​The History & Success of Cerimon House
A Sanctuary for the Arts & Humanities

COMMUNITY  |  CREATIVITY  |  CURIOSITY  |  CEREMONY

This notable gathering space was among the largest of the brick-&-mortar projects launched by Upon These Boards. The unique convening space and institution -  located in Portland, Oregon (2007-2020) - presented a rotating schedule of performances, concerts, gallery shows, life celebrations, activism, and municipal gatherings. 

​The endeavor was founded by artist & activist Randall Stuart, and programmed a variety of literary salons, symposia, and theatrical events for its first four years (in various venues & locales) and then in 2011 a proper home was found: a former guild hall that was mere weeks from the wrecking ball. A restoration phase began in earnest, realized by a dedicated circle of artists, strategists, architects, designers, and builders.

The name "Cerimon" originates from Shakespeare's play Pericles of Tyre, 
in which the healer Cerimon's residence 
​is a place of restoration for the citizens of Ephesus. ​

Located in the Alberta Arts District, the building was reimagined and restored, opening to the public in 2015. The sanctuary bubbled with civic activity, art, sciences, education, nuptials & memorials. The organization closed its doors in 2020 in the midst of the worldwide pandemic, however the edifice itself still stands and serves the local community.

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Slide Show:
​
CERIMON HOUSE:
The Community Gathers 

An everlasting gratitude to ​the donors, designers,
investors & volunteers who dreamed it all into being. ​