Longtime Oregon artist Patricia Young is shaping the visual identity of the Mid-Willamette Valley through a series of public art installations and community-driven projects. Known for her work on the Roto-Rooter Park sign in Keizer and the World Beat Festival branding, Young is currently transitioning from graphic design to large-scale outdoor muralism, according to her recent community profile.
Public Art and the Evolution of Mid-Valley Landscapes
Patricia Young’s work bridges the gap between commercial graphic design and public fine art. After a career that included layout work at the Statesman Journal and 17 years as a graphic designer for Oregon’s OSHA, Young has focused her recent efforts on large-scale outdoor murals. Her most recent project, a postcard-style mural on the brick exterior of Los Dos Amigos in Keizer, features local landmarks such as the Keizer Rotary Amphitheater and the Keizer Cultural Center.
According to Young, the transition to outdoor muralism required mastering new, weather-resistant techniques to withstand Oregon’s variable climate. She is currently preparing for her next large-scale commission: a 50-foot mural in Jefferson, commissioned by the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce with an anticipated start date in September.
Did you know?
Artists in Action, a Salem-area nonprofit where Young has served on the board, hosts an annual “Paint & Write the Town” event. The program encourages artists to paint “en plein air” throughout the summer, culminating in a juried exhibition each October.
Community Engagement Through Artistic Education
Young’s influence extends beyond her own murals into local arts education. As an instructor for “Paint & Sip” workshops at Chemeketa Cellars, she focuses on accessibility for beginners. Young stated that a primary goal of her teaching is helping students realize that artistic expression does not require advanced drawing skills, but rather a willingness to engage with the medium.
Her work is currently on display at the Elsinore Gallery in Salem and the River Gallery in Independence. These galleries feature her landscape paintings, which she produces in oil, acrylic, and watercolor. Young’s career path, which included studies at the University of Oregon and a degree in art education from Western Oregon University, has allowed her to maintain a freelance practice through her business, Vision Graphics, while contributing to regional non-profits.
Future Trends in Regional Public Art
By incorporating recognizable sites—such as the Keizer Rapids playground or local business founders—these murals serve as both public art and community markers.
Pro Tip:
If you are interested in viewing or participating in local art events, check the Artists in Action official schedule. The organization provides a roadmap for community-based creative projects throughout the summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see Patricia Young’s artwork in person?
Her work is currently exhibited at the Elsinore Gallery in Salem and the River Gallery in Independence. Additionally, her outdoor mural is located on the exterior of Los Dos Amigos restaurant in Keizer.
What is “Paint & Write the Town”?
It is an annual summer event hosted by the nonprofit Artists in Action. The event invites artists and poets to create outdoor works, leading up to a juried exhibition in October that includes cash awards.
How does Young approach large-scale murals?
According to Young, her process involves researching weather-resistant materials and adapting to the challenges of painting on brick surfaces during varying weather conditions. She has noted that the process requires careful planning and technical adjustments compared to studio painting.
Do you have a suggestion for an individual making a difference in the Mid-Valley? Email Statesman Journal editor Jonathan Williams at [email protected] to submit a nomination for this community series.
Worth a look