @ Oregon Cabaret
The knock-'em-dead, uproarious hit and the 2014 Tony award-winner for best musical, Gentleman’s Guide tells the story of Monty Navarro,…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
13
CTP's The Lion in Winter
January 23rd- February 16th Sibling rivalry, adultery, treachery, and dungeons – The Lion in Winter is a modern-day classic that…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
14
Jim Witter @ The Craterian
Returning to the Craterian for his eighth visit, join Jim Witter and his band as they perform the greatest love…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
14
Latin Dance Night @ Dunbar Farms
Join us on Valentines Day for a night of Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia and more! 7:00pm Doors open 7:30pm Dance lessons- no experience…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
14
The Pozitronics @ RoxyAnn Winery
Come celebrate Valentine's Day with your dance shoes on!
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
14
Tutunov Piano Series presents: Brian Hall & Alexander Tutunov
Renowned international concert pianist Dr. Alexander Tutunov and his special guest, classically trained pianist turned anesthesiologist, local Rogue Valley resident…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
14
Valentine's Day Party @ Rocky Tonk Saloon
It’s a lovers holiday… Bring your lover or find a new one! DJ Poppa will be playing your favorite dance…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
Bavarian Night
Bavarian Night is the annual fundraiser for the Mt. Ashland Ski Patrol. Come support them and cherish everything they do…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
Danielle Kelly & Paul Turnipseed @ Remotion Wine
Looking for an alternative to going out to dinner on Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day? Check out our live music option…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
Jeff Kloetzel @ Dos Mariposas
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
Kite Fest @ Lake of the Woods
More details coming!
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
Lunar New Year Celebration - 2025 Year of the Snake
Music, dancing, costumes, history, music and much more! Come to Jacksonville and celebrate the Year of the Snake.
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
Mark Hummel's Blues Harmonica Blowout @ The Craterian
Mark Hummel’s Blues Harmonica Blowout celebrates more than 30 years of national and international festivals and sold-out venues coast to…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
S. O. Artisan Market @ Rellik Winery
Rosé, live music, and shopping from local artisans? Yes please! Come celebrate valentines weekend with us at Rellik Winery. We…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
15
United States Coast Guard Band Concert (FREE)
The United States Coast Guard Band performs a FREE concert at North Medford High School on its Centennial Celebrations Tour.…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
16
Aaron Reed @ Dos Mariposas Vineyards
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
16
Aaron Reed @ Dos Mariposas Vineyards
Aaron Reed live, 3-5pm!
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
16
Intro to Drawing For Adults with Belinda Moffit
Adult Intro to Drawing with Belinda Moffit 5 Sessions, Sundays February 16 – March 16, 2 – 4pm This class is perfect…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
16
Vine & Shine! Brunch @ Paschal Winery
Vine & Shine Brunch Every Sunday 11:00am - 1:30pm Catered by Aga & Rory $25 Non Members $20 Members Includes Mimosa This event is by reservation only. 541-535-7957
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
17
Creative Writing Special Event
Join us for SOUL week - Southern Oregon University Live - a week long lunchtime event showcasing creative writing, poetry,…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
19
Arthur Miller's The Price @ Camelot Theatre
Join us for a poignant theatrical experience with Arthur Miller’s gripping drama, This play delves into the complexities of family…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
19
R.E.S.P.E.C.T. @ The Craterian
An electrifying tribute, R.E.S.P.E.C.T. celebrates the music of the legendary Aretha Franklin. This concert experience takes audiences on a journey…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
20
SOU Theatre presents: The Merry Wives of Windsor
SOU Theatre presents: The Merry Wives of Windsor written by William Shakespeare and directed by Domenique Lozano. Performances run February…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
21
Hopfinger Wisher@ Dos Mariposas
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
21
Sportsman's & Outdoor Recreation Show
25th annual Newswatch 12 Sportsmen's & Outdoor Recreation Show presented by Bi-Mart Jackson County Expo 1 Peninger Road, Central Point,…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
21
The Roadsters @ RoxyAnn Winery
Join us for an evening of wine and camaraderie with The Roadsters at RoxyAnn Winery. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
21
Third Friday Medford
Enjoy food, music, local art galleries and merchants along with an exciting silent disco! In collaboration with the vibrant artist…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
22
Line Dance Class @ Dos Mariposas
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
23
Open Mic by the Fire @ Dos Mariposas
Our monthly Open Mic events at Dos Mariposas have become a cherished space where all talents are shared and celebrated.…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
27
Phil Reed @ Grape Street Bar & Grill
Folk singer and sing-writer Phil Reed of local band The Brothers Reed, Live at Grape Street, THURSDAY, Feb.27th, 6-9pm!
