How Arts and Local Collaboration Power Eastern Oregon

In rural communities across Eastern Oregon, local identity is built on a foundation of shared history, mutual support, and cultural connection. In Episode 14 of Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative’s (OTEC) Power Eastern Oregon podcast, host Paige Witham sits down with Ginger Savage, Executive Director of the Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, to explore why arts and culture are an essential pillar of community resilience, economic vitality, and local well-being.

The Role of Arts and Culture in Rural Communities

Arts initiatives in small towns are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in shaping a region’s past, present, and future. Savage emphasizes that community art programming serves as a vital bridge between generations and diverse local groups. Far from being a luxury, access to creative spaces offers residents a way to process local history, express regional pride, and nurture a strong sense of place.

“We have been doing classes and education programming since inception,” Savage says. “We have youth classes, we have adult classes. It’s such a core part of our mission. Do not think there aren’t art opportunities in Baker [County], because there are lots.”

Key cultural anchors in the region, ranging from the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center to live performances at the Eastern Oregon Regional Theatre and educational workshops at the Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, provide foundational platforms for storytelling and connection. These institutions ensure that the rich heritage of Eastern Oregon remains vibrant while continually adapting to welcome new perspectives.

“It’s interwoven into the fabric.”

Collaboration and Economic Vitality

Savage also highlights that no single organization can thrive in isolation: True community development relies on cross-sector collaboration.

“When you live in a small town, I always say that I don’t do anything without my partners. Staffing capacity, dollars, resources, volunteers, all of that,” Savage says. “That interchange of how these partners can allow an art project to be in front of their folks that will engage them in a new and different way. We’re really blessed that we have so many amazing partners that support arts and culture.”

When local arts centers, small businesses, schools, and member-owned cooperatives such as OTEC align their efforts, the economic and social ripple effects are significant. Cultural landmarks and seasonal arts programming draw regional visitors to local restaurants, hospitality, and retail businesses. Hands-on classes and workshops offer local youth creative outlets and skill-building opportunities. And shared creative spaces combat rural isolation, fostering mental health, trust, and deeper relationships among neighbors.

“There are so many communities throughout the country that have used arts and culture as that driving economic development piece of the puzzle to change and transform their economies.”

Listen and Get Involved

Whether you are an artist, a lifelong Eastern Oregon resident, or a member-owner curious about the factors driving regional health, this episode offers an inspiring look at what happens when passion, collaboration, and community spirit intersect.

You can find this episode and more of the Power Eastern Oregon podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.