4 months now. It's tough to break in, and the economy being the way it is doesn't make it any easier! However, I've been able to find a little bit of freelance work and possibly some PA stuff with the TV show and films being shot here. It's all about networking and being persistent I've found. I think I'll do just fine here in the long run.
About 15 years. It's great. I have found a cool little niche for myself. And am able to be creative at least 50% of the year whether I am playing, making music and or designing flyers and working.
I've been here all my life, and feel that Portland has a great art community. Portland also has the potential of becoming one of the next big design cities.