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"Love Thy Neighbor" a tribute to C.H. Rockey

2/5/2020

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​Kelly Green is the coordinator for the “Love Thy Neighbor” gallery show
 
I have been creating art and drawing for as long as I can remember. I have been a self-representing artist since 2001 and a proud Colorado resident and Commonwheel Co-op member for the past 5+ years.
 
I would see Rockey around town when I first moved to Colorado over 5 years ago and became a member at Commonwheel Co-op, but I didn't know who he was. I knew he was local because I would see him often when I was working shifts in the Co-op. 
 
Then one morning at Commonwheel I read an article about Rockey in the Independent and a few minutes later he walked by the front window. The next time I came to Manitou Springs Rockey was sitting outside his house next door and I realized that he lived right there. I said "Hello" to him and we had a short casual morning chat. 
 
Later on, I had the opportunity to sit with Rockey a few times and randomly talk about art and life when he was outside his house next door to Commonwheel on sunny days when I would be on my way into the Co-op. One afternoon I was bringing in some really detailed large canvas prints to hang at Commonwheel and Rockey was outside on his bench next door enjoying the morning sun and watching people. I said hello to him, and he asked to see my art, so I went over and sat next to him and showed him the two prints. He was so enthusiastic, so curious and so sweet about my work that I immediately wished I could sit and talk with him more that day and often, but I only had a few minutes before my shift started next door. I live quite a distance away in the plains and am often pressed for time to get to work or home. 
 
We parted ways and I went next door to work. About an hour after my shift started I went into the backroom at Commonwheel to write a request on our list of supply items that need to be purchased and right next to the list was a handwritten note with a call for part time help to frame some of Rockey's work. I wrote down the number for David Ball at the bottom of the page and when I got home that evening I contacted David. David replied quite quickly, and I went to work framing with David a few weeks later in the basement of Rockey's house.
 
I found this to be an incredible synchronicity to find the call for help right after I'd wished to be able to get to know Rockey more. I have extensive framing experience and the opportunity to see, handle and frame an enormous treasure-trove of work Rockey did over decades was really beyond anything I could have imagined. The earliest piece I remember framing was a lovely portrait of his mother that he created using pastels in the 1950's.
 
I framed some of his college work, marbled paper he created for his students when he was a professor, portraits, concert posters, landscapes and so much more. Rockey put himself into his art more than most artists do and so I felt that I came to know him really well, and with each piece I had the rare opportunity to examine I came to know and love the art and the artist even more, but not in the way I had imagined on the bench that afternoon talking about my art. Rockey's health declined over this period of time when I was framing, and I didn't have many opportunities to catch with him after that, but while I was in the basement framing, I often thought about how huge Rockey's impact must have been in so many ways and on so many people since he taught, produced art, and lived in Manitou so long. When I first conceived of this show inspired by Rockey he was still with us and I had hoped he would see all of the work that he had inspired. I had the show proposal written up but not submitted when I left for Montana to see my mom. Rockey passed away while I was in Montana and so the proposal was submitted once I returned from my trip.
 
My daughter, Hali Honigbaum, and I tried our hands at marbled paper for this show and that process was definitely inspired by me having seen some of the paper that Rockey marbled for his classes to use, and also I got to frame some of the marbled paper pieces he finished or partially finished. I found it really interesting that he worked often in mixed medias like I do often, searching out images within water-colored paper. Rockey did that with his marbled papers and encouraged his students to do this as well. I really loved marbled balloons as a kid, and seeing these works made me actually feel a somewhat desperate need to know how to marble paper myself.  In one of many synchronicities that I experienced with Rockey's work I stopped at Ross that evening to buy some craft kits and art supplies as a birthday present for a party my daughter was invited to the next day. There in the small craft section was one marbled paper kit for $5.00. I scooped it up, and a few months later Hali and I marbled enough paper to cover the dining room table and the entire floor. It was so much fun! Hali is showing a piece she marbled and I am showing a piece I marbled and then detailed with pen and ink pointillism.
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The Path to Pike's Peak by Kelly Green
​I really like the way that "The Path to Pike's Peak" turned out. I don't often do landscapes, but when I do, they usually end up with a checkerboard ground. I framed a really early series of 4 pieces that Rockey did where he was exploring perspective and horizon and one of them had a checkerboard that instantly reminded me of a couple of pieces I did a decade ago, though Rockey's were actually created two decades before mine. I knew I wanted to do a local scene using the checkerboard then. 
 
The Octomaiden/Mermapus/ sculpture "Iscariot" by Trace O-Connor marks the spot along my path from the plains in Eastern Colorado where I live to Manitous Springs where it seems that the vibe changes and things get a little weird in a really good way.  The Octopus is also a recurring theme in my art so when this sculpture popped up there on top of that rooftop I was pretty excited and curious about her from the start. I did some research and found that another town disowned her before Colorado Springs took her in. That seems appropriate.
 
My artwork can always be found locally in Commonwheel Artist Co-op in Manitou Springs and Colorado Creative Co-op in Old Colorado City. I also currently have a few original pieces at The Perk downtown Colorado Springs through the end of February and I have a new pen and ink piece showing in Kreuser Gallery's 'Gratitude' group show opening February 7th.
 
Online you can find my etsy shop at
https://www.etsy.com/shop/frootkake 
and I am doing the social media thing on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kellygreenhbaum/ 
 
 
 
 
 
Lorraine Capps
Like many people, I had to wait until I retired until I had time to pursue art. I have experimented with many media, some of which I still enjoy, but glass is the medium that stole my heart and soul. I have been working in kiln formed (fused) glass for about 15 years.
 
I first saw Rockey's paintings at Adams Mountain Cafe, and then began to learn more about his generous spirit and his love of  Manitou.
 
My pieces in this exhibit were inspired by my love for Manitou and the surrounding area, so I thought they would be a fitting tribute to Rockey.
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The Garden of the Gods, glass art by Lorraine Capps
​The piece above, "Garden of the Gods" is my favorite because it captures the essence of Pike Peak and Garden of the Gods, some of my favorite scenery on the planet!
 
 My work can be seen on Facebook at LoLo's Paloozas.
 
 
 
 
Mary Clifford
I classify my work as folk art. Folk Art comes out of one's culture. My mother and father were depression/ WWII parents. Times were lean and you learned to make do but our home was rich in folk art. We had beautiful quilts, rugs, pictures, table clothes, and dolls made from leftover or reused yarns and fabrics.
 
I am self-taught in making and designing my fabric pottery after seeing a piece in a heritage art center in Berea, Kentucky. I have always loved the way different fabrics, threads, and notions can come together to make something beautiful. It is much like a potter with their clay, paints, and glazes making a beautiful piece of pottery
 
I first came to know about C. H. Rockey when my daughter excitedly showed me a painting over her mantel. It was by Rockey and I loved it. Soon we had a Rockey painting over our mantel. Then it was exciting to learn about him and his work, see his studio, or catch sight of him about Manitou Springs. Now it is exciting to be associate with him through this show. 
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Mary Clifford
​My small piece of Fabric Pottery was made especially for the show. Inspired by Rockey, I wanted it to be unique, earthy, soft in color, whimsical, and express love. The piece was made entirely from materials I had on hand. I have never used wool in my work before. I decided to give it a try for I thought it would give that earthly, whimsical look I wanted. I liked that the unspun wool came from Colorado sheep. I found gold silk thread that had been my fathers, who was a tailor. The thread was on a wood spool and wood spools have not been used since the 1970s. To express love, I make every heart unique using pieces of ribbon, trim, and beads that have been saved over time.
<<image of Mary’s piece>>
 
 
 
Denise Duker
My Art is inspired by wanderlust and a deep respect for the natural world and the diverse people in it. I am fascinated with the mystical and the unexpected.
 
One never knows which way a painting is going to lead you. A painting has its own way of evolving; sometimes you just have to get out of the way and let the process happen. There is magic in every moment, if I can catch that moment in my art and share it with you, then I am successful.
 
When we first moved to Colorado, 24 years ago, the first place we visited was Manitou. Although we had to live within 15 min of the AF Academy, my ideal place was Manitou. Almost every weekend we would come for breakfast at Adams, kids would explore the town, and I would dream that this is little art town was the perfect place to live. This led me to the beautiful blue Mansard studio and Rockey's home on the corner of Canyon Ave. Rocky was sitting in his studio painting when I walked in.
 
He invited me to come in, sit down, and we talked. I discovered that he had been a middle school art teacher, as I was at the time. He told me not to worry, there was an art life after teaching. He shared his teaching experiences with me and gave me ideas on how to trigger the unexpected in art.
 
Rockey gave me an incentive to continue teaching but also to know that art would always be my love and vocation. After retiring from teaching and moving to Manitou, I could stop in to say hello more often. Rockey has the most open and beautiful heart of anyone I have known.
 
I had been working on my portrait of Rockey before this show. When he passed away, I wanted to paint him. I had photographs of him through the years and always was inspired by his Gandalf qualities. My children call Manitou Rivendale and Rockey is definitely an evolved being. His dedication to his art, his community, and his faith is inspirational. The portrait of Hannah Rockey and her parrot, Sebastian was from my photograph of the two of them. This painting was given to Hannah and is available in Giclee print form.
 
Picture
Ruxton Creek Swing by Denise Duker
​“Ruxton Creek Swing” is a painting from a photograph that I took last Fall in front of what was once Victoria’s Keep B&B. I loved how the brilliant Indian Summer light filtered through the leaves and the water. Magical!
 
The portrait of Rockey in this exhibit is my favorite painting. It was inspired from my last visit with Rockey. The late morning light filtering into his studio, Hannah with her parrot, Sebastian, on her shoulder and Rockey looking so peaceful and wise is how I will always remember him with deep gratitude for his kindness and his open heart.
 
My work can be found at:
Gallery 113, 125 1/2 N Tejon, Colorado Springs
Web page: deniseduker.com 
Instagram: denisedukerart
Email: deniseduker@gmail.com
 
 
 
 
Pat Eastlake
Pat Eastlake went to an art/design school in 1970-76 in Columbus, Ohio where he was a painter, printmaker and sculpture. He worked as a woodworker and designer and earned a Master of Design degree from an art/ design school in Cincinnati. He has worked full time as an architectural woodwork designer, but now is mostly retired.
 
