During a recent city council meeting, Andrew Edwards, director of the Lakewood Center for the Arts, presented an overview of the Festival of the Arts, which celebrated its 62nd year in Lake Oswego. The festival, held from June 19 to 22, attracted over 25,000 attendees and showcased the work of more than 120 visual artists from five western states. Edwards emphasized the festival's mission to promote arts education and community engagement through various outreach programs.

This year's festival uniquely focused on youth, featuring an exhibit titled \"Imagination Menagerie,\" which highlighted the artistic expressions of young participants alongside professional artists. Edwards noted that the festival not only serves as a cultural highlight for Lake Oswego but also significantly impacts local businesses, with 58% of attendees coming from outside the city and many dining and shopping locally.

The council members expressed their appreciation for the festival's contributions to the community and recognized the extensive volunteer efforts that make it possible. Edwards highlighted the challenges faced by the organization, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted operations and strained financial resources. He pointed out that the city’s financial support of $30,000 has remained unchanged for a decade, despite rising costs and increased demands.

Council members discussed the importance of investing in the arts, with some advocating for a reevaluation of the city’s financial commitment to the festival in future budgets. They acknowledged the festival's role in enhancing Lake Oswego's reputation as a cultural hub and its potential for broader regional impact.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and investment in the arts, underscoring the festival's significance in fostering community spirit and cultural enrichment in Lake Oswego.