‘Arts Alive’ Celebration flourishes in Powellhurst-Gilbert

This outer East Portland art fair just keeps getting better! Take a look …

A fun summer event, the “Arts Alive Celebration”, returns to the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton

Throughout Saturday afternoon, August 16, the “Arts Alive 2025 Celebration” again enlivened the Arte Soleil parking lot on SE 122nd Avenue at Harold Street.

Under the colorful canopies was, as the organizers put it, “all things arts” – with some artisans selling, other artists creating works, and with families enjoying activities.

At their organization’s booth, it’s Free Arts NW Board Chair Emily Trum – here, playing a “Pick a Color” drawing game with passing kids.

“Now, in its third year – and bigger and better than ever – this celebration is intended to bring the community together,” organizer, and Free Arts NW Board Chair Emily Trum explained, between playing games with passing kids.

Visitors visited more than a dozen artists and crafters there. They found a wide variety of merchandise available – from handmade jewelry, to clothing, to an author selling books.

Offering raffle tickets, it’s volunteer Syd Spencer.

Creating a painting at the art fair is Miguel Rodriguez, who’s also a musical entertainer known as Mike Firm.

“This part of the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood has so many awesome families living here,” Trum told East Portland News. “We are providing a space where people can get to know each other, while incorporating local artisans and craftspeople into the celebration.

“Some of our participants are here selling their wares again – and supporting the local economy is absolutely glorious,” Trum enthused.

Musically entertaining on the SoundsTruck NW stage, is Cat Johnston, a Program Leader at My Voice Music.

Spreading joy with bubbles is “HaHa” of Clowns Have More Fun!

It’s outer East Portland-based art impresario Hamton Rodriguez greeting visitors at the celebration.

“When community comes together, good things happen; area residents feel safer and connected,” observed Trum. “It feels less isolating when you know the people who live next door and down the block. This is really a grassroots, ground-up, event that helps our people feel more invested in their neighbors than their friends,” she remarked.

Find out more about Free Arts NW – and, if you choose, support their mission – by visiting their website: CLICK HERE.

On our Front Page: It’s [E]mpress showing off creative magnets for sale.

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