I went to drawing classes in the early 1990s at BAC (now MAC) and smilingly sat next to Rockey several times. It was always a pleasure to see him around town, and in Adams Mountain Cafe. I have been influenced by the spirit of his landscape oil paintings.
 
My two accepted paintings exemplify the variation in my oil paintings, sometimes graphic and symbolic, and sometimes naturalistic.  During the last four years I have been working to pull those two aspects together, trying to develop my visual language.
 
I like my painting “Island in the Sea” because it is clean and fresh.
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Island in the Sea by Patrick Eastlake
​Wendy Fay
I have lived in Manitou Springs for 24 years. As a child I grew up in a home that had original artwork and was encouraged to draw as a young person. Later, after college I became interested in painting. I have been an art educator and administrator for many years and am enjoying painting again.
 
After we moved here, I purchased a print of Rockey’s work. My husband displayed it in his office in Colorado Springs.  It’s a wonderful image full of beauty and intriguing details of Manitou Springs. I was able to study his original work in businesses throughout the town. Tina and Ken Riesterer kindly introduced me to Rockey. I was impressed by the quickness of his mind and his strong opinions about painting.
 
Rockey had a profound connection to the built and natural environments of Manitou Springs. Although my approach to painting is different from his, each piece of mine in this exhibit represents the same passion for place. These works were painted on-site in Red Rock Canyon.
 
Since I have not been selling my work, it can be found in my studio and in the homes of friends and family!

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Wendy Fay
Katia Franz-Gardner
I was born and raised in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Art was and continues to be a safe haven for me. As an elementary school student, the once-weekly art class at my school was the one hour a week where I felt I could enter a state of meditation, freedom, and giddy creative joy. I chased that feeling and leaned heavily on art throughout my adolescence. In high school I began branching out more, painting murals, completing commissioned work, entering art competitions, and exploring my sense of purpose and empowerment through artistic expression. Now, in my young adulthood, I'm exploring how my artistic practice and research can merge to communicate the key ideas I believe we all need to focus on to survive as a species. Art continues to be a supportive place for me, just as much as it's a vehicle for change. 
 
About seven years ago, I was sitting on the bench across from Rockey's studio watching the birds nesting in the bushes. Even though I was dreadfully shy, when I saw his door was open - I heard a voice inside myself that told me to go in. I'm grateful that I did and consider it to be one of the best decisions I've ever made. Rockey and I quickly became friends - sharing meals, sketchbook entries, and long conversations about love, loss, clouds, uncertainty, hope, faeries, and all things nature. During the summers I'd help Rockey with projects around the house and chores as much as he'd allow - then during the winter and spring of 2019 I joined the team of folks supporting him in his end of life transition. Our moments together during that time are ones I hold most sacred.
 
I've painted Rockey several times throughout my time knowing him - inspired by his personality and deeper layers of being. My piece "Rockey's New Canvas" was created a few days after his passing, as a way to honor him and process my grief and immense gratitude
 
You can find my work at katia-rhapsody.com as well as contact information. I'm currently residing in the Pacific Northwest and sell my art locally in this area, but can ship to/work in Colorado as opportunities arise.

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Rockey's New Canvas by Katia Franz-Garrison
​Jonathan Jensen
I am an amateur photographer and eccentric editor thereof. I've been keen on arts since early childhood (still have a magnet on the fridge of a dragon I drew in first or second grade). I started getting into taking pictures when in middle school and by the time I got my first smart phone, I had begun editing pictures in a unique fashion.
 
I met the late artist once prior to his passing at the church next to the Manitou library and I believe I attended an event celebrating him and an apprentice of his at the MAC. I recall the prior more vividly as I sat in a peculiar position above most and I had noticed a kindly old man sitting off to one side, doodling away on the program (of which I might still have somewhere, maybe). Everyone was so kind,  loving and respectful of the man whom I was soon introduced to. I mean, to be so frail yet big of heart and kind in spirit,  what's not to be inspired by?
 
I am ever challenging myself with different techniques and styles for my artwork. Honestly, I did not create something new for this show, I looked through my collection of favorites, whilst going through the pamphlet I got from his gallery, trying to decide which one would best fit the motif. I hope I chose wisely.
 
I suppose the best place to find my work is on Instagram (The_Acidic_Æsthetics) though I've frequently had my work put up in the MAC.
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digital photography by Jonathan Jensen
​Julie Kirkland 
I paint a variety of subjects, but light is the true focus of my work.  I’m attracted to the strong contrasts that light and shadow create as well as the drama it adds to a painting. Besides having an instant impact on viewers, the light, or lack of it, seems essential in telling a story with otherwise seemingly ordinary subjects.   My work appears in private and corporate collections around the country and abroad and has appeared on the cover of several magazines.  
 
Two years ago, I had the pleasure of spending an afternoon with Rockey. I was painting the back of his head to include in my “About Face” series. As we visited, he shared with me the story of what he described as the most romantic date of his entire life, which had happened just the previous evening at The Cliff House. It was a sweet and touching story that lit his face from within. 
 
“Love Thy Neighbor” presented me the excuse to paint one of the pictures that I shot of Rockey that afternoon. I kept the portrait loose to convey the character in his face. While I often paint a solid background with portraits, it seemed fitting in this case to surround him with a Manitou landscape inspired by one of his own paintings.
 
My work is represented locally by The Hunter-Wolff Gallery in Old Colorado City and can be seen at www.juliekirkland.com and on my Facebook page, Julie Kirkland Fine Art.
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portrait of Rockey by Julie Kirkland
​Larysa Martyniuk 
Art has always been an integral part of my life. I remember standing near a chalkboard and drawing before I even attended kindergarten. Throughout my college science career, I always managed to fit in art classes. 
 
I was very fortunate to be able to use my art while raising my son. Working with local builders I created various murals and faux [finish] projects.
 
In the mid 2000 I had a studio at the BAC and it was then that I was fortunate to become friends with Rockey. I spent time with him while he was working on his book with graphic designer David Ball. He was always so appreciative when I brought over home cooked meals. 
 
Picture
diptych by Larisa Martyniuk
​My piece "Tree Whispers" is a work that I especially created for this tribute show. Rockey would give a piece of paper that had abstract flowing forms on it and ask his students to see what they could see as a starting point for their drawing.  Thus, I took two wooden panels and saw trees whispering to me. As a nature aficionado I'm sure Rockey was whispering to me when I decided to create this diptych.
 
My art is represented in various galleries in Colorado, among them Kreuser Gallery, Bella Art, Side Door, Naked Aspen Designs.  In SD Morris Grand Gallery represents my work. Recently my work was juried into Modbo/SPQR small works exhibit. 
 
Larysa Martyniuk
www.magentalarysa.com
https://thesolagallery.com/LarysaMartyniuk 
 
 
 
Linda Newton
I am a self-taught artist and have been painting since I was young. Upon retiring from an interior design career my paintings have been purchased and commissioned by many designers.  Art has always been a passion for me.
 
I did not know C. H. Rockey. however, I would have loved to.
 
Recently, I have  developed a new impressionist style with bold vibrant and exciting colors...one of my customers loved my Desert painting and stated “ it just makes me so happy".  That's why I love to paint!
Picture
By the Fire by Linda Newton
​My painting of " By The Fire" gives me a feeling of camaraderie and warmth.
 
At presently I am working on developing a website for my art. [Editor’s Note, Linda will be showing her work again in our gallery again in May 2020.]
 
 
 
 
 
Teri Rowan
About me:
I have been fascinated with photography since I was a little girl. I carried around an off-cast camera of my father’s, taking photos of everything and anything. Many years later I studied photography and digital art, garnering awards and being offered a directorship to develop a gallery. Currently, I just enjoy being an artist, and I still tend to carry my camera when going on adventures.
 
About the art:
I’m not sure my artwork fits neatly into a little box. The colors I use these days tend towards the vivid and bold. The landscapes I create are fantasy driven and surreal, as are my figurative pieces. But, I do have softer, quieter pieces that are usually nature-centric. I also have a good deal of abstract and architectural images, as well as straight landscape photography and photo journalistic images of my travels.
 
About the creative process
The creative process starts when something nudges my soul, whether it is a beautifully written line of poetry that moves me or the aftermath of a devastating forest fire. I then begin by trying to capture images that express what inspired me. The next step is importing the shots into Photoshop and layering them. A lot of trial and error takes place during creation. I may stop when I hit a wall, and work on another image for a while. I usually know when I’ve got it right. I then print a small test image to see if I’ve got the colors and levels right for output. I print my own giclee’ prints with a large format Canon Pro 9000 Mark II printer.  I print on Epson Metallic Glossy photo paper and Ilford Galerie Metallic and Smooth Gloss photo paper. They cost twice as much as the traditional papers, but the results are so worth it. The metal prints that are so popular are made by Bay Photo.
 
How am I acquainted with Rockey?
I became aware of Rockey’s artwork, long before the man. His beautiful creations grace the walls of Adam’s Mountain Café and The Cliff House, and I’m sure numerous other venues. I always admired the way he depicted Manitou Springs; the magical small town nestled in the bosom of Pike’s Peak. Later on, as a member of Commonwheel, I got used to seeing his slow coming and goings back and forth to his studio/home. Surprisingly, Rockey’s reputation as a human being was equal to his level of artistry.
 
Picture
Lavender Dawn, digital art by Teri Rowan
​How Inspired?
His love of fantasy, his warm heart, and his medium influenced my work. I had already begun both projects, but I did away with my sky in, “Lavender Dawn”, creating something softer and more painterly. I also made the color palate much warmer, where it started very pastel. I added a wee hobbit house that I thought Rockey would enjoy visiting. I imagined him looking out of the open window at the fields of flowers and enjoying the lavender scent. I continue to be inspired by his love of fantasy. After the deadline for submission passed I was still making… I have just completed a portrait of a woman enchanted by the Faery! I think Rockey would approve. She won’t be in the show, but check out my artist space at Commonwheel to get a look at, “Enchanted”.
 
Favorite image?
My own favorite piece is the aforementioned, “Lavender Dawn”.
 
My social media contacts are:
Follow me on FB - Neonmermaid9  
Follow me on Instagram – Neonmermaid9
Follow me on Etsy – NeonMermaidPrintShop
Shop with me @ Commonwheel.com
Questions? E-mail me! Neonmermaid9@yahoo.com
 
 
 
 
William Weiss
I have been a lover or art for many years.  Growing up in the Springs area where there are so many talented artists has been an inspiration.  Always having an interest in art, I took a drawing class in 2014 and have been taking classes and at local studios and art schools.  I paint in oils now, mostly landscapes, and find it an intensely compelling and rewarding practice.
 
