ARTS AND CULTURE SYNONYMOUS WITH SANDPOINT’S
PEND OREILLE ARTS COUNCIL
C
itizens call it “The Long Bridge Experience.” It’s when one sees the heart-
stopping beauty of Lake Pend Oreille on either side and a magnificent view of
Schweitzer Mountain in the distance ahead. Many people credit this sight with the
reason they decided to move to Sandpoint and countless visitors say this is why they
come back year after year.
It’s no surprise that artists of all genres find themselves at home here with such an
impressive array of subject matter to fuel their creativity. And, thanks to Pend Oreille
Arts Council, these artists are able to showcase their talents at the many events the
arts organization sponsors each year.
kathy hubbard
PEND OREILLE ARTS COMMISSION
Kathy Hubbard has been on the board of
directors of the Pend Oreille Arts Council
since 2009. She is a freelance journalist who
writes a weekly column on health issues that’s
published in Sandpoint’s daily newspaper
and she also writes regular press releases for
POAC and other non-profits in the area. Kathy
is passionate about collecting art created by
local artists.
Pend Oreille Arts Council
110 Main St #101,
Sandpoint, ID 83864
52
ART CHOWDER MAGAZINE
And, it’s not just about established artists; budding artists within the Bonner County
school district have their own unique opportunities to be exposed to arts and cultural
events not typically found in small rural communities.
The mission statement, “Pend Oreille Arts Council exists to facilitate quality
experiences in the arts through educational programs and presentations that benefit
the people of North Idaho” is the commitment of the board of directors and many
volunteers who make POAC’s events successful.
Each year POAC sponsors a Performing Arts Series that brings music, dance and
theatrical presentations to town during the fall, winter and spring months. Cost of
tickets is kept affordable to attract as many people as possible and every event is
family-friendly.
To fulfill the self-ordered commitment to education, each performance has a
component that involves local school children as part of POAC’s Ovations program.