What is ArtMatch?

In late 2007, The Bend Foundation announced a $500,000 matching gift program to purchase and install art on public property within the city limits of Bend, to be completed by December 31, 2010. In early 2009, The Bend Foundation board approved an extension of the ArtMatch program through 2012. The Bend Foundation will match both public and private donations, giving Bend a potential of $1,000,000 for new public art.

How does it work?

The funds will be used to purchase public art selected by Art in Public Places, which incorporates a public comment phase into its art selection process, and which will consider the input of those donating to ArtMatch.  The Arts, Beautification and Culture Commission is managing a public site selection process for the new art.  All artwork will be placed on publicly owned sites within the Bend city limits.

What kind of support is needed?

The Brooks Resources conceived matching gift program was designed to encourage other community members--individuals, corporations and public organizations-- to donate funds eligible for the match.  The Celebrate Bend Foundation Board of Directors kicked off the program by donating the first $10,000.  Our full credit line includes a current list of supporters to ArtMatch. In order for ArtMatch to work and continue to make Bend unique with its public art, more commitments are required from community members.

Please make a donation to ArtMatch and be part of the history of public art in Bend.  Those interested in contributing to the ArtMatch fund may contact Cate O’Hagan, Executive Director of Arts Central (a non-profit regional arts council for central Oregon) at 541-749-2291.