Stories
Learn about inspiring stories of change and hope from our community and how they impact our collective’s mission.
Stories from Our Community
Environmental champions are working every day to protect our forests, rivers, and coastline, alongside local artists using their craft to inspire action. Through their stories, we celebrate the power of community, resilience, and creativity in the fight for a healthier planet. Dive in and meet the people shaping a more sustainable future—one brushstroke, photograph, and act of activism at a time.
Brushstrokes for Change: Local Artist Paints to Protect Our Forests
When Oregon painter Jake Thompson steps into the Siuslaw National Forest, he doesn’t just see trees—he sees stories waiting to be told. Through vivid, textured landscapes, Jake captures the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest, using his art to raise funds for conservation efforts. His latest collection, inspired by the ancient cedars and misty coastal cliffs, is helping support reforestation projects and habitat restoration. Read more about Jake’s journey and how his work is making an impact.
Through the Lens of Conservation: Capturing the Wild to Protect It
For local photographer Maya Lewis, every shot is a call to action. Specializing in dramatic coastal landscapes and intimate wildlife portraits, she uses her photography to highlight the fragile beauty of the Siuslaw National Forest and its threatened ecosystems. Through gallery shows and print sales, Maya donates a portion of her proceeds to conservation groups working to protect old-growth forests and restore critical habitats. See how her images are inspiring change and how you can support the cause.
Reviving the River: A Community’s Fight to Restore Wild Salmon
The rivers of the Pacific Northwest once teemed with wild salmon, but habitat destruction and climate change have put these iconic fish at risk. Local conservationists and Indigenous leaders are working together to restore vital spawning grounds, remove outdated dams, and protect fragile ecosystems. Learn how their efforts are bringing wild salmon back—and how you can help.
Mural with a Message: Public Art Raising Awareness for Forests
A new mural in town is turning heads—and sparking conversation. Painted by a collective of local artists, the piece illustrates the beauty of our coastal forests while highlighting the threats they face. From towering old-growth trees to endangered species hidden within, the mural tells a story of resilience. Discover the inspiration behind the artwork and the movement it’s creating.
Letters from The Collective
January Craft & Chat: Collage Workshop
This week, the Emerald Curtain Collective hosted our monthly gathering at the South Beach Community Center, and it was an evening filled with creativity, connection, and storytelling. Our “Col…
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December Craft & Chat: Thai Salad Rolls
Our December Gathering was a humble and delicious experience. We got together and made Thai salad rolls! Everyone caught on pretty quick and had no problem devouring the new skill […]
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November Craft & Chat: Linocut Stamp Carving
Last night at our monthly gathering, members of the Emerald Curtain Collective came together for an engaging workshop in linocut stamp-carving, taught by a local artist and founding member of [&hell…
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Building Community & Insect Hotels: A Summer Gathering at the Heart Barn
Emerald Curtain Collective gathered at the Heart Barn for an evening dedicated to creativity, connection, and care for our local pollinators. What started as a simple idea to build insect […]
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Art/Activism/Play
My desire to connect and communicate drives my art and the concern I feel for our planet draws me to be part of the Emerald Curtain Collective. I enjoy sculpting […]
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