About the ArtShop

The Arts Center ArtShop offers locally handcrafted treasures and gifts spanning across all mediums including: ceramics, glass, wood, screen prints, letterpress, and more. The ArtShop showcases the work of artists living in Linn and Benton counties.

Featured Artist: April 2026 Bruce Coblentz

As a child, Bruce Coblentz was always attuned to nature, spending much of his time pursuing frogs and turtles and going fishing. That early fascination with the natural world eventually led to a career as a wildlife ecologist and professor at Oregon State University.

Over the course of his career, Bruce worked in many remarkable places around the world, including the Galápagos, Madagascar, the Seychelles, numerous islands in the Caribbean, and the Channel Islands off the coast of California.

Bruce was first introduced to the wood lathe at around ten years old and remembers the satisfaction of watching rough pieces of wood transform into new shapes. He also developed a deep appreciation for trees and the complex grain patterns found within their wood. Eventually, these interests came together as he began practicing woodturning more seriously.

For many years Bruce exhibited his work in art shows, though these days he prefers a quieter pace. He continues to spend gratifying hours at the lathe, shaping wood into forms that highlight the natural beauty and character of each piece.

Donor Discounts

With an annual donation of $50 or more, enjoy a 10% discount on all ArtShop purchases.