Oregon painter Josh Gates captures communities on canvas

While some Portlanders may fuss over our long, rainy months, visual artist Josh Gates never does.

“Growing up here in the Willamette Valley I’ve been accustomed to and am really comfortable with the wet, rainy climate here to the point where it feels like home,” he says. “One of the things that I want to do is draw attention to the many different varieties of weather patterns and rain here and the different ways in which they’re beautiful.”

That love of rainy weather and a deep connection to Portland’s neighborhoods inspired Gates to create his painting series, “Words for Rain,” while he studied art at Portland State University.

Lisa Jarrett, associate professor of community and context arts, mentored Gates at PSU. A veteran artist herself, Jarrett remembers his eagerness to hone his painting skills.

“Josh was and is an incredible artist to work with. It’s hard to think of another student who has the particular combination of generosity, kindness, tenacity and just like dedication to the projects that he embarks on,” she says.

Jarrett also notes that Gates’ ability to render small details on canvas is what many people are drawn to.

“Portland is a city built of small neighborhoods and we have intimate relationships with the neighborhoods where we live. Josh is able to capture the characteristics of a particular neighborhood and if you live there, you very much recognize your community.”