There’s construction still going on, a few more stools on order, rugs to put down and art to hang up, but the new Art Station at Larkspur Park is unofficially open for business and accepting registrations. The 5,000-square-foot space was built to offer art and enrichment programs for youth and adults at 1650 SE Reed Market Road, adjacent to the Larkspur Community Center, which houses the Bend Senior Center, and Larkspur Park.
The Art Station, which officially opens on Sunday, Oct. 11, includes three classrooms: one for adults, one for youth and one devoted to clay work. The latter has 12 wheels and two kilns. Clay is one of the most popular art programs the district offers, and due to community demand, the district will continue to operate Harmon Clay Studio, as well.
High ceilings and wood accents make the creative spaces airy and bright, while large windows overlooking the park’s nature trails bring the outside in. There’s an Art Porch, for which Bend Park and Recreation District received a $25,000 grant from The Bend Foundation. It features 11 carved wood columns, inspired by Central Oregon’s old-growth juniper trunks, rising 14 feet toward the sky. The district also plans to display artwork on exterior banners.
Two classes have already been held at the facility, and the district is looking forward to being officially open and serving Bend residents.
“We’re excited to get the community in here,” said Catherine Ellis, recreation and inclusion manager for BPRD, after conducting an informal tour of the facility. She said they’re offering a handful of classes before the official opening, including a Kids’ Night Out: Fun with Clay & More for children ages 6-12 on Friday, Sept. 25. Adults can drop off their children from 5-8pm and enjoy a night out while kiddos explore their creative side with art projects, enjoy snacks and even venture to the playground, weather permitting. Registration is required.
Ellis also highlighted the handful of Kids’ Night Out offerings each term, as well as Clay Date night classes for couples and a plethora of art classes across several mediums, including painting, drawing, fused glass and wreath making. The Art Station will also hold theatre, music, robotics and science classes and after-school sessions and youth classes on days when there’s no school. The facility offers rental space for birthday parties, and by the end of the year will also have open studio space for artists who need a place to create but don’t want to take classes — a popular request the district received when surveying people who’d taken art classes through other district facilities. The district conducted the survey to ensure the new Art Station offered what residents really want.
“Being able to fulfill that passion is something we’re really excited to be able to bring back,” Ellis said. “It’s really exciting.”
The grand opening celebration is set for Sunday, Oct. 11 from 1-3pm. Community members can tour the facility and meet staff, see art demonstrations and get information about classes, workshops and rental opportunities. Additionally, monthly open houses on the second Saturday of each month through February 13, 2027. The events are free and open to the public.
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