Recipient of the Oregon Arts Commission 2005 Arts Recognition Award Winner

The Clatskanie Arts Commission's mission is to provide a variety of entertaining programs and events which enrich the lives of the people of the Lower Columbia River Region.

Commission History

The Clatskanie Arts Commission began, in part, through the efforts of a committee of eight to raise funds to purchase a concert grand piano for the people of Clatskanie. Through a grass root, fundraising effort and an outpouring of community support, the committee was able to purchase a $10,000, nine-foot Knabe grand piano.

Recognizing an opportunity to support this broad based community interest in the arts, the City of Clatskanie, in 1988, helped establish the committee's formation of the Clatskanie Arts Commission. The Commission is presently comprised of professional artists, teachers, mill workers, homemakers, musicians, business people and other community members from Clatskanie, Rainier and St. Helens who all bring their special talents and enthusiasm in support of the arts.

Although we are pleased to have successfully completed our eighteenth well-accepted and successful Performing Arts Series, the Commission continues to face the growing challenge of supporting itself. We are constantly refining our marketing techniques and broadening our audience base. Since we received no tax dollars from the City of Clatskanie we pursued 501-C3 status and withdrew from the City. CAC received approval for 501-C3 status in 1996. We are now actively pursuing corporate and foundation support to help us bring high quality performances to our audience at affordable prices.

Commission Goals

The Clatskanie Arts Commission has defined as its objectives:

• to bring professional artists of all disciplines to the Lower Columbia Region*
• to give people of all ages access and exposure to a variety of art forms and cultural diversity
• to expand learning opportunities for students through workshops and assemblies

These three objectives will enhance the lives of many and provide Clatskanie and the surrounding communities with artistic outlets and balance.

Commission Events

The Clatskanie Arts Commission serves the rural farm and wood products based communities that make up the Lower Columbia Region*. The people of these communities reflect a wide range of educational backgrounds, income and age levels. 

The Commission is able to reach diverse populations by providing an annual Performing Arts Series. The Commission has also provided a forum for local professional, amateur and student artists. 

We successfully work in partnership with local organizations such as the Clatskanie Park and Recreation District, Clatskanie Chamber, Heritage Days, Clatskanie Kiwanis, Clatskanie Together Coalition, senior citizen groups, schools and community organizations.

*The Lower Columbia Region includes the following communities:

We honor our special

lifetime board members: