Teenage Reflections: Art Rooted in Silverton for Mother’s Day

Abe Nelson paints historic downtown Stilverton for mother's day gift.

SILVERTON, Ore. – May 5, 2025 – Abe Nelson, a *1994 GED Recipient and owner of Inkwell’s Studio in Bremerton, Washington, has returned to his hometown to create a painting of Silverton, Oregon’s historic downtown as a Mother’s Day gift for his stepmom. The artwork captures the view from Main Street facing Silver Creek, featuring the town’s historic storefronts along the creek in the Willamette Valley.

Nelson, known for his artistry at Inkwell’s Studio, where he crafts his own ink, shared the inspiration for the piece. “My mother loves it here,” he said. “She’s drawn to Silverton’s small-town charm and the beauty of the creek.” The painting, which Nelson said took several hours to complete, depicts the buildings lining *Main Street.

Silverton, known for its historic district and proximity to the Oregon Garden, served as the setting for Nelson’s work.

With Mother’s Day nearing, Nelson’s painting serves as a tribute to his mother, inspired by her connection to Silverton’s historic downtown and its scenic creek. The artwork reflects his ties to the town where he spent his *teenage years capturing a specific moment and place in Silverton’s landscape through his artistic lens.

Abe Nelson's finished piece of downtown Silverton. Submitted by Abe Nelson