Michelle Grabner Curates Expansive 2016 Portland Biennial Exploring Northwest Regionalism

Michelle Grabner, an artist and curator, is behind Portland2016, the fourth iteration of the Portland Biennial organized by Disjecta Contemporary Art Center. This event showcases 34 artists selected from more than 400 submissions and is ongoing until September 18, 2016, across various venues in Oregon, including both galleries and unique locations. Grabner explored over 100 studios throughout the state to broaden perceptions of Oregon's art scene. Among the featured artists are Whitney Minthorn, Ryan Woodring, Avantika Bawa, Jack Featherly, Julia Oldham, and Colin Kippen. Additionally, project spaces like Cherry & Lucic, Muscle Beach, and Project Grow are part of the biennial. Grabner compares this experience with her role in the 2014 Whitney Biennial, encouraging artists to engage with both local and international issues. The event was known as the Oregon Biennial and was previously sponsored by the Portland Art Museum until 2006.