Celebrating Oregon - Rogue Valley Int'l–Medford (MFR)

Passengers traveling into and out of Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport (MFR) in southern Oregon will likely recognize the large new mural in the main terminal. It’s a giant version of the colorful image that appears on license plates throughout the state.

Liza Burns created Celebrate Oregon! to help commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Oregon Cultural Trust. Her work depicts the local landscape, with a detailed overlay of graphic symbols that represent key aspects of the state’s heritage, arts and culture. Look closely and you’ll see significant landmarks, wildlife, historical references and many other gems.

“Ideally, every Oregonian can find something they recognize and love about Oregon,” says the artist.  

Burns worked with cultural content experts selected by the Governor’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to determine which symbols to include. A QR code posted near the mural connects viewers to an interactive key that provides more information about the 127 symbols that adorn the vibrant mountain, rivers, valleys and beaches.

Niki Price, board chair of the Cultural Trust, emphasizes how topical the artwork is: “The new design, built on a panorama of Oregon geography, reflects and respects the diversity of our culture at a time we need it most.”

Airport Director Jerry Brienza notes that MFR chose to display the artwork pre-security near the baggage claim area so both passengers and greeters can enjoy it.

MFR debuted the new artwork in September. Additional versions also painted by Burns will subsequently be unveiled at Redmond Municipal, Portland International and Eugene Airport. All four airport murals were sponsored by GreenCars.com, an organization that promotes the use and purchase of electric and hybrid vehicles.