Ever since the annual Oregon Country Fair commenced in 1969, it has remained a communal space for self-expression, environmentalism, food, music, art and all other forms of creativity imaginable. SCUA’s KEZI-TV/Chambers Communication collection is home to outtakes, B-roll, and news segments of the fair dating back to the 1970’s. Held in Veneta, Oregon just outside of Eugene, this is an event which strongly embodies the spirit of the region. Examining this collection has taught me how unique and deeply-rooted western Oregon’s multifaceted brand of forward-thinking truly is.

-Michael O’Ryan, Curatorial Assistant