Our History

Our Roots: Inspiration Born from Need

Before Painted Sky Center for the Arts (PSCA), Grant County—one of Oregon’s most geographically isolated and economically challenged regions—lacked access to arts and cultural services. With no dedicated arts facility, the county’s rich creative potential remained largely untapped. Over 16% of residents live below the poverty line, and the decline of the timber industry in the 1980s further strained local infrastructure and resources.

A Creative Beginning in Grant County
In 2018, a group of local artists united to change that. With a shared vision of bringing creativity, community, and healing through the arts, they founded PSCA—the first arts center in the county. With an initial fundraiser yielding $1,200, the group secured space for after-school programs, music, and community art classes. Growing demand led to additional classroom space within the first year, expanding into ceramics and leatherworking.

Building on Our Foundation
By 2023, PSCA had outgrown its facilities. In November, we purchased a 17,700-square-foot building in downtown John Day to house 10 departments and expand access to arts education, exhibitions, and community events. This move marked a significant milestone in our mission to serve as a cultural cornerstone for Grant County.

Since its founding, PSCA has become a beacon for creativity, economic development, and community connection—reducing barriers to participation and building a more vibrant, inclusive arts ecosystem in Eastern Oregon.

Painted Sky Founders: From left, Kim Randleas, Allison Field, Claire Kehrberg, Heidi Brooks, Karin Barntish, and Laurel Coombs.