Fine Arts Center Members for 3 years
Why did you become a member of the Fine Arts Center?
As a military family, we move around a lot. We found that one of the best ways to feel at home in a new community is to do what we enjoy. In so doing, we meet people with similar interests.
When did your interest in the arts begin?
Gary: My interest in the Arts began as a means to understand other cultures.
Renee: In college I took several “Intro to ____” classes where I learned the foundations of art, theater, and music. The first really big show I saw was The Phantom of the Opera in San Francisco. I was hooked! When we were stationed in Washington, D.C., we took advantage of being around so many art galleries and theater productions. We saw some fabulous shows!
What has been one of your favorite plays, classes or exhibits at the Fine Arts Center and why?
Gary: I liked many of the plays but so far my favorite is Anna in the Tropics. The sets and actors transported me to warm and steamy Florida.
Renee: One of my favorite exhibits was the Chiho Aoshima videos that were here in Spring 2018. They were mesmerizing! I loved all the colors and watching the images morph into new creatures. We were stationed in Japan before moving to Colorado Springs so I was able to visit museums there. To me, those videos captured both old and new messages from Japanese culture.
What is your favorite work of art at the FAC?
From our first visit, we both loved the Tactile Gallery. Feeling the texture and temperature of the sculptures adds to the pieces’ characters. Some are cold. Some are warm. Some are bumpy. Some are smooth. It taught me to think about how a piece of art which I cannot touch might feel — especially its temperature, and what that says about the piece’s creation.
What else do you like to do for fun in Colorado Springs?
We enjoy hiking. There are so many beautiful trails nearby!