Day 19 - African Tortoises

 On Tuesday morning of this week, there was a terrible fire at the Gator Farm in Mosca, Co...just on the other side of the Sangres from us.  It is a well-known and well-frequented animal sanctuary for reptiles.  Not all of the creatures who call that place home were killed, but SOME were.  I spent the day feeling so sad and helpless about it all...so I painted some of the residents there.  We visited the farm a couple of years ago, my grandkids, daughter and I.  It was so fun and full of interesting and amazing creatures!  These giant tortoises were walking the hallway path between exhibit areas..like two big GUIDES.  RIP critters of Gatorville.  ( if you Google "Gator Farm in Mosca, Co" you can read about it and see the news videos.  There is also a GoFundMe page for the loss.)

"African Tortoises"

pastel and colored pencil

about 8" x 10"

Kitty Wallis sanded pastel paper

 

Spring Cleaning

 Each year the Sangres Art Guild's local art space, 3rd Street Gallery, in Westcliffe has a seasonal schedule.  Our first show is in May and our last show ends in December. The building that the gallery is situated in, is currently for sale.  So this year, we just don't know what will happen to the space which is currently being graciously donated.  Each year we have a 'spring clean' day and today was the day.  From top to bottom the two gallery floors were made 'spic and span' by the crew in the following photo. It was a work of love and care for our space.  Photo - here it is - do you know which one I am? The first show, the 2023 Calendar Show, will have it's official artist's reception on May 7th.  

  

Add a Gallery

I have waited almost a year to get involved in the LOCAL art scene.  Having many issues on our house and property - I (we) have taken some time to address those things where I was needed as help and backup for many a project.  That has slowed enough now,  that I decided it was time to take a step forward.  It's part of what brought me here (back to Colorado, where I have spent most of my life - to Westcliffe), the ART SCENE.  

There are numerous ART opportunities and places in a town of about 500...being a hot tourist and getaway area in the warm months.  I chose "3rd Street Gallery" as my starting point and have joined the 'Sangres Art Guild' - I am only 15 minutes away.  My art is now hanging in the 'members' gallery on the second floor and I have entered three pieces in a month long show called "Wild Things" - right up MY ALLEY.  Show starts on the 26th of August.  Opening reception is September 1st, located at 59000 Highway 69 in Westcliffe, CO.  So excited!  The gallery is closed from Jan to May - as we all need some 'hunker down time' in the winter.  Many restaurants and shops close, as well.  A good production time in the studio - anyway - while wiling away the winter cold.  

There are artist 'painting get togethers' every Monday at the gallery, so you know where I will be on Mondays.  'Gallery sitting' will be on the agenda, as well.  I have my times already scheduled.  It is a perfectly and smoothly run business - no kinks - no hassle - just nice friendly people (of course, haven't met anyone that wasn't just super nice - here) - can't wait to be INVOLVED!  I now wonder, why I waited so long...but 'life' comes first, always. And I am elated beyond belief that I am back, living in a place that SUPPORTS the arts - I have new friends.

A Painting for Today

"Backroad to Ridgeway" - original oil painting on

9" x 12" Raymar canvasboard

This one was done from a photo provided by the instructor in my class. It is a road between Ouray and Ridgeway, Colorado. Although I haven't been there, I have been in places that were sooo similar. I love the Colorado Rockies! I am working on improving my landscape technique. This one worked out well for me. I think I finally understand the color theory for them.

This one will also be at a show in Beloit, Kansas at the Union Pacific Depot on Saturday.