I met Rockey in the 70’s when I first moved to Manitou.  His paintings amazed me, and he was always so friendly and kind, taking time out from his schedule to visit whenever a visitor called.  I remember talking with Rockey one day in a park when he was painting en plein air in the 80’s.  He asked what I’d been up to. I told him I had been working 12 hours shifts at the hospital ER and he said, “With my job, I get up in the morning, have breakfast and pack a lunch, grab my paints and easel, and go paint all day, whatever moves me”.
 
I thought to myself,  what an incredible job!  Of course, now that I’ve actually done some plein air painting, I realize how naive I was to think that, and how challenging it really is!
 
I never had the resources to own a Rockey, but picked up prints along the way, and he even loaned me a wonderful piece with my house in the background.  It was pure heaven having that original in our home: food and drink tasted better, the air smelled sweeter, love was more present.  It was like having a little bit of Rockey right there.  
 
I returned that painting to Rockey immediately when Hannah was calling for the return of his loaned art.  He insisted that he give me a written receipt of its return, and thanked me profoundly for returning it. I remember walking home from his studio that evening, unabashedly crying the whole way. 
 
I didn’t paint any new material for this show but pulled out some pieces that came out OK from some of my travels and classes the last couple years.  I loved Rockey’s impressionistic style and my work tends to have that kind of feel.  Also, I lack the aptitude, training, and skill to paint classic realism. 
Picture
William Weiss
Here is my favorite piece for the exhibit.  It is a print of our chimney garden on Osage Avenue (before the deer and hail got the best of it).  I love it because it captures some of the beauty and magic I experience living here in Manitou; a place where I was lucky enough to overcome some big challenges, fall in love, get married, raise 2 wonderful children, and live in such an cool, eclectic community. How lucky we are to live here!
 
I have an Instagram site that I post photos of paintings that I think came out OK, and other items of interest: @williambweiss.  I do not regularly show or have studio space…but once or twice a year I do put some pieces in local shows. I’m delighted and humbled some of my work has been accepted for the "Love Thy Neighbor” exhibit.  When I took that drawing class 5 years ago, I never dreamed it would lead me to this place.  Thank you Rockey! 
 
 
 
 
Julia L. Wright
My artistic career started with directing plays and creating sets for theatrical productions in high school and a bit past my University days in Greeley. I traveled to art festivals in 1973 selling my fiber creations that incorporated jute, wool, found objects and feathers. My work was also in as many as 6 galleries for about 15 years. After having my car t-boned, had to shift the focus of my art to basically working just with feathers. I created wall pieces and masks backed on suede. Next added feather earrings, hair pieces and pendants to be sold at Commonwheel and in my Etsy store.
 
I have always taken photos of beautiful places I have traveled to or hiked. About 6 years ago incorporated some into books I have on Amazon. Then began to play with the images to create more mandala or abstract art images. These have been displayed in various gallery shows and at Art Festivals the last 4 years.
 
I have used many of my digital art images to place in more books, on mugs, t-shirts and reusable bags. These are sold online in my Shopify Store, on Etsy and the Fine Art America web site.
 
I came to Manitou Springs in 1976 and I have known Rockey for a very long time. Often would stop for a few moments to chat when he was sitting on his bench in front of his building on my way to or from Commonwheel. He always had something positive to say about the day or asked about what I was doing, and as I was often on the way to a meeting, only had a few moments to talk.
 
During the time of the 2013 flood that filled his basement with muddy water where so much of his art and frames were stored, watched him work with dozens of friends who came to help to determine what to save, give away or throw away. He was sad but seeing all the people who came to help him, I often saw him smile and profusely thank people moving his art from one place to another. Very inspiring to always find a positive side in any situation and express gratitude for people in my life.
 
I am very lucky to have a few of the large prints that he on very rare occasions sold. They are framed and hanging around my home. And his reversible sketches fascinated me as to how he could make the work so seamlessly. And I have one hidden away somewhere in a safe place that am inspired to search out . . .
 
When the town started the Halloween tradition of having merchants hand out candy to school kids, he sat in his doorway with some costume or wearing a wizard hat or just as himself to greet the kids. Watching the joy on his face as he interacted with folks in every type of costume inspired me to try to capture him I photos at that time. The shadows and his sitting sometimes inside the door made it difficult to get perfect photographic images, but some did turn out very well and I entered them in this gallery show. The Halloween images in the show are all from 2014 when he was in his wheelchair sitting in his doorway in the sunshine.
 
I also experimented with working up some photos of Manitou Springs to look more like paintings. That was a fun challenge, and some came out better than others. Once I got started, it was hard to stop and then choose just a few to submit. I never could make the sky look as whimsical as his, but happy with the photos I did submit using some new digital art enhancing techniques for this show.
Picture
​The long view of lilacs at the town clock with Rockey’s home building and the Commonwheel in the background is my favorite image I’ll have in the show. Rockey was often seen painting the town clock park or standing there painting some distant view of the homes and hills that could be viewed from there. I still can almost feel his presence when looking at this image.
 
My work can be found
In Manitou Springs:
Feather Art & some Books/Journals at Commonwheel Artists Co-op
Some Reusable bags & mugs at the Poppy Seed
 
Online:
More Books & Journals:
       Search HieroGraphicsBooks on Amazon, mugs will show up also
 Shopify Store: https://www.hempearthart.com/  - FaceBook page of the same name.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/Fantafaces
https://julial-wright.pixels.com/    Also known as FineArtAmerica
 
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The artists of "Water in the High Desert"

1/30/2019

1 Comment

 
This is a truly beautiful show that has been assembled. We have work by 24 Front Range artists in this juried show and wow, what a mix of work. The members who hang our gallery shows were very excited to see all of this art. 

We asked these artists four questions: 
1) In a short paragraph, tell us about yourself. 
2) What does making art mean to you? 
3) What has inspired you for this show?  
4) Where can we find your work: website, social media, local stores.

Below are their responses.
Picture

Alan Boucher

I have always been told that I have an "eye for photography". I purchased my first Canon DSLR in 2010 and have been studying digital photography on my own ever since, with the help of a few inspiring hands-on workshops.  My other passion is studying wildlife behavior. So naturally my "focus" is wildlife and nature photography.  A year ago, I moved to Colorado where I have begun to expand my focus to the majestic Rocky Mountains, fascinating wildlife and beautiful flora of this area.
 
I love being in Nature and capturing it's beauty so I can share my visual images with others.
 
 Flowing water in the high desert is not as plentiful as in other part of the country that I have lived in. Any chance I get, I capture its smoothing flow and am excited to shear my images in this show.
 
Here is where you can find my images:
 
    Website:         http://www.aboucherphoto.com
 
    Facebook:      Alan Boucher Photography
 
    Local Store:   Bella Art & Frame

Ben Bires

​My grandmother was an artist with an appreciation for the environment. Growing up around her creative influences pushed me to pursue art at a young age. It started with just a pencil, then I continued with color throughout high school and graduated from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania with a BFA. I have been painting for about 10 years, focusing on landscapes and environmental awareness.
 
I like telling stories with a visual platform for the viewer to understand my interpretation of environmental issues. These statements will hopefully plant a seed to make people think more about their impact.
 
My love for the ocean. These two paintings are directed towards our acidic oceans bleaching coral reefs, our plastic problem and overall pollution to our lakes and rivers, which eventually lead to the ocean. We all live downstream!
 
BenBires.com
Facebook.com/BenBiresArtwork
 

Hedy DuCharme

"Sometimes I spend hours applying paint on a canvas before I feel Like I'm painting". Hedy DuCharme
 
Painting for me pure is relaxation and a challenge mentally and spiritually. My soul needs to create and express itself to be content and alive. It's a wonderful feeling to be totally absorbed in creating something from the mind and heart, even if it doesn't become a "best ever" creation.
 
My interest in art began in High School back in the 60's. It was the first time I was exposed to art: drawing, color, paints, clay, ink drawing, and learning to see.
 
I went on to study art and art history at Michigan State University and graduated with a BFA. I went on to teach art for 5 years. In high school and college I learned that I was most interested in painting. I love working and creating with color.
 
My favorite period of art is the Impressionists with their loose brushwork, textured paint, nature themes, natural light, and creating their own interpretation of a theme or scene.
 
For the past 10 years I have had much time to devote to painting more confidently, regularly, and with a more sincere passion then I previously had.
 
I was a docent at the Colorado Springs Fine Art Center for 13 years. I had the opportunity to be immersed in great art not just locally but in museums around the country on docent organized trips. The ongoing training in the docent program kept me engaged with art principles and theory on a regular basis, which kept me learning, and discussing art on a regular basis.
 
During this time I became more inspired to create my own work and appreciate the art of many local artists. I had to challenge myself to enter juried and non-juried shows to expand my abilities, to be challenged by new themes, and to become part of the local artists community. Traveling to the great museums in Europe has been a huge inspiration to see some of the greatest art, architecture and artists from all over the world.
 
Many of my paintings are created from photos I have taken around Colorado, New Mexico, Europe, from my garden and gardens I have visited.
 
 Submitting paintings for this "Water" themed show was a good challenge because water is such an important part of our everyday life, we can't live without it. And we enjoy water visually in the mountains—lakes, streams, waterfalls, ponds, and rain. We enjoy swimming in water, fishing, snorkeling in oceans, and walking a beach. There is life in water. We see reflections in water.
 
Water is many colors and no color making it a challenge to create on a 2-dimensional surface. I wanted to expand my use of using a sponge instead of a brush to create softer lines, layers of colors, and smooth edges, and more use of my hands than a paintbrush allows.
 
To see some of my paintings and current shows I'm exhibiting in I post them on my Facebook Page under Hedy DuCharme.
 
Locally I have exhibited at Cottonwood Center for the Arts, The former Colorado Springs Fine Art Center (docent show), Chapel of our Savior, Academy Art and Frame,, First Presbyterian Church, Discovery Church, The Bridge Gallery, and currently The Little Wine Barrel.
 
 
Contact information:
hlouducharme@comcast.net

Denise Noble

​I’ve had a love for photographing nature since childhood. While attending church camp in the summer, instead of coming home with pictures of new friends and fun times, the whole role of film would be filled with chipmunks and forested area. The passion has always been there, but it wasn’t until around 2005 that I decided to start sharing my work. There is beauty all around us, and I want to share God’s masterpieces with others.
 
