Mission

Oregon Origins Project brings together artists, scientists, and Indigenous culture bearers to create unique cultural experiences that connect people to the ancient origins of our shared home.

Vision

We envision an interconnected community rooted in respect and deep appreciation of our region’s diverse peoples and places.

Values

Creativity + Craft

We create spaces for diverse forms of creative expression, imagination, and new ways of interpreting, presenting, and experiencing artistic works.

We achieve excellence by working with a diversity of artists, scientists, educators, and culture bearers who carry deep, authentic knowledge.

We seek new ways to do our work with open hearts and minds.

 

Community + Belonging

We form lasting relationships with the artists, scientists, educators, culture bearers, partner organizations, audiences, and communities we serve.

We are guided at all stages by a diverse range of voices, views, and cultures and a desire to grow the cultural wealth of communities we serve.

We make our programs accessible, welcoming, participatory, and supportive of multiple ways of learning.

 

Equity + Justice

We recognize inequities and systemic racism, including in the arts and sciences, and use our work to counter these and create a more equitable and just community.

We believe Indigenous voices and cultural practices are integral to understanding the ancient origins of our region. Given ongoing misrepresentation and attempts at erasure, we are committed to greater visibility for Indigenous cultures.

We partner with underserved communities to produce meaningful local arts and culture programs.

Chief Joseph Mountain, Walˀwáamaxs (Wallowa Mountains)

photo: Matthew Packwood