City of Woodburn Presents Local Artist Brenda Valentin-Bravo

Woodburn is known for its cultural diversity, resonating with local heritage, talent, and celebrations that highlight its prominent Hispanic population. A recent art exhibit at the Bungalow Theatre featured colorful paintings by local artist Brenda Valentin-Bravo, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Brenda serves the Woodburn School District as Migrant Graduation Specialist.

If you were fortunate enough to view Brenda’s paintings at the Bungalow Theatre in September, you’ll appreciate their thematic connection with November’s Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This Mexican tradition, celebrated primarily on the 1st and 2nd of November, is a time for families to come together to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away. The holiday is a vibrant celebration of life and death as part of the natural cycle, and Brenda’s works take a look at how that plays into Hispanic heritage and culture.

Inspired by her mother’s folk art and a family legacy of artisans, Brenda taught herself to paint and has continued the tradition of creating vibrant pieces that embody cultural pride and personal storytelling. Each painting is a gathering of memories — of time spent in Mexico, of ancestral traditions, of her indigenous roots. “I pour all of who I am and where I come from into my paintings,” Brenda says. “Even in difficult times or in things that may not appear beautiful, I find color, life, and meaning. That is what I share in my work.”

Woodburn Museum & Bungalow Theatre, located at 455 N Front Street is open Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Student artwork from Washington Elementary and Nellie Muir will be on display in the Theatre through November 8. Be sure to stay informed on upcoming events and additional art exhibits at Woodburn Museum and Bungalow Theater by visiting the City of Woodburn website, woodburn-or.gov, and selecting “Our Community”,“Community Events”, or “Museum & Theatre.” To share what you’d like to see in the Bungalow Theatre space, click on the Survey link on “Museum & Theatre.”

Walk, shop, & dine in the heart of Woodburn! Join in every second Friday of the month along N 1st & N Front St. in Downtown Woodburn. Enjoy extended hours at the Museum and the Bungalow Theatre. November 14, the Bungalow Theatre is holding Open Storytelling Night from 5-7 p.m. Come share a personal story or poem that highlights traditions and memories reflecting the history and spirit of Woodburn. 

To register for Open Storytelling Night or to fill out an Artist Interest Form, select the “Eventeny” link from the “Fridays on 1st & Front” tab and scroll to the bottom of the page. 

We’re here for you! Contact Jennifer Gritt, Museum Curator (971)446-1441, jennifer.gritt@ci.woodburn.or.us; or Emily Tierney, Events & Special Programs Manager (503) 982-5239, emily.tierney@ci.woodburn.or.us.