 To me, making art means being able to share something unique with others. I want the viewer to feel that they are in the photograph ~ that they can feel the cold, or smell the flower, or touch the tree.
 
Water is a powerful force on different levels. Whether it's the vastness of an ocean, or the intense momentum of a waterfall, they can equally make one feel like they're a minute part of our universe.
 
You can find my work at Facebook.com/ANobleTouchPhotography
 

Julia L. Wright

My love of Nature and being outdoors has been part of my life as far back as I can remember. Creating art in many forms has been the basis of my life starting with theatre when I built sets and directed others in High School and college. I created fiber-based crafts ranging from macramé plant hangers or unique wall pieces that included found objects and woven elements. Feathers have always been part of my art creations. Mandala style feather wall hangings evolved into my creating feather masks. Creating those masks still is very fun! Creating earrings, hairclips and pendants was a natural progression to ways to create artful accessories using feathers and found objects.


I have taken thousands of photographs on my hikes and in many gardens. About six years ago I started using my realistic nature and other photos to illustrate my books and journals. And more recently, I began to use my realistic photographs to create different types of decks of cards for children and adults.


Three years ago, I “fell down a rabbit hole of creativity” and began using my Nature photos to create abstract, kaleidoscopic and mandala style images by taking a little part of a Nature photo and playing with it in PhotoShop. Currently these can only be seen online. Original versions of my photographic Nature-based images can be seen in this show and express my love of Nature.


When I am in my studio or sitting at my computer, I get totally lost in the process and my imagination can run pretty wild thinking about how to take the images I captured and create something totally unique and fun or hone in a specific element found in a photograph, such as water. It uplifts my spirit to honor the beauty of the amazing places I get to hike and glorify Nature in various artful ways.


Working in my feather studio or on a computer or taking photos on my hikes always has my creative juices flowing. I am constantly looking for some new way to use the materials at hand to create a bit of awe and wonder when someone sees the finished art.


Nature is my most powerful inspiration. When hiking or passing a beautiful garden, I often stop to take in the amazingly beautiful natural creations that surround me. A driftwood stump or a rock formation or a bit of moss can be as enticing to my eye as a beautiful wildflower. The reflection of a mountain or rock formation or clouds in water can stop me in my tracks to look deeper into that fleeting image. Each one makes my heart sing and my spirit soar with joy when I take the time to really look at the beauty others pass by each day without noticing it.


The normal concept of a photograph is a translation or transformation of a scene onto a two-dimensional surface, and most photographers leave it at that. Back on my computer, I become immersed in the process of creating something new and visionary from what I saw to create a unique view and transform that image into an artistic composition.


Some of my photos get used as they were taken, or maybe have sections highlighted. Other times, the process of transformation starts when I notice some interesting element in a section of a Nature photograph. Then I will start to transform that photograph by modifying a section of the image in such a way that it becomes something totally new and uniquely changed from its original shape.


The idea of using my Nature photos for card decks for children came from seeing too many instances of how little respect people have for the natural world and can only hope that by showing how beautiful and fragile wildflowers can be starting with a card game that might inspire more kids to get out and search for them and find other reasons to respect their natural surroundings.


My books have very practical advice and have come from my own experiences and based on creating a more sustainable art festival and natural solutions for health. And I recently updated my tree squirrel book and created a new one about ground squirrels in which I express my love of squirrels and teach children a bit about them.


My journals are based on specific themes, but they are not just “blank books”. They have practical advice in the introductions and some photographs related to the journal’s subject. Each one has prompts for a person to fill in the blanks relating to that prompt and can be used to write down their thoughts and have pages to sketch on or color designs in some of the books.


All art involves an artist taking up some media and transforming it into a new form or image that comes from their vision and imagination. I try to transform what most people see as ordinary into something extraordinary with a unique way of seeing the world.


Often when hiking, I, Julia, stop to take some time to look at a bit of Nature. Sometimes it is a part of a tree; maybe a root, a stump or a burl. Looking towards the ground I may spy a uniquely shaped mushroom or flower that catches my eye. Sometimes moss growing on a tree or on a rock causes me to stop to look closer at a section of it. So I take a photograph.


Reflections seen in water have always captured my imagination. I am often surprised when I look at a photograph on the computer to see a reflection of clouds or shoreline plants that create a lovely addition to the landscape that I was seeking to capture.


I have a great respect for the pristine waters that flow down from mountains in rivers and creeks and form ponds and lakes I discover along hiking trails. It saddens me to see trash collecting in them and have never understood why if someone can carry in a heavier item, when it is empty, they can’t carry it back out . . . I am always careful to be sure the area I visit is not burdened with any items I bring in and pack them out myself. I have the hope when people view photos expressing the beauty of Nature, the might become a bit more aware how they can take actions to keep where they travel as pristine as when they arrived.


My work can be found at:
Manitou Art Center in the First Amendment Gallery
www.commonwheel.com
http://julial-wright.pixels.com/
https://www.hierographicsbooksllc.com
My books are also on Amazon under the name of HieroGraphics Books.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/Fantafaces

kj becker

​kj becker is a manitou springs-based artists with a unique set of skills and over 22 years of combined experience in the areas where there are deficiencies in the social system for the expressive arts and how we connect with marginalized populations, such as, military veterans, sexual assault survivors, and differently-abled folks. kj has been an artist all her life and received a bfa in studio art and psychology from the university of illinois in 2007 after 5 years of active duty in the air force as a mental health technician. kj went on to manage the arts of life in chicago and then worked for the va doing expressive art peer support. today KJ is a full-time professional artist. 
 
for kj, artmaking is all about the process. having physical disabilities and ptsd from her time in the air force, kj has found the physicality of artmaking is most beneficial compared to traditional therapies and medications that are commonly prescribed. 
 
"adored" is an artistic expression of kj falling in love with her partner in the summer of 2018.  contrary to previous works that were more about the physicality of the art piece, rather than concept, kj is just starting to explore what her "story" is, as she has felt invisible for decades. 
  
www.kjbeckerart.com
www.instagram.com/kjbeckerart
 
current residency at art111, the manitou art center, library 21c, and a solo show in april 2019 at goatpatch brewery
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kj becker

Liz Selene

​As with all life-changing shifts, I did not come to art gracefully or willingly.  I received a channeled message in Jan. 2014 that I would be used as a conduit to create paintings that contained energetic messages designed to benefit humanity's evolution and that these messages would be embedded into the paint.  The messages themselves would draw the people to them that needed those frequencies.  My instruction was to "hold the brush and wait."  I experienced tremendous discomfort and frustration in this process.  It was 18 months before anything started to happen, before I felt any "click" while moving color on canvas or wood.  I disliked almost everything I painted during this time.  The one thing that made a difference, and that kept me squarely in the instruction, holding the brush while seemingly nothing occurred, was an earlier experience with receiving an internal intuitive message that also made no sense and was in direct opposition to my lifestyle, yet brought forth an outcome for me that consisted of success and happiness beyond my wildest dreams.  At some time early on in this extremely stuttery, cranky-producing painting process, some dragon shapes started to appear in the paint that I had not created myself.  They insisted on being seen and on being painted.  They are in charge of this energetic process and bring joy to these paintings and to me. 
 
The painting "Transformation:  The Fire/Water Dance" is a channel or portal for balance.  During the floods after the Waldo Canyon fire, I often thought about how what we perceive as an extreme negative event might just be the exact thing that brings about perfect balance.  The dance of fire and water in our particular geography is ancient and, I believe, directly impacts our consciousness, even if we are unaware of these effects.  Our fiery moments tend to consume us.  Our watery moments bring forth more fluidity in our moment to moment living.  We are integral to our landscapes and our landscapes continuously offer us their blessings, even when they come disguised as catastrophe. 
 
The dragons and I are eternally grateful for all opportunities to express, fulfill, and serve as conduits for any who are drawn to the energetic gifts of the galactic light art paintings.  
 
Paintings can be viewed at http://www.galacticlightart.com and at Movement Arts Community Studio, 525 E Fountain Blvd, Ste. 150, Co Spgs:  http://www.movementartscs.com.
 
 
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Liz Selene

Lorraine Capps

​Like many people, I had to wait until I retired to begin exploring my artistic abilities. Luckily I was able to retire early, and after experimenting with many media, including clay, mixed media, alcohol ink, jewelry, etc., I found my true passion in fused glass. I enjoy experimenting, and particularly enjoy creating 3-D pieces in the kiln. This requires a number of firings at varying temperatures, all taking between 9-20 hours, with 4 or 5 hours of cool-down time. My inspiration comes from nature, including both the mountains and the sea, having lived near the beach in Florida for 12 years.  I have been working in fused glass for 14 years, I have three kilns, and have taken over every inch of available space in my house and garage for my studio! I’m looking forward to adding a fourth, larger kiln to my collection so that I can create taller and larger pieces.
 
Creating art is the most important thing I do. It makes me feel like I am contributing something of value, and it brings me much happiness, both in the process of creating and in the end result.
 
As stated above, the sea is a huge source of inspiration. All of the colors found at the sea shore are my favorites, and the beautiful colors of art glass lend themselves perfectly to this theme. I try capture the whimsy and movement of the sea, so I can remind people of how they feel when they are on the shore and in the water.
 
My work can be found on my Facebook page, LoLo’s Paloozas (www.facebook.com/LoLosPaloozas/), and is currently sold in the Strictly Guffey Gallery in Guffey, Colorado.  I exhibit at many other venues in the Colorado Springs area including the MAC, the Modbo, Cottonwood Center for the Arts, and others.

Pamela Deramus

These works represent a technique I discovered quite on accident over a year ago but have only more recently started to create actual pieces. I use a variety of surface material and then combine water and tissue paper to create texture and color. I control the color and design for any piece. They are then finished using a high gloss urethane. The water adds a fluid and abstract nature to the works that changes the color, light and perspective for the viewer.
 
I grew up in an artistic family and have always been drawn to creating, designing and working with color and pigments. My father was an interior designer and I learned much of the foundation of my knowledge in textiles and design from him when I was growing up. I later attended Denver University where I studied Interior Design and the Instituto Allende in Mexico where I studied the fine arts and sculpture. As an adult I studied French Interior Design and French Culinary Arts in Paris.
 
