My favorite thing about Downtown Bend is the public art work.  The neat thing about public spaces is that they take an entire diverse community to create them.  Unlike a mall, public spaces are made by (and for) the community.  When I am walking around in Downtown Bend, I marvel at all of the unique jobs, individuals, and stories that created the atmosphere.  ​

For Downtown Bend, this is even more intriguing as the story began 100 years ago, when brave entrepreneurs (just like the ones today!) set up shops in Downtown Bend, streets were made, sidewalks developed, buildings went up, trees were planted - and Downtown Bend as we know it was born.  

This historic footprint allows for the rich culture that we experience in Downtown Bend today.  Artists, performers, buskers, and small business owners build on this footprint, weaving in the richness of each individual's experience into the tapestry that is our Downtown.  

The photo above was taken by Miguel Edwards Photography in Gasoline Alley between Oregon and Minnesota Ave in Downtown Bend.  There are works of art like these all around our Downtown area, and every time I see one, and I ask myself:  What was the artist feeling that created this expression?  How much joy did they feel as they set it up on display for others to witness?  As people walk by, what emotions do these art pieces evoke? If Can o'Beans, Dirty Sock and Spoon were walking through Downtown Bend and viewed this art, what ironies would be exposed and what veils of society lifted?

Art is an important part of our community, and Downtown Bend plays the perfect host.

About the author:

Mindy Aisling is a local Bendite with a love for the outdoors, Irish whiskey, bar trivia, stand-up-comedy, live music, and all things goofy and ridiculous.  A multi-generational entrepreneur, Mindy is passionate about small business, shopping local and commitment to community.  Currently Mindy serves as the Executive Director for the Downtown Bend Business Association. 

When I walk into Looney Bean in Downtown Bend, I am greeted with smiles and the smell of coffee.  This never fails to bring me as much joy as my cup of locally roasted coffee will as soon as I consume it.
 
​Looney Bean is housed in an old converted cottage on the Deshutes River. ​ This makes it feel like you are visiting an old friend when you go there.  In the Winter, the fire is roaring in the fireplace and in the summer the dogs and the kids are playing in the back yard by the river.  It's so homey, in fact, that the only thing missing is my dad with his bad jokes and my mother in her mom jeans.  

My first choice is meeting up with friends here for lively caffeinated conversation, but I also use it as a I-work-from-home-please-help-me-escape second work location.  Because it is an old house, there are lots of different rooms to hide away in with your laptop to complete some quality work.

We have a ton of great cafes in Bend, but (for me), Looney Bean is a stand-out.

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