Every year, Issaquah-based artist group artEAST puts together a show which seeks to do more than just put pretty things on walls, or display conversation pieces. Their mission is no less than to unearth the true champions of community in our midst — those who contribute regularly and with a commitment that often goes unnoticed by all but a few.

The name of this show is “Collective Memory: the spirit of community in art,” and it features collaborations between local artists and honored community members.

“In previous years we’ve had everyone from the Mayor to the mailman,” said artEAST’s Karen Abel, curator of the show. “We really look for a wide variety of community members, the unsung heroes, people who have contributed to the fabric of the community.”

Collective Memory was launched in 2007, when 18 artEAST artists partnered with a group of citizens who, in their own unique and very different ways, helped shape the community. Following a successful show in 2008, Collective Memory is now becoming an integral part of the local art calendar.

An artist is matched up with their “non-artist” community hero at the beginning of the summer.

What follows is a two month collaboration in painting, sculpture, glass or photography — the medium can be anything the artists choses.

The artists’ goal is to honor their partner by telling their story through the form of visual art.

It is a portrait that goes beyond the appearance of the person, delving into the character of the community member and relating their relationship with Issaquah and the surrounding district.

This year’s honored community members include the founder of Pine Lake Presbyterian Church, Bob Gray, the founder of Village Theatre, Robb Hunt, Physician John Milne, and Community Leader Barbara de Michele.

The public will get their chance to check out these unique pieces at the Up Front Art Gallery, 48 Front Street N., on Tuesday, Sept. 15.

For more information, contact www.arteast.org.