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
27
Women's Leadership Connection Networking Event
We are excited to announce that our February speaker is Arin Fugate, Founder and CEO of the Elevated Networking Society.…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
28
Monster Truck Nitro Tour
See these incredible 10,000-pound, car crushing giants compete in racing, wheelie contests, and then rock the house with amazing freestyle…
VISIT WEBSITE
FEBRUARY
28
The Giantess @ Dos Mariposas
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
1
Gunstock Red @ Touvelle Tavern
GSR Rocks it up for the Grand Re-Opening of Touvelle Tavern, and the kick off of LIVE MUSIC! Great eats…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
2
Rally for Reed! @ Holly Theatre
Local musicians are rallying together to host a benefit concert event for their friend and colleague Aaron Reed (of the…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
5
High School State Alpine State Championships
Oregon state championships for high school alpine racing.
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
6
Mom Rock Presents: Sharaya Summers @ Grape Street
Mom Rock Presents: Residency Nights at Grape Street Bar This Month featureing Sharaya Summers along with a fresh line up of…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
7
Father-Daughter Dinner Dance
A two-night special event held on a Friday and Saturday night exclusively for fathers and daughters to enjoy a quality…
MARCH
7
First Friday Happy Hour @ Del Rio Vineyards
Sometimes, there aren't enough days in the week or hours in the day to come out and have a glass…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
7
Julius Caesar @ OSF
“The evil that men do lives after them” Julius Caesar returns to the heart of Rome victorious from war. But as…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
7
Oregon Chocolate Festival
Chocolate indulgence awaits in picturesque Ashland. Join us as we celebrate Oregon Chocolate Festival’s 21st year! Saturday, March 8, 2025,…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
7
Tutunov Piano Series presents: Ilya Shmukler
When he was 3 years old, Moscow native Ilya Shmukler’s mother found him jumping on the bed and beautifully singing…
VISIT WEBSITE
MARCH
7
VinylTap live @ Touvelle Lodge
Live music RETURNS to Touvelle Lodge with Southern Oregon’s Premier Power Trio! Come support the return of live music at…
CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL EVENTS
Family, Outdoor Adventure, Things to Do, Trails
Whether you are training for your next major event or tuning up for the local Turkey Trot, Medford and the Rogue Valley are a runner’s paradise. With terrain to suit any runner’s needs, the region offers limitless options and is…  Read More
Attractions, Dining, National Park, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Adventure, Sports, Things to Do, Wine
The leaves are turning amber spice is in the air the beautiful valley is calling you to find adventure everywhere! Looking for the perfect place to sip a latte, or hike among the foliage? View our complete guide to enjoying fall in the Heart of the…  Read More
Dining, Fishing, Guides & Tours, Jetboats, Lakes & Rivers, National Park, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Adventure, Sports, Things to Do, Trails, Wine, Winery
Spring is a beautiful season to explore this charming city nestled in the heart of the Rogue Valley. With its mild climate, stunning natural surroundings, and vibrant community, Medford offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences,…  Read More
Family, Outdoor Adventure, Things to Do, Trails
Whether you are training for your next major event or tuning up for the local Turkey Trot, Medford and the Rogue Valley are a runner’s paradise. With terrain to suit any runner’s needs, the region offers limitless options and is…  Read More
Attractions, Dining, National Park, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Adventure, Sports, Things to Do, Wine
The leaves are turning amber spice is in the air the beautiful valley is calling you to find adventure everywhere! Looking for the perfect place to sip a latte, or hike among the foliage? View our complete guide to enjoying fall in the Heart of the…  Read More
Dining, Fishing, Guides & Tours, Jetboats, Lakes & Rivers, National Park, Outdoor Activities, Outdoor Adventure, Sports, Things to Do, Trails, Wine, Winery
Spring is a beautiful season to explore this charming city nestled in the heart of the Rogue Valley. With its mild climate, stunning natural surroundings, and vibrant community, Medford offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences,…  Read More
MEDFORD WEATHER
Connect With Us
@TravelMedford
Newsletter Sign-up
101 E. 8th St | Medford, OR 97501 | 541-779-4847 | info@travelmedford.org
Website Development by Drozian Webworks
X
X