I have lived in the Cascade area now for over 35 years permanently. These last 5 years I have enjoyed studying and experimenting with many different mediums, creating my own, directly from plant-based pigment. I photograph natural color from food, flowers and birds. And study light. The only element that creates color. I cook. And eat. And enjoy life, from a different perspective these days. And always creating. And designing.
 
You can see more of my design work by visiting my website at: DeramusDesigns.houzz.com     linkedin.com

Rhonda Van Pelt

​I grew up in an artistic family: my dad worked in wood and my mom painted. I earned my bachelor’s degree in art (painting emphasis) in 1980 at the University of Southern Colorado, where I studied with Lew Tilley, Robert Wands, Ed Sajbel and Orlin Helgoe. I’ve been a working artist ever since and have combined that with my love of writing to work as a graphic designer and as a journalist with various publications.
 
For me, a day without being creative is a wasted day. I am excited and inspired by nature, other artists’ work and simply walking down a street and being observant.
 
I love the patterns I see in nature. I manipulated photos I took at Monument Valley Park to make them abstract and then, for the first time, had my photos printed on metal. I think it’s especially appropriate and effective for this subject matter.
 
I mostly show at the Manitou Art Center and Academy Art & Frame Co., but in March, I will also have a solo exhibit in Colorado Springs City Hall. Also see: rhondashouseofcreativity.shutterfly.com.
 

Ron Koehn

​As a child I was always making stuff with no concern about whether or not it was art. I simply enjoyed it. Born and raised in central California, I attended Fresno State College (BA Degree and General Secondary Teaching Credential), followed by graduate work at the University of California at Berkeley (MA Degree with Specialty in painting). Further studies were undertaken at the University of California at Los Angeles, the California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, and overseas at the International Summer Academy of Fine Arts in Salzburg, Austria.
 
Before moving to Colorado Springs in 1995, I spent 29 years as an art teacher with the Department of Defense Dependents Schools in Germany and Belgium. Extensive travel, including photo safaris to East Africa and scuba diving trips to the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Hawaii have been rich sources of inspiration for my art, which has appeared in local, national, and international shows.
 
Here in Colorado, I was a studio artist at the Manitou Art Center for 4 years, a member of the Commonwheel Artists Co-op for 10 years, and taught ceramics part-time for 12 years at Pikes Peak Community College. Now I enjoy working in my own studio at home.
 
Art, in whatever form it might take, is something that I must do, and I’ll keep doing it as long as I’m able.
 
Fifteen of the most exciting years of my life were spent as a scuba diver, exploring the undersea world in such faraway places as the Mediterranean, The Caribbean, and the Red Sea, as well as the Indian Ocean and the Hawaiian Pacific. It was like entering another world of coral reefs teeming with life beneath the surface of the water, and with an underwater camera was able to capture some of it on film.
 
Now that I no longer dive, I can relive those fabulous adventures by scanning a few of the many slides I’ve collected. Each has a story to tell. These old photos can be reworked and improved by enlarging, cropping, repositioning, and enhancing in various ways. The possibilities are endless. My goal is that these pictures have artistic value and are more than just snapshots. For me, a clay artist, this is an exciting new creative adventure into another medium that I’m happy to share with you, the viewer. I hope you enjoy these pictures.
 
My ceramic work and photos can be seen by appointment at my home studio in Colorado Springs. I can be contacted by phone at 719/592-0984 or online at koehnart75@yahoo.com. Also, I have a few ceramic pieces in Commonwheel’s online store at www.commonwheel.com.

Amy Short

​I recently moved from Delaware to Colorado Springs to pursue my photography career. I got my first DSLR camera when I was 18 and have loved taking photos since. My junior year of college I officially declared my major as photography and dove in head first. Landscape, nature, and wildlife photography have always been my "jam" as I like to say. I have been taking small steps to further my career since moving to Colorado and I could not be more excited to see what the future holds. 
 
To me, making art means I get to show the world the way I see and feel it. One of my favorite things about photography is that no one else sees the world exactly like I do or feels exactly what I felt in the moment that I create a photograph. It is fulfilling and profound to create something that makes you happy no matter how simple, or complex, it may be. 
 
Being from Delaware I grew up surrounded by water - ponds, lakes, the bay, and the ocean. It has been a common subject of my photography since I first started out 8 years ago. There is a huge draw to water for me, whether its capturing a reflection on a still lake, or the rushing waters of a river. 
 
Website: www.amyshortphoto.com
Instagram: @ amyshortphoto
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyshortphoto
Gallery: Colorado Creative Co-Op in Old Colorado City

Susan Marion

I've been drawing and painting as long as I can remember! I was the "artistic" kid in my family, even in elementary school. I majored in graphic design in college and worked in that field for 20 years. Although I took some painting classes in college, I'm mostly self-taught. Throughout my teens and adult years, even when working full time as a commercial art, I continued to paint - always in watercolors. I started showing and selling my work in local and regional art festivals about 15 years ago. I feel that my artwork enjoyed a significant "growth spurt" in quantity and quality a few years ago when I was able to devote more time to painting.
 
To me, making art is one way that I interpret the world that I experience, and one way that I "archive" an experience in a tangible form. Art is a recording of my experience and an invitation for the viewer to share that experience.
 
I was inspired to start painting water scenes because, frankly, it was a challenge, and I like to take on painting "challenges" especially when others comment "oh, that's SO hard to paint!". I'm especially drawn to interpret and portray local water scenes in my paintings, because water is so precious and so scarce here. I painted the 'Blue Mesa Reservoir" scenes from photos I took there on a cold, very windy day. The rocks and whitecaps made me feel like I was at the ocean, and I tried to capture that feeling.
 
I belong to the Mountain Artists in Woodland Park, the Pikes Peak Watercolor Society, and the Western Colorado Watercolor Society. My work can be viewed on the Mountain Artists website, and in various exhibits that they sponsor in Woodland Park, including the Mountain Arts Festival. 

Tanya Walters

A 1998 graduate from the Colorado Institute of Art, I found my love for photography at an early age through the appreciation of geometric angles and in 2013 evolved to underwater photography...
 
Underwater photography should take you to another realm, a world that people can experience through my imagery. 
 
Challenged by the unpredictable element of water and weightless gravity, the outcome produces some of the most visually unique images - human forms unlike any found on land, free flowing of fabric, no worry hair and an unearthed world that is created.
I am Underwater Conceptual Photographer 
 
I have always had a love for the water from the sound to touch to even the smell. When I see underwater imagery there is a kind of purity and freedom. By putting people into an environment that human life is not generally pictured, a whole new world of imagination can be created. There is such natural beauty within the source of water. We are surrounded by water internally and externally and combining the two shows the strength that water is composed of and how it truly is a source of life. Water can be interpreted in many ways, it is up to the audience to decide what they see and how it moves them. I love the unpredictability of the outcome, both for myself, the subject and the audience.
 
https://www.facebook.com/visionart.photography
https://www.instagram.com/visionartphoto/
http://www.visionartphotography.com

Tina Rodholm

​I was motivated to take my photography further upon moving to this beautiful state of CO from the Midwest. I am a self-taught photographer and have been taking photos professionally for 7 years now but photographing as a non-professional for years & years prior. I work full time in corporate America but photography is my passion and the pastime in which I lose all sense of my surroundings and time. I can completely submerge myself into the act of photographing and love to spend a day doing nothing but shooting.
 
Making my art is an opportunity to capture, with a lens, & share the extreme beauty I see in this world, painted all around me. My hope is to inspire others in some way or to give others the chance to see something they may not ever have the opportunity to see with their own two eyes.
 
My inspiration for this show was the amazing beauty of Grand Exuma Island in the Bahamas. I saw water in colors I had never seen before and every where I turned were spectacular landscapes and amazing sea life.
 
You can find my work in the Commonwheel Co-op Gallery in Manitou Springs, in the Colorado Creative Co-op in Old Colorado City, and online at http://tinarodholm.zenfolio.com. You can also follow me on Instagram @hisbeautifulcanvas and on Facebook at "His Beautiful Canvas"

Richard Risley

​My art is in photography, from shooting to processing, framing and printing. I can't call it a career since I did that in the electronics field, and am retired. My quest is to take decent pictures and process them with an intent to capture the beauty or other fascination that was observed at the moment each was taken. I am highlighting the third dimension by distorting the print in various ways. I have been at this now for six years.
 
My great pleasure is in seeing the printed image “come to life” as I do my work. Sometimes the added value is amazing, other times perhaps marginal, but I am inspired after working with each one to continue making them “better”. It means a lot to me when others can see and enjoy my finished work.
 
I keep looking for opportunities to display my pictures and since I have some that fit into the category of “Water in the High Desert” there was no hesitation to enter. I was pleased to have two accepted. In fact, those two were a new design I just began, using a 5”X7” Shadow Box frame to display a couple of my 3-dimensional ideas. It allows me to use a distance gradient on the print (it is slanted back toward the rear of the picture) as well as a form of embossing the surface to further emphasize that phenomenon.
 
I have a lot of pictures on Fine Art America, but you won't see any 3-D on the website since that part of the process takes place on the print. richardrisely@pixels.com I have entered my work previously at Commonwheel for the “Autumn Colors” event, at Tri-Lakes Monochrome Photography gallery and at the Academy Art and Frame Gallery where one photo placed second and another got honorable mention in their Miniatures event.
 
To promote my work further, I have rented a hallway room at Cottonwood Center for the Arts for the months of March and May and will also have work on display at Boulder Street Gallery and Framing during the month of April, 2019. I registered my photo business as Richard's Photo Craft in Colorado, working in my home. Contact me at rrisely@aim.com.
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"Love and . . . " gallery art show

1/30/2018

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We set out to surround Valentines Day and the idea of “love” with a show that will encompass the whole month of February. We put out an open call to artists to submit images of their art that finished the phrase “Love and . . .” and had over a dozen artists respond. Their work is as varied as their answers to the 3 questions we recently posed to them:

1. What prompted the art you submitted for this gallery show? What was your inspiration?
 
2. How long have you been working with the type of art you submitted?
 
3. Tell us a little about yourself.
 
 
Cheryl Lafon
1. What prompted the art you submitted for this gallery show? What was your inspiration?
“Love and finding the perfect partner” is my painting of two sea otters from the Carmel area of California.
I also submitted a painting of owls. They are all babies and best friends. “Love and your best friends.” This was painted with a batik method of watercolor on rice paper. 
 
