Tunnel of Joy in Bend: LAPC

I often walk through this “Tunnel of Joy” by the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon. I call it that because the bright artwork is so joyful. I’ve previously featured one side of the bridge and the other but never the inside of the tunnel.

The abstract painting lining the tunnel is by artist, Tom Cramer. He works in a variety of media and is one of the most successful artists currently working in Portland, Oregon. His best-known mural was “Machine”, painted in 1989.

At first this mural appears to just be random shapes, but if you look closer you may notice shapes you recognize. I see faces, hearts, snakes, and wings. You can use your imagination to find objects in an abstract work of art.

I’m thankful the city of Bend supported the creation of this Tunnel of Joy to make all of our days a little brighter.

The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.

Friedrich Nietzsche

Lens-Artists Photo Challenge (LAPC) – Abstract

I am reposting this blog because we all need a little extra joy today. Yesterday, October 15, 2026, was a sad day here in Bend, Oregon. There was a school shooting at one of our elementary schools. Three children and a teacher died and another child and teacher were injured. The 16-year-old shooter was killed by a bystander. Our community members are all grieving for the affected families.

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