Valley Library Art Collection Records, 1948-2018

The Northwest Art Collection was established and installed in the Valley Library as part of extensive renovations of the Library that were completed in 1999. This collection features more than 140 pieces of artwork by Northwest artists, and includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, lithographs, prints and other forms of media. This collection was selected in collaboration with the Oregon Art Commission through the Oregon Percent for Art law. This law states that 1% of the construction funds that go towards working on any state facility be set aside for the commissioning and acquisition of public art. The aim of this law is to improve the character and quality of state buildings to inspire, challenge and intrigue all those who view the pieces. The Northwest Art Collection houses works by over 50 artists, including Bonnie Hall, Michael Brophy, and Rick Bartow.  More information about specific pieces is available on the OSU Libraries website.

Betty LaDuke graduated from California State University - Los Angeles with a Master’s Degree in Printmaking, as well as a secondary art teaching credential. LaDuke taught at Southern Oregon University from 1964 to 1996 in the Art Department and was, at that time, the only woman in the department. In 1994, LaDuke traveled to Eritrea as part of a teaching trip. She continued to travel to Eritrea annually until 2001. During the period of these trips, she created the pieces that became “Surviving War, Dreaming Home” documenting her observations of life during the Eritrean-Ethiopian War.  During the same time, LaDuke also created  “Eritrea, Ethiopia: Prayers for Peace” and “Africa: From Eritrea with Love.” LaDuke also produced multiple documentaries, including “Persistent Women Artists” and “Eritrean Artists in War and Peace.” LaDuke now resides in Ashland Oregon with her husband Vincent LaDuke.