Visitors to the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Benton County can now see new artwork displayed as part of the Corvallis Art Guild’s Hanging Around Town program. This initiative brings rotating exhibits by local artists into various community spaces across Corvallis.
Each featured artist’s work is showcased for about two months, with paintings placed throughout lobbies and corridors on both floors of the building. The current exhibit features seven paintings by Rhoda Fleischman, a long-time member of the Corvallis Art Guild.
Fleischman’s work focuses on themes of transformation and personal growth, with ladders serving as a recurring symbol in her art. “The ladder represents transformation,” Fleischman said. “It’s about moving from one state to another, whether that’s an internal journey or something happening in the world around us.”
Originally from Portland, Fleischman now lives south of Brownsville and has been active in the Corvallis Art Guild for over 20 years. She started her artistic career working with pottery before transitioning to painting in the early 2000s. “I started painting around 2001 after a friend encouraged me to try it,” Fleischman said. “Once I began, I just kept going.”
Painting has become a regular part of her life and allows her to explore ideas related to change, growth, and connection. She credits the Corvallis Art Guild for its support throughout her artistic development. “It’s a great organization with a long history,” she said. “There are workshops, opportunities to learn and a lot of supportive people who enjoy sharing ideas about art.”
Fleischman also appreciates the sense of belonging she finds within the group. “The Guild is very welcoming,” she said. “It’s a place where people can share their work and talk about art together.”
The Hanging Around Town program aims to connect artists with the wider community by displaying artwork in public buildings, businesses, and community centers.
At the Kalapuya Building, visitors can view Fleischman’s paintings during regular business hours while accessing county services or attending meetings; members of the public are also welcome to visit specifically for the art display.
“It’s wonderful when people encounter art in unexpected places,” Fleischman said. “You never know what might resonate with someone.”
New artists will continue to rotate through the Kalapuya Building every two months. Participation is open only to exhibiting members of the Corvallis Art Guild. More information can be found at corvallisartguild.net.
Photos of Fleischman’s artwork currently on display at the Kalapuya Building are available online: https://www.flickr.com/photos/196115871@N03/albums/72177720332372384
