On Sept. 26, Deschutes Brewery's iconic holiday beer Jubelale went on tap. For locals, it marks the beginning of the holiday season. While most look forward to its arrival for the beer's signature layered seasonal flavors, the local artwork displayed on its label each year is another part of what makes the brew beloved by so many.
According to Jason Randles, digital marketing manager for Deschutes Brewery, Jubelale was the first beer hand bottled at the pub after it opened in 1998. In 1995 the brewery began commissioning local artists to create artwork for the packaging.
Past artists include Kasey Anseth, who created the 25th anniversary label from a collage she made using labels from past years. Karen Ruane is this year's featured artist, with a seasonal piece appropriately entitled "First Snow."
Ruane is one of the partners at The Wilds, an artist workspace in Bend. Her work caught Randles' eye while he was there touring the space. Randles says, "I was really impressed with the marbled paper technique and her unique style. I had never seen anything like it before."
Ruane's piece is inspired by the changes the first storm brings to the high desert landscape and perfectly fits the basic criteria that the Deschutes team is looking for: art that is unique, festive and wintery, and translates well to packaging.
On Oct. 3, Jubelale fans had the chance to meet Ruane at the official release party where she signed posters as part of the annual tradition. Jubelale will be available to purchase through December. Ruane's work will go on display along with the past artists' pieces in the Jubelale Hall of Fame, located at the brewery.
Deschutes Brewery & Tasting Room
901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend
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