STUDENTS OF BUCKMAN SUN
BRIGHT IDEAS, TINY HANDS
Each year, the Buckman SUN program brings a burst of imagination to the Portland Winter Light Festival and this season, their young artists are back with some of their most delightfully inventive work yet. From Big Hugs and Danny the Flying Deer to a Miniature Museum of Illuminated Pigeons, these projects showcase the creativity of students in grades 1–5, each designing and building their own piece in media ranging from textiles to sculpture.
ALL THE LITTLE THINGS, THROUGH YOUNG EYES
This year’s theme, All The Little Things, invited students to think about small sources of joy, meaning, and magic. Their ideas blossomed into everything from heartfelt tributes to the power of a hug to tiny glowing worlds, like a cozy mouse home filled with luminescent cheese.
Every piece reveals a child’s perspective on wonder: playful, sincere, unexpected, and full of heart.
A GROWING TRADITION
This marks the third year that the Buckman SUN program has participated in the Winter Light Festival. For some of the 5th graders, it’s also their third time returning as featured artists—one last chance to share their creativity with the city before graduating from elementary school.
The program’s continued involvement has become a beloved part of the festival, giving Portlanders a glimpse into the imaginations of young makers while fostering pride, confidence, and community for the students who create the work.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026
Be sure to include Buckman Elementary on your list of sites to visit during the Festival, February 6–14, 2026. These young artists are ready to share their tiny worlds of light, and they can’t wait for you to see what they’ve made. Days and hours may be different from the main Festival; be sure to check the website before heading out!
Buckman Elementary
320 SE 16th Ave, Portland
A community-powered event
Thanks to support from individuals like you- families, local businesses, art-lovers, community partners and sponsors, the Light Festival exists.
Contributions help:
- Present over 200 FREE light-based art installations and performances citywide
- Support emerging and established artists with stipends and production resources
- Activate public spaces, small businesses and vacant storefronts during winter
- Create inclusive, family-friendly experiences that welcome people of all ages
