Why did you become a member of the Fine Arts Center?
I am a member to support art in the Colorado Springs area, and because the FAC is home to me. When I was in grade school I had my first piano recital in the Music Room. In high school and when I was home from college I would walk the rooms of art and the stress would leave. It was a very soothing place for me.
When did your interest in the arts begin?
They began by taking piano lessons at a young age and I still have that piano! I have taken lessons off and on over the years but I don’t like to practice. The fine arts: I took a painting lesson from my aunt, Etta Reed, who is a great western art oil painter. My mom always encouraged the arts. I helped with makeup in the high school and college stage plays.
What has been one of your favorite plays, classes or exhibits at the Fine Arts Center?
Bemis Art School is the best! I have taken wheel throwing pottery for several years, mostly from Jeremiah Houck. I have also taken print making and paper making. A few years ago I took a children book writing class and am so excited that I am about to publish my first children’s chapter book. I was in the Denver area for two years. You would think there would be a wheeling throwing class like Bemis in Denver, Boulder, or Loveland at my fingertips, but there wasn’t. Bemis was one of the four reasons I moved back to Colorado Springs.
What is your favorite work of art at the FAC?
My favorites are the small area in the galleries of Charles M. Russell paintings. The Renegade I especially like, as I grew up on a ranch and love that lifestyle. The horses, cattle and once in a while a coyote or bear would wander near and remind me of that painting. I understand his work of freedom and hard work…a sense of ah, life is good.
What else do you like to do for fun in Colorado Springs?
I love the local restaurants like Marigolds, La Baguette (they have the best french onion soup!), Wines of Colorado in Cascade, and the Tavern at the Broadmoor to name a few. First Friday Art Walk is so much fun. I love long walks with my dog Annie, being involved at my church Village Seven Presbyterian, which is another reason of the four why I moved back.