2. How long have you been working with the type of art you submitted? 10 years

3. Tell us a little about yourself. I'm a retired from 20 plus years in Newspaper Marketing in three newspapers all over the West. I started in sculpture but turned to watercolor. I love the medium. 
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Cheryl Lafon, painting
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Cheryl Lafon, painting
Susan Tormoen
1. The inspiration for my painting was a photo I took of my 5-year-old grandson and his best friends at his birthday party.
2. I have been doing pastels for many years but seldom do people.
3. I am an 82-year-old artist that works in pastel and oil primarily. I also do some tapestry weaving. 

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Susan Tormoen, painting

Molly Harris

1.  My inspiration was a long-term love interest and the understanding of myself and others that I have derived/am deriving from the experience.

2.  I have been making oil paintings on wood panels for about ten years, and I have been making drawings on antique music paper for about 7 years.
 
3.  I am a self-taught artist, native to Colorado Springs.  I love exploring different artistic styles and different mediums, which seem non-cohesive at the outset, but will eventually coalesce into a cohesive body of work.  Sometimes it takes years for the pieces to fit themselves into place. 
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Molly Harris

Abraham Eisenstein                    
hear we go, from out of the blue, as deep as a metaphorical mirror, hello to you
                         ...scents of inspiration, vintage two 'n' too!
paint with words, left to right, love of 'rite, soft and tight, 'rythmatic of script sculpture
                                      the big picture plus...
                          in the oddest place, in the artist place
tonight, turning 'rite up yore alley in left field, oceanic mountainous clouds
                                                         the roof of you're cellar
 
 
from thirty-four into approximately seventy... thirty six years in a wilderness of golden would essence 'n' petrified woulds,
pondering the deeper significance of invisible by day in sight of night...
 
 
...retired after 19 years at CMHS, 2005
taught seniors psychology, sociology, gradually becoming psychosocial movement of hearty heady
grew up in NYC, came thru Ellis Island at the age of one, 1949
MA applied Economics, QC ... finished doctorate course work at SUNY at Stony Brook in theoretical Economics
hitched from London to Jerusalem, nine weeks
receiving teaching assistantships at both institutions
ten years of in tense karate training, 3 national team kata awards, junior instructor
invited to train in Japan, JKA for a summer
Columbia University for graduate work, a year of Sports Psychology, NLP
taught at NY Institute of Technology, Queensboro CC, George Washington HS (math)
Colorado ...
 
thank you, dream well
 
 
Suzi Reaves
Suzi’s work is described as “Love and Health and Beauty”
1.  I was prompted to enter this gallery show because I create porcelain essential oil necklaces, which celebrate the heart and love.  They are worn with love of self because they have a purpose.   The necklaces are infused with thieves oil to promote good health, well-being and self-care. The necklaces are given with love to show affection for the recipient.  They are beautiful and have the bonus of keeping the wearer feeling well.  Whether giving the essential oil necklace as a gift or gifting it to yourself, you are showing love and joy.  
 
2.  I have been a ceramic artist since my first pottery class in 1973.  Clay hooked me and I won’t let go.  It is a sensuous media and brings me joy to work with it. I create my pieces by hand, fire it in a kiln then decorate each piece, making each ceramic creation a work of love.  
 
3.  I studied ceramics the first time I went to college in the 70’s.  I had a minor degree in art and have always worked in it.  I married, had a family and needed something to give us health insurance and to work towards a retirement so I joined the U.S. Navy in 1990.  Fast forward twenty-three years and I had earned a retirement.  My family was grown and I was a disabled veteran, though not enough to keep me from doing art.  I took my G.I. Bill and went back to college, this time earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in ceramics.  I have been happily creating with clay since.  
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Suzi Reaves
Julia Wright
1.    My Love of Nature and seeing how disrespectful people have become when caring for the environment in recent years, the quote about who this planet belongs to has been posted around my home for a long time. The photograph I took of a man holding his child pointing off into the distance/future sitting on the grass became something to play with digitally and place them in a more nature filled setting. This image then seemed to be the perfect illustration for that quote.
 
The other images were inspired by Shawn Gallaway's song "I Choose Love" that I have listened to for many years. The idea of the choice between Love or Fear; or Peace and War; Sunshine or a Storm; Laughter or Tears . . . the answer to all those questions is "I Choose Love." The pairing of dragonflies or black swans or a Squirrel with its hand on its heart inside a heart illustrates that choice for me.
 
2.   I have been taking photos on my hikes or in gardens for most of my adult life. Started using them in wall art about 2 years ago and in my books for about 5 years. Sometimes I use them as they naturally appear, other times I play with them more in Photoshop to give them a more abstract or painted look.
 
3.   I have had a respect and love of the natural world all of my life and became involved in the arts when I worked behind the scenes in theater in High School. In College I started working with fibers and going to art festivals and selling in galleries. I am mostly known for my feather masks and jewelry pieces. I began writing books about 5 years ago and they needed illustrations. Most of them are illustrated with my photographs, some I do find elsewhere. The photographic digital art was an easy progression to another level of art to play in with my Nature photos. Using them as they appear naturally works sometimes, but I "fell down a rabbit hole of creativity" and began to manipulate them in a graphic program in ways to add interest. Some feel like you are looking through a kaleidoscope or at a mandala, others are purely abstractions and all invite you to look deeper to find fantastic forms or creatures within each picture. The ones in this show have some manipulation to gain the effect of the focus creature offering love in some form or another to each other or the viewer.
 
 
 
Shirley Paterson
For me, the theme “Love and…” immediately brought to mind—fabric!  Fabric presents endless possibilities of color, pattern, texture, as well as cultural connections and family, personal and emotional ties.  Fabric communicates, even without words. 
 
I have been sewing for nearly 50 years, beginning with outdoor equipment kits and homemaking items.  I am a past president of Piecing Partners Quilt Guild in Colorado Springs, and have participated in a number of shows through the years.  I gravitate toward simple fabric combinations, in hopes of taking advantage of the materials to create something both pleasing and useful.
 
I grew up in Boulder, and graduated from Colorado College (1972).   I worked in a clinical psychology office for many years, while my husband owned a construction company. We have two grown daughters and two grandsons, and have lived on Colorado Springs’ west side for over four decades.   
 
I find the activity of designing and creating sewn items to be stimulating and calming at the same time – also addictive!  Thanks for the opportunity to share some of my creations with you.
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Shirley Paterson
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Ben Bires
1. Being new to Colorado, I wanted to show my gratitude for our surrounding scenery here at the Front Range. Taking walks through these open spaces in nature is my inspiration. I fell in love with the contrast between the bold colors of the red rocks clashing against Colorado’s blue skies.
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Ben Bires
​2. Within the last year, I have found an appreciation for the versatility of acrylics.
 
I began painting with oils almost a decade ago and for many years, I used watercolors to capture my traveling experiences into landscape paintings. This approach involves a gel medium retarder that slows down the drying process allowing me to treat parts of the painting like oils.
 
3. I grew up in a small town in Western Pennsylvania and spent most of my childhood exploring the outdoors. I attended Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and graduated with a BFA in 2014. Three years prior, while in college, a collaborative camping trip with the Art and Geology Departments changed everything for me when we drove across the country in a van to South Dakota’s Badlands National Park. Traveling out West a total of four times since visiting the Badlands convinced me to move before my roots became too deep. During the summer of 2016, halfway in my twenties, I left home with my other half, Liv, and moved to Colorado Springs. After the first month of getting settled, we found our first dog to adopt, Fin. They make my life a whole lot better. I enjoy listening to music with a good beer and great company. You might see me at the dog park or at a local pub.
 
 
 
Dalton Martin
1.  The photographs that I entered were part of the final project in the Photography II course at CSU-Pueblo.  Students were required to enter 3 juried exhibitions, so when I found the information on "Love and....", I thought it would be a great way to show individual work.  Art is all around us, but we pass by it every day without noticing because we don't stop, look up, look around, or take the time to appreciate the details and creations around us.
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Dalton Martin
​2.  This is my second semester college course in photography, so I am new to this art form.
 
3.  I was born in San Diego, California, and moved to Pueblo in 2000 at the age of five.  I live with my parents and two dogs, and family is very important to me.  I have always enjoyed drawing and have the dream to work in the animation industry.  I am pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from CSU-Pueblo and enjoy learning and experiencing the various art forms.  My favorite art form is drawing, but I have also enjoyed the courses in painting and ceramics.  I also enjoy movies, Gundam models, Anime, and Marvel comics.
 
 
 
 
Laura Miller Maddox
Love and Reflection (digital photography on canvas)
 
My are is a meditation presented within a 2-dimensional space. Each digital image I create embodies a unique energy guided through the camera’s lens. “Love and Reflection” evokes memories of a lived past transcending time and space. I believe such memories become treasures of the heart.
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Laura Miller Maddox
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Marica Hefti is our June Artist of the Month.

5/31/2017

2 Comments

 
By Leti Wesolowski, contributor

Figurative sculptor, painter, and art therapist, Marica Hefti is a Swiss-born artist who fell in love with art at a very young age. She studied at the College of Fine Arts in Zurich, Switzerland where she was educated under constructivists Max Bill and Hans Fischli in the Bauhaus tradition of Kandinsky’s school of “Form und Farbe.” Her post graduate studies and teaching took her from Switzerland to Italy, Liechtenstein, the Bahamas and California, settling down in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1991.

While she produced landscapes in many medias, her one true love and passion has been, and still is, creating art based on the human figure, exploring a variety of media such as Conté crayon, watercolor, bronze and terracotta sculptures. Her work has been shown in galleries and museums all over Europe and the United States and she has received numerous awards. Currently, the best place to purchase Marica’s hand-built terracotta sculptures and paintings is Commonwheel Artist's Co-op in Manitou Springs, CO.
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How did you get interested in art?
Already at the age of five I considered myself to be a “serious artist.” At that time I did not accept critique willingly. Through the years I learned, however, that it was less important what people thought of my art but how it affected them.

What does making art mean to you?
Art is my life. Without it I would be just a hollow shell.
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Where do you get inspiration?
Inspiration can come from anywhere: a word spoken, a song, a beautiful landscape or human being I see, something I read or experience.
 
