Grants Pass, OR — The Josephine Community Library is inviting the public to join in a special moment of celebration this coming week as it unveils its latest addition to the city’s beloved BearFest collection: a whimsical new sculpture titled “Beary Tales.” The free event will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18, on the grounds of the Grants Pass library at 200 NW C Street.
Made possible through the generous sponsorship of Evergreen Federal Bank, Beary Tales is the newest bear to join the annual BearFest—a cherished summer tradition in Grants Pass that transforms the city into a vibrant outdoor art gallery. This particular sculpture features two young bears sitting side by side with books in their paws, joyfully immersed in a world of stories. Its theme was chosen to celebrate the magic of storytime and the importance of fostering a love for reading among children and adults alike.
To mark the occasion, the Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce will partner with the library to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by the Chamber’s team of Ambassadors. Following the formal unveiling, attendees will have an opportunity to meet the bear’s creator, local artist Kel Letvenchuck, who will be on hand to discuss her work and share the story behind Beary Tales at 1 p.m.
For the library, the new bear is more than a decorative addition to its grounds. It serves as a playful, permanent symbol of the community’s shared commitment to literacy, education, and the arts—values that the library has long championed through its programs and outreach. The sculpture stands as a gentle reminder that reading and storytelling are powerful tools for learning, imagination, and connection, especially for the youngest members of the community.
Evergreen Federal Bank’s sponsorship of Beary Tales continues the institution’s long-standing support for both the arts and educational initiatives in Josephine County. Its contribution made it possible to commission the sculpture and bring another chapter of BearFest to life this summer.
Artist Kel Letvenchuck is no stranger to the BearFest project—or to the local arts community. After moving to Grants Pass from Southern California in 1993, she quickly became an active presence in the regional arts scene, volunteering with the Grants Pass Museum of Art and collaborating with fellow artists. Letvenchuck’s relationship with BearFest began in 2003 when she was first invited to paint a bear for the event. Over the past two decades, she has contributed eight different bears to the collection and developed unique techniques for working with fiberglass and sculptural surfaces.
In 2024, Letvenchuck was asked to revisit and redesign her original 2004 bear created for the Josephine Community Library. With input from the library team, she reimagined the piece into what is now Beary Tales, incorporating her signature blend of charm, storytelling, and visual appeal. The sculpture reflects not only her personal style but also her deep appreciation for how art and literacy can inspire curiosity and bring a community together.
With BearFest kicking off across the city this summer, the addition of Beary Tales to the library grounds offers one more reason for residents and visitors alike to explore the vibrant collection of bears scattered throughout Grants Pass. The June 18 unveiling promises to be a joyful gathering for families, art lovers, and library supporters alike—a celebration of both public art and the timeless magic of a good book.
For more information about BearFest, the event, or the artist, the community is encouraged to visit the library on the day of the unveiling or contact Kel Letvenchuck directly at Kelsbiz@gmail.com or 541-660-2373.