
May 31, 2015 Performers from the Steens Mountain Ballet’s Ballet II troupe perform at an Evening to Celebrate the Arts before the Burns symposium. Accompanying them on violin is India Paramore. Photo by Larry Gilliam.
Art’s Transformative Power focus of Burns Symposium Compelling stories of art contributing to economic and cultural vitality in rural communities highlighted the May 19 and 20 Southeast Oregon Symposium on the Arts and Economic Development in Burns.
“We heard very distinct and successful examples of where small, isolated rural communities have utilized the arts to strengthen local economy and quality of life,” says Brian Wagner, Arts Commission community development coordinator and event facilitator.
Close to 100 people attended the Symposium, hosted by the Harney County Arts in Education Foundation as part of an effort to explore the feasibility of building a Harney County Performing Arts and Education Center.
Linda Neale (left), advisory board