You are a figurative sculptor and also a painter. Which media do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy all art forms equally. I will pick the medium according to which one would illustrate best what I want to express. When I feel playful I may paint one of my colorful “Western Romance” pictures. I would paint a landscape when I marvel at the beauty surrounding me, or I may turn to sculpture to express my spiritual needs or just to revel in the grace of the human form.
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Tell us about your creative process. Walk us through the steps to create one of your works.
Throughout my long life as an artist I have used many medias. In my younger years I used more conventional ones, such as oil painting for landscapes and portraits or bronze for sculpture. For several years I was enthralled by stone lithography. To this day I use Conté crayon when working with live models or ink-pen for very quick sketches on the road.
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In my forties I discovered the immediacy and lightheartedness of watercolor, which lead to reverse glass painting and in turn to the liquid watercolors I now employ for my “Western Romance” pictures.
 
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"After the Rain" by Marica Hefti
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I never liked using sticky modeling clay to model the originals for my bronzes. A modeling compound called DAS came to my rescue. It adheres marvelously to metal or any other support and once dried, it can be chiseled, carved and sanded. But…that was then.
 
About twenty years ago and inspired by the work of Hungarian sculptor Kovacs Margit, the terracotta sculpture of the Toltecs, as well as the famous Chinese Warriors, I turned to terracotta and so far I haven’t looked back. I love the dry tactility of red sculpting clay, the challenge of sculpting the human figure without the crutch of metal supports, the mystery and anticipation of the firing as well as the fact that each piece is an original.
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​What is the visual effect or emotion you look for capturing in your compositions?
Visual effects are secondary to my creative process. I strive to recreate what moves me: express the love I feel for the subject; in other words, to share the wonder I feel.
 
Is there an artist that you admire or follow?
During my formative years I leaned heavily on the philosophies of Wassily Kandinsky, Pablo Picasso, Henry Matisse and Auguste Rodin. Now I pretty much choose my own way, my own challenges.
 
What is your proudest achievement?
I do count the 30 feet long by 8 feet tall “Three Sisters” steel and terracotta sculpture at the Saint Francis Medical Center as the most important piece of my life. Not only because of the sheer size of it or the fact that it may well be the only freestanding terracotta relief in existence; it means much more to me than that. The selfless love and charity of the Sisters of Saint Francis (founders of Saint Francis Hospital) and the Sisters of Charity (founders of Penrose) that it documents, opened up my eyes and heart to my own spiritual needs. It led me to the Benedictine Sisters of Benet Hill who are helping me to fill a void that I didn’t even know existed.
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Marica's larger-than-life outdoor terracotta and steel relief “Three Sisters” panels are displayed at the entrance of the new Saint Francis Medical Center in Colorado Springs. To learn more about each panel, her visions and concepts, visit her blog at http://earthandfire-marica.blogspot.com/2008
 
What is/are your favorite(s) piece(s) for sale at Commonwheel? And why?
At Commonwheel I am primarily showing my figurative terracotta sculpture (and my Saint and Angels wall pieces). I hand-build those with outdoor-quality clay which is fired at high temperatures for maximum vitrification and durability. Each is a one-of-a-kind original piece of art. All pieces are signed and dated. As a secondary medium I also show some reverse-glass paintings. I love all my pieces. They all have stories and I hope that each will have special meaning to whoever acquires one.
 
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What’s next for you?
The future’s not mine to see! I hope for many more years of the challenge, the exploration and the wonder of art.
 
Visit the shop and receive 10% off all Marica’s creations through the whole month of June.
You can find her work online also at our online shop. Follow her on Pinterest (pinterest.com/MaricaHefti) or Facebook (facebook.com/MaricaHefti). She also wrote a book available in Amazon (Marica-Hefti/e/B00JXRM5IQ)

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Susan Fowler, "Flowers from My Garden"

4/18/2017

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​by Leti Wesolowski, contributor
 
“Flowers from My Garden”
Artist’s Reception: Friday, April 21, 5-8 pm
April 21—May 15

 
“Flowers from My Garden” is a joint show between Susan Fowler and Isaac Takakuwa opening April 21st in our Creekside Gallery. Our Artists’ Reception is from 5 to 8pm. This show will be on display and for sale through May 15th.
 
Susan Fowler is primarily a landscape artist inspired by the beautiful Colorado scenery, as well as daily observations of animals in nature, still life or florals. For “Flowers from My Garden” she is showing portraits of flowers blooming in her garden.
 
Isaac Takakuwa is a pottery artist exploring new ceramic shapes with his trademark floral motifs. Isaac seeks to convey the beauty of the form through imagery and color. Isaac is a Commonwheel Co-op member.
 
             ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
A little bit about our guest artist, Susan Fowler.
 

Susan Fowler is an impressionist oil painter who moved to Colorado Springs in 2008 looking for a place to get inspired and fulfill her lifelong dream of painting full-time. She learned drawing, composition and design in the traditional manner at Briarcliff College and Florida International University, both in FL. However, at the time she had to choose between work and career, so she was not able to devote herself to what she felt was her true calling. Now many decades later, Susan is totally dedicated to her art and she is focused on visually recording subjects of Nature that are important to her. “It is a way to see deeply what captures my interest” she explains.
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Single Poppy
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Pink Rose
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Single Pointsetta
Her style has been evolving into one of mindful movement—every stroke of color strives to maximize form without distorting clarity, being broad and confident. She uses light as an instrument of rebirth. “I work to create a vivid image rich in light energy, but with enough quiet space to gently seduce the viewer,” says Susan, who admits she feels a “presence” when putting paint to canvas. Each painting is the result of a “spiritual” dialog.
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Lily Pond
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Blossums
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Red Carnation
To describe her personal creative process, she explains: “Something will strike me, I will photograph it, I will draw it, and if inspired to take it further, it will become a painting. I paint only from life, or from what I have observed. There is a consistency in my palette. No matter what (oil) paints I use, the look is very consistent.”
 
At “Flowers from My Garden” art enthusiasts and visitors alike will be able to contemplate each of Susan’s meaningful artwork. “Every painting is special since it represents a point in my life. My favorite painting is the one I am currently working on. It’s what I am feeling at the time. I would say each one is an experience, a notation in a diary.”
 
Susan is primarily a landscape artist, having a vast collection of paintings inspired by the Rocky Mountains, prairies, high plains, and wildlife. However, she is also inspired by daily observations which have her exploring still life, animals in nature, and florals. For this show, Susan was particularly inspired last Spring by her spectacular garden, so she did multiple paintings to savor the experience and with that came the theme.
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The Pond
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A view of Susan's easel and studio
Susan’s body of work is a “visual legacy” of her personal life experiences. To paraphrase her:
 
“An artist sees, feels and experiences
all sorts of things. When something touches
the heart, an artist feels compelled to record, interpret and give personal power to that observation.
Only then is the soul quieted.”
 
Susan’s floral collections will be showing at Commonwheel Artist Co-op Creekside gallery in Manitou Springs, CO until May 15th. To find more of her work visit her website at www.susanfowlerartist.com or follow her on Facebook (Western Light Studio) and Instagram ( @SusanFowlerFineArt).
 
 
Did you enjoy this post? Leave as a comment and let us know! We’d love to hear from you!
Want more local art news delivered to your inbox? Sign up for Commonwheel newsletter here.
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Front Range Open Studios Preview Event

7/12/2016

1 Comment

 
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Richard Pankratz
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Nancy Bonig
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Kathleen Krucoff
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Dan Rieple
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Jodie Bliss
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Frank and Ginny Maiolo
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Dennis and Kay Liggett
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Terre Christensen
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Milo Scott
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BarbaraZiek
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Claudia Dimidik
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John Haines--Clay N Colors
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Walt Moore--Clay N Colors
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Carolanne Ryan--Clay N Colors
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Dusty Severn--Clay N Colors
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Liz Kettle
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Mary Lou Pape
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Jo Gaston
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Wilhemina Steenbergen
​by Juanita Canzoneri

The Front Range Open Studios Tour is the only studio tour in the state where every location is the actual working studio of the artist present. They put great emphasis on educating the public as to where and how fine art and craft are made. They offer more to the public than just finished product. There is a greater variety of art forms presented which allows the public to gain a better understanding of why art costs what it does.
 
 
Around the mid 90’s Richard Pankratz realized that the work he wanted to create was very sculptural. He also realized that bronze was the medium he wanted to work in.
 
Art is a communication medium. Richard strives to connect with and develop relationships with people through this common love of art. He loves sculpting because it gives him the opportunity to think great thoughts and contemplate universal solutions. The consistent theme running through his current work can be summarized in the choice we have to love one another and realize the inherent sameness and interconnectedness between us.
 
Richard recently completed public art installations for Edmond, OK and Loveland, CO. Recent Corporate collectors include Kaiser Permanente in Colorado Springs, CO and Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln, NB.
 
 
Nancy Bonig designs and creates most of her kiln-worked glass with the hope that it will bring as much pleasure to the person who buys is, as they did to her. The design process starts with the finished piece in mind—it’s final size, shape, bend and function. Nancy draw on the influences of the Art Deco period, with its sleek, geometric forms and stylized imagery in decoration and design, and experiments with line, color, texture and balance to achieve a pleasing whole.
 
“I try to learn something new with each project, whether it be design, color combinations or firing techniques. Working with glass, I have learned to respect the material, be awed by its transformation with heat, and to wonder at future possibilities.”
 
 
Kathleen Krucoff works in ferrous and non-ferrous metals. She states, “I have never been one to color inside the lines, so why should my work be constrained by any limits? Being creative is a way of life for me. My father was a landscaper and taught me to love and respect nature. I think that is why you will find an organic quality in the pieces I create.”
 
Kathleen’s work is comprised of silver, gold, natural stones and gemstones
 
 
Dan Rieple’s interest in wood and woodworking began with his father, a brick and stonemason, whose hobby was furniture making. An industrial arts program at age 14 turned the embers into a flame. In addition to being self-taught, Dan earned an Industrial Arts degree from CSU. After a short stint of teaching, followed by a longer stint in architectural woodwork, he is at last designing and building functional works of art. He loves turning material that is normally rejected into something admired and functional.
 
“I like seeing the pleased expression when someone feels the soft curves and surfaces on a piece that I've made,” Dan says. “Besides being visually pleasing and perhaps even provocative, art furniture should stir a person to a point where the desire to touch is irresistible.”
 
