by Lyle Murphy, OFN Intern

The Oregon Folklife Network attended the Association of Western States Folklorists (AWSF) annual meeting in Laramie, WY at the Vee Bar Guest Ranch from April 25-27. The conference included discussion topics such as the navigation of crowd sourced funding, the organizational future of AWSF, and a regional collaboration focusing on riverways. There was a particular emphasis on developing a larger presence of graduate students and younger professionals than in previous years; this would ensure their perspectives and ideas were heard, especially in the future development of AWSF.

Highlights of the weekend included Vee Bar manager Brent Kilmer’s cowboy songs and guitar playing, Mary Maynard of Laramie demonstration and display of tatting and crocheting, and a lively Dutch Hop Polka band performance and community dance. AWSF meetings are opportunities for folklorists to not only become familiar with other professionals in the field, but to also reach out to other disciplines and to foster a connection with the local area where the event is held. The balance of work, interaction, and community make these conferences a wonderful experience for all who attend.

The Oregon Folklife Network celebrated its newly expanded office with an Open House on April 18. We were very fortunate to have three Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Program awardees as our guests of honor. UO Faculty, staff, and students were in attendance, as well as community members.

The OFN would like to thank everyone who attended the Open House, and for supporting Oregon’s cultural heritage.

In addition to the Open House, the OFN hosted an Artist Panel Discussion with presentations from Esther Stutzman, Daniela Mahoney, and Mark Ross.