First Friday Artist's Reception

First Friday Frenzy! This summer, The Artists’ Gallery is partnering with other merchants up and down Cañon City’s Historic Main Street to generate a “First Friday Frenzy”! Our objective is to create a fun atmosphere to entice community members and visitors downtown on the first Fridays of June, July and August! The participating businesses are inviting artists, craftsmen, vendors, authors, and musicians to showcase their talents and wares, inside or in front of their shops. We invite you to start your “art walk” evening at The Artists’ Gallery, on First Friday, June 1st, as we are welcoming guests from 5 to 8 p.m. Our Featured Artists for June: Accomplished watercolor artist, Judy Weyenberg, recently participated in a painting workshop, whose instructor, Don Andrews, emphasizes a much looser style and harmonious colors. Judy explains, “The lessons were more about ‘interpreting’ than ‘recording’—that painting isn’t based on reporting reality, as much as expressing opinions about it”. “We impose our feelings on our subject, we become storytellers, rather than impersonal reporters; and that’s where all the fun is”! It has been both exciting and challenging for Judy to incorporate the new techniques into her own style, but she asserts, “I’m ready for more fun, and hope it shows in my new work!” Owner of Eagle’s Heart Designs, jewelry artist and business woman, Lin Ward, is also an internationally-known hairstylist and salon owner, residing in Westcliffe. As an art major in college, Lin learned the skillful use of color and balance; her mastery of color, texture and movement is evident in her jewelry designs. Lin’s exclusive creations are stunning statement pieces of wearable art! When not making jewelry, she loves traveling the country competing in NATRC competitive trail riding with her horse, "Hooch”. Jewelry artist and owner of Rockin’ L Designs, Linda Ouellette’s bold, striking jewelry truly captures the modern flair of today’s southwest. Owning and operating a large, upscale east coast hair salon for 20 years gave Linda the invaluable experience of working with color and design. Years ago, Linda and her husband ventured to Colorado to raise quarter horses on their ranch in Westcliffe! She fell in love with the west and translates that love into her jewelry designs and other creations. Linda laughs, "Who ever thought a crazy hairdresser from New York would be living out her cowgirl fantasy!" Join us to recognize these talented artists, while enjoying music and complimentary refreshments served by the artists themselves! Stroll up and down Historic Main Street for an evening of fun in support of our downtown businesses! Voted Fremont County’s Favorite Art Gallery, nearly 50 local artists are represented at The Artists' Gallery, offering quality original art and gift items! The gallery is located at 416 Main St., Cañon City and is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call (719)345-4070 or visit: www.facebook.com/TheArtistsGallery/.