Why we exist

In Bend, creatives work alone, young talent leaves, and the connections that build a creative economy don't happen on their own. As an official non-profit, On The Lawn exists to change that.

How it started

It started last year, when RADCAT Design and Three Pines teamed up to put on one event for Bend's creatives and business leaders. It worked. So we're doing it every year, and building the pieces around it that keep the community connected in between. We're two studios and a growing group of people who think Bend's creative scene deserves a place to show up.

Mission

Bring creatives, learners, and businesses together to grow and thrive in Bend.

Vision

Bend is the creative hub of Central Oregon. Work happens in connection, not in silos.

Core belief

Everyone is creative.

Values

Every gathering has a purpose. Authentic. Show up as yourself, not your title or your pitch.Organic. Relaxed rooms grow real relationships. Invested in Bend's creatives, businesses, and emerging talent.

How we get there

Intentional gatherings, year-round connection tools, and programming that opens doors for the next generation. With local businesses, colleges, and creative organizations, we turn networking into lasting relationships, opportunities, and a stronger creative economy in Bend.

Program pillars

Gather

In-person events for Bend's creative community.Annual conference, networking events, workshops led by local creatives and business leaders, pop-ups co-hosted with local studios, makers, and venues. Measured by: annual attendance, events per year, attendees who made a meaningful new connection, post-event collaborations.

Grow

Tools that keep the community connected all year.A searchable directory of Bend creatives and creative businesses, a board for jobs, projects, and collaborations, and a platform for ongoing connection and matchmaking around shared goals. Measured by: directory listings, monthly active users, connections made, jobs and collaborations sourced.

Plant

Investing in the next generation of creative talent in Bend, so a creative career here is visible from the start. With COCC, OSU-Cascades, and local high schools: free event access for students, student-only workshops and mentorship, school partnerships, and a year-round OTL student club. Measured by: students engaged, school partnerships, students who stay in Bend after graduation, students who say OTL changed how they see creative careers here.

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