 
Jodie Bliss has been working in metal for over 13 years. In those years she evolved from jewelry fabrication into larger steel sculpture fabrication and eventually into blacksmithing. The major theme that interests Jodie is that of “Identity Construction”. Throughout the last decade Jodie has produced several series of masks, portraits and abstracts all relating back to the exploration of the power that lies behind the way each of us creates and evolves our personal character.
 
Jodie has been participating in Front Range Open Studios since she first arrived in Monument in 2012. From the inception of the relationship it has been a fantastic weekend for introducing the community to what goes on in Bliss Studio & Gallery in Monument. In addition to the coordination of the tour weekend itself, Nancy Bonig, the owner of Front Range Open Studios, has done so much to promote the arts and artists in the community and to bring us all together as a group.
 
 
Frank and Ginny Maiolo
As a jewelry artist and metalsmith Frank Maiolo’s goal is to create works that are an extension of his inner self and emotions and that resonate with others. Jewelry is intimate and needs to satisfy the sense of touch with pleasing textures and delight the eye with elegant lines, shapes and color. Frank’s materials choose how they are going to be shaped and though it is not the most efficient method, he typically designs as he works. The tactile nature of the metals, gems and materials can take on a life of their own and help guide him through the creative process.
 
Collecting shells, sea glass, rocks and myriad other treasures consumed Ginny Maiolo as a child. Reflection on these collections and the organic nature of the items expose a primitive quality to the jewelry she creates. Her designs incorporate the organic diversity of the patterns of earth and sky. In 2007 the artist emerged from the depths of her being and cried out for freedom. She was 58 when she began painting. In 2012 she started working with metal and found the tactile expression that metalsmithing provides. The personal connection she finds with the materials is a sensory encounter that is unequaled. The metals are raw and malleable and waiting to tell a story. Her color palate is currently reds, yellows, oranges and the blues and greens of sea glass.
 
 
Tactile and personal, the tools, art, and wooden artifacts made by Dennis and Kay Liggett are meant to be touched and used in daily life.
 
‘Notions’ is an old retail category for exactly these kinds of beautiful things.
 
In 2016, the Liggetts will feature traditional turned accessories, tools, bowls, and fruit with inventive surface design, as well as new interpretations and combinations of traditional quilting techniques. Dennis and Kay both work on the wood lathe. Kay also uses fabrics, paints, brush, and sewing machines in her work.
 
 
Starting as a hobbyist in 1994, Terre Christensen turned a pastime into a wholesale business in 2009. She honed her skills experimenting with different methods of fabrication and firing. Each piece is intended to be a unique work of art, not a mass produced duplicate of what someone else might offer.
 
Terre is appealed by the unpredictability of Raku; the colors, metallic qualities, and textures which transform a simple piece into something distinctive and interesting. Her pieces are carefully crafted with attention to details and composition. In the final step, control is surrendered to the kiln, glazes, and air temps which render one-of-a-kind treasures.
 
 
Milo Scott enjoys creating 3-D art. There is something about being able to hold a piece, turning it, watching the light reflect off the surfaces that simply can’t be duplicated by other mediums. Wood is one of her favorite substances to work with. Even after a tree has stopped being a live plant, it continues to show a “life”. It is an amazing thing to see the worst looking part of a tree, twisted and knotted, worked into a vessel that contains marbleized holographic reflections simply by removing layers to expose the beauty that was always just under the surface. Wood is an item that can be fashioned into nearly any shape, but, sometimes; the wood wins. Many of the pieces Milo creates utilize “leftovers” from other wood industries. Laminations and segmenting methods combine different species of wood which equates to painting in 3-D with Mother Nature’s finest works.
 
 
Barbara Ziek and her husband raise and live with alpacas. He shears them once a year and Barbara sorts and grade the fleeces. “What do you DO with them,” people invariably ask when they meet the alpacas. You use their fiber!
 
So, what is her art? She felts the alpacas’ fleece. Felt is a very hands-on, fluid (quite literally fluid—felt is made with lots of water) and somewhat mysterious form of fiber art. She rolls, stretches, compresses, pounds, and throws the wet mass of fiber to make felt. Along the way, each fleece shows its individuality. “I particularly enjoy exploring texture, form and color through the fluidity and physicality of making felt. Because of the unique qualities of every fleece and the way it responds to felt making processes, my initial plan for a piece of art never ends quite as I planned. Usually it’s better.”
 
 
Claudia Dimidik’s aspirations for art began in grade school when she took an award for a watercolor painting. This then led to a focus on the arts where she offered to create and design logos, brochures and murals. Trained and credentialed with a B. A. in Art Education, her desire to learn more than one style of art led her earn an M.A. in Fine Arts degree.
 
After teaching eight years of darkroom photography she took on the challenge of implementing a computer art course for the district and then shared this knowledge by teaching community education courses. However, her desire for paint and sculpture would not subside. As an active member in the arts community, Claudia has taken numerous awards and recognition for her photographs, digital art, prints and paintings.
 
Claudia is known for her landscapes, which she describes as influenced by Ansel Adams. Her collages and montages are also in color and influenced by Jerry Ueslmann. Claudia admits that color is important and although she continues to work with themes and childhood memories her current series are batiks on rice paper as she is excited to see spring flowers!
 
 
Clay N Colors
John Haines is currently pursuing a lifelong interest in creation of art, in both two and three-dimensions. His present focus is art pottery (mainly wheel thrown, working in traditional firing and Raku) and watercolor painting.
 
In recent years John has developed his skills in watercolor and ceramics (pottery). For the latter, he has studied under local potters Jeremiah Houck and Jamie Howard.
 
John’s artistic view can best be described as collaborative, where the medium and the artist each bring specific elements to the production of the final work. “I respect this relationship in all my artistic endeavors and particularly in working with clay, where the characteristics of the clay and the processes to bring it to final form work together with the inspiration and guidance of the artist to produce the final object. This relationship also speaks directly to my current interest in the watercolor medium.”
 
Walt Moore is a potter who creates wheel-thrown art. He makes tableware for household use and artistic pieces for decoration and aesthetic enjoyment. He uses gas, electric and Raku kilns and hopes to try wood firing soon.  He is constantly expanding his line of pottery and learning new techniques and styles. He expresses himself in throwing, altering, carving, and glazing his forms. Nature is his muse and many of his pieces exemplify this interest in the world around us.
 
Carolanne Ryan: “Being a native of Colorado has given me inspiration to capture the abundant beauty and serenity that surrounds me. Expressing these qualities through artistic media has been my focus and passion since I was a child. Currently, working with clay has enabled and challenged me to openly display my emotions, experience, awareness and spirit. I am dedicated to applying these principles in my art and my life, always striving to enrich and share the profound beauty of life, as I see it!”
 
Dusty Severn had an adventure-filled life before embarking on her exploration of the arts. As a military wife, she followed her husband, Ted, around the world raising five children. A firm believer in building teams, she enjoys being a part of the co-op Clay N Colors. As a potter, she loves the tactile experience, creating shapes, and the surprise of opening up the kiln after a glaze firing! Most of all, because of her husband's generosity, she is thankful to be able to donate any funds that are generated to charity. This newfound passion has opened her mind to explore other media in art.
 
Amy Taube is the newest member of the Clay N Colors co-op. We were unable to obtain her bio or images before publishing this blog post.
 
 
Liz Kettle tells tales that are personal as well as those that speak of relationship, humanity and the earth. She chose the untraditional fine art palette of fabric and stitch because I believe they connect us and draw us closer in a way that cannot be achieved with traditional art materials alone. She uses a variety of techniques drawing from the deep wells of quilting, mixed media collage and paint to tell and support each unique story.
 
Liz is passionate about teaching and has co-authored two books; Fabric Embellishing: the Basics and Beyond and Threads: the Basics and Beyond. I am also solo author of First Time Beading on Fabric. I have articles published in Quilter’s Home, Quilting Arts, Quilting Arts In Stitches, and Cloth Paper Scissors Studios. She has also appeared in the PBS show Quilting Arts TV.
 
 
Award winning artist Mary Lou Pape paints animals in oils or pastels with a close up view of their world. From wildlife to domestic animals, she paints from personal experience, striving to capture each animal’s unique characteristics with feeling and the dignity they deserve.
 
“I hope my paintings reflect the respect I have for the animals that share our world. I am drawn to close up portraits of the animals and their environment and love dramatic light and shadow. I paint from my own references and personal experience, striving to portray each one with dignity and feeling.”
 
 
Jo Gaston enjoys painting the intricate shapes and glowing colors of vegetables and flowers. With these subjects, her approach is essentially representational, though she does take artistic freedoms and often relies on close-up views to emphasize abstract undertones.
 
“As a watercolor artist, I am also intrigued by the bold shapes and rich colors of saddles, harnesses, and other tack. My work has a strong representational basis—a well-designed saddle or stirrup is itself an artist’s dream of form, texture, and subtle color gradations. So my stirrups generally look like stirrups, and you won’t mistake a saddle horn for a concha in one of my paintings. But I make full use of my artistic freedom to combine, simplify, emphasize, and see with the mind’s eye to make the artistic experience of these subjects as rich as possible. My approach often leads viewers to find powerful abstract qualities in what are finally realistic images.”
 
Jo works in transparent watercolor, layering washes when necessary to create colors that are as deep, dramatic, and rich as the colors she finds in the tooled leather and other natural surfaces.
 
“There is so much beauty in this world, and I just enjoy trying to capture that in my paintings whether it’s flowers, vegetables or Western tack. It’s all fun to paint.”
 
 
For Wilhemina Steenbergen, shaping in hand-made paper developed from earlier free-form pottery work. In the color finish she will often try to recreate the metallic effects of Raku glazing. Her fascination with texture also finds an outlet in the pieces she creates. Found objects or fabrics are sometimes included, but she do not define my work as collages, rather as sculptures. Themes and shapes are derived from nature, the seasons and her daily experiences.
 
“In this display I try to demonstrate the capabilities of forming in hand-made paper. I can create shapes and textures more freely than in clay and the finish with acrylic paint gives the pieces the unique look of metal or stone.”
 

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    Juanita Canzoneri
    Co-op Member 2004-2019, mosaic artist, Marketing Manager/Shop Coordinator, former co-op treasurer and president.

    Julia L. Wright
    Co-op member since 1976, feather artist, digital photography artist, Festival Coordinator and blog contributor.

    Leti Wesolowski
    Co-op member since 2014, jeweler designer, gallery curator and blog contributor.

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