With an abundance of natural beauty, Colorado is unquestionably a destination for artistic inspiration and for outdoor adventures. The Southwestern state is filled with natural wonders such as the Rocky Mountains, Pueblo dwellings, several national forests and a diverse landscape that includes snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers and desert scenery. Such splendor has culminated in lively arts centers, events, museums and galleries in the Western genre. From the vibrant capital of Denver, to the smaller winter destinations of Vail and Aspen, there’s no shortage of art activities for the Western collector.
Wintery Pikes Peak. © Visit Denver. Photo by Chris Gilbert.
Starting with the American Museum of Western Art in Denver, visitors will see a large collection of historic and contemporary Western work, ranging from 19th century to present day. The museum is home to the popular Anschutz Collection, consisting of over 600 drawings, paintings and sculptures, illustrating the history of the American West. Denver is also home to one of the largest art museums in the country, the Denver Art Museum. They represent a variety of cultures in 12 different collections, including a collection known as the Petrie Institute of Western American Art. The collection contains paintings, sculpture and works on paper dating from the early 1800s to the present.
The Hamilton Building at the Denver Art Museum. © Denver Art Museum.
The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale is an event and gallery exhibition that happens every January in Denver, alongside the National Western Stock Show that runs for 16 days. The work ranges from a mix of styles and mediums by renowned and new-to- the-scene artists. While the Stock Show has canceled this year’s events due to Covid-19, The Coors ventured online to showcase their Western works.
Downtown Denver. © Visit Denver. Photo by Marica Ward
Many might also enjoy Vail, a small ski destination 90 minutes from Denver, that holds their annual Vail Arts Festival. Towards the south, Colorado Springs hosts a First Friday Artwalk from 5 to 8 p.m., along Colorado avenue, known as the Old Colorado City, laden with 19th-century brick buildings full of galleries, restaurants and shops.
Visitors can also find popular Western-themed galleries including Claggett/Rey Gallery in Edwards, Broadmoor Galleries in Colorado Springs and Ann Korologos Gallery in Basalt. Sorrel Sky Gallery in Durango has a great mix of contemporary and traditional Western art, often described as “a fresh Western approach.” The galleries all represent some of the finest Western artists, with different styles, themes and media, that also includes jewelry and pottery.
Continue reading through this section to get additional information on events and art happenings, along with a look at talented artists such as Don Woodard, Sherry Cobb, Sandy Graves, Eugene J. Diodato Jr., and shops like Enver from Denver Fine Rugs & Restoration and Lone Tree Antiques & Fine Art.
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Claggett/Rey Gallery
216 Main Street, Suite C-100, Edwards, CO 81652
(970) 476-9350, www.claggettrey.com
Claggett/Rey Gallery has enjoyed being a committed part of the art scene in Vail Valley since 1989, when they opened the doors in Vail Village. In June of 2020, they relocated their gallery to Edwards, Colorado, next to Starbucks in the Riverwalk shopping area—just 15 minutes down the road from Vail.
Claggett/Rey Gallery staff and interior. Photo courtesy of Brent Bingham.
“This move brings us to the energized heart of the valley where we are surrounded by fabulous restaurants, retail, an arts center and bookstore with convenient parