Mission

The Hoffman Center is an Oregon nonprofit 501(c)3 organization which supports and encourages artistic, cultural and educational activities in north Tillamook County by providing facilities, funding, promotion and other assistance.

What We Are

The Hoffman Center is an art, culture, and education institution serving north Tillamook County, operating out of two buildings on the main street of Manzanita.

The main building, the former home of benefactors Lloyd and Myrtle Hoffman, hosts weekly life drawing sessions and periodic painting or drawing classes. It also provides working studio space for local artists.

The Annex, a former gift store across the street, hosts a clay studio, author readings, artist workshops, a letterpress-printing studio, dances, Chautauqua lectures, musical programs for adults, seniors, and children. The Annex is being readied for a major refurbishment, guided by architect Mark Nye. This project is expected to cost between $250,000 and $300,000.

Following completion of the Annex project, the Hoffman Center board and supporters envisions turning their attention to replacing the main building. Designed by architect Bud Oringdulph, the new, two-story building which will include a performance area, studios, office and gallery spaces. This project is expected to cost between $3.5 and $4.0 million. When both projects are completed, the Hoffman Center will serve as a hub of cultural activity and a source of pride for residents and visitors alike.

Board of Directors

Stewart Martin, Neahkahnie - A retired business lawyer who revitalized Manzanita's Spindrift Inn, Stewart is quite involved in community affairs and Rotary. Seeking to let his artistic spirit soar, soon after coming to Manzanita, he auditioned for Oklahoma! He was hooked, has been in several plays, musicals and a couple of operas, and sings with local choruses. He also enjoys hiking the area, occasionally sketching or taking photos.

David Dillon, Manzanita - A retired U.S. Navy officer and former local newspaper editor, David is a writer and photographer. He is a great fan of classical music - particularly Italian opera. David was a personal friend of the Hoffmans and is married to an artist. He holds a BS in Broadcasting and MS in Business Administration.

Ron Larson, Wheeler - An active business owner and community leader, Ron knew both Lloyd and Myrtle Hoffman through the local Kiwanis Club. Ron is keen on art education and enjoys the local arts from a spectator’s point of view. He is thankful to be able to live and work in this wonderful and vibrant community.

Gene Dieken, Nehalem - A native of eastern Iowa, Gene was educated as a fine art photographer at the University of Iowa. He later pursued a career in newspaper publishing that included a daily newspaper in Iowa and Willamette Week in Portland. In 2001, he left Portland to become a full-time coastal person and recently purchased the local web portal, http://neahkahnie.net. Gene is currently leading the renovation of the former Treasure Cave building on Laneda Avenue. The Hoffman Center purchased the building last fall and intends to transform it into the first home for Center programs.