Weekend in the West – June 24-25, 2016 – Evergreen, Colorado

This was one of the most fun assignments that I’ve given myself. Who can resist a weekend of Artists, Fine Art and Wine?

Evergreen Fine Art Gallery has been a part of the Colorado art community for twenty-five years. In that time, it has built a reputation for representing the region’s best artists. That list includes Kim English, Ramon Kelly, and many others, whose work you are probably familiar with. In addition to those well known names, though, the gallery also continues to support excellent emerging artists.

Six years ago, the gallery sponsored the first Weekend in the West.  The three day event begins with an invitational dinner, allowing collectors to get acquainted with the participating artists. The following evening is a fancy, public opening, with wine and finger foods in abundance. Most of the artists attend, so it’s a good time for a Vagabond to meet a few of them, and see their work close up. The final day is a “Quick Draw”, followed by a champagne brunch, and live auction. Proceeds from the auction go to a local charity. This year, it was Bootstraps, which provides funding assistance to help with the rising costs of college.

 

I’d never attended this show, so when my artist friend,  Stephanie Hartshorn, made me aware that she had work hanging there, I decided to go. Not too many years ago, I visited  Evergreen quite often. Then life got busy, and I stopped going as frequently. That’s something I intend to correct.

The gallery is a two story affair, with a large open area in the middle of the first floor, encircled by several smaller viewing areas, and a couple of separate rooms. The upper level consists of two viewing rooms, and a framing area.

When I arrived, it was still early and the staff was busy with last-minute tasks. It was a good time to browse around, so I took advantage. There’s something about being alone in a great gallery with dozens of masterful pieces of art. It’s calming, inspiring, and uplifting to me.

As the evening went on, I was able to chat with and photograph several of the artists. Most of those photos will be included in a slideshow, on YouTube.

I really like this photo of Jeff and Laura, because it kind of reflects the whole atmosphere of Weekend in the West. It’s a fun and relaxed way for artists, collectors, and other folks to share in the wonder of Art, while making a difference to people in the community.

It was a good evening, I think. There were plenty of red dots (signifying sold paintings), and wine, not to mention the marvelous artists who made themselves available.

Thanks to all of them, and the fabulous staff at Evergreen Fine Art Gallery.  You all made it a memorable evening, and I appreciate the opportunity to cover the event.

Don’t forget to check VagabondStew on YouTube for the Slideshow. There are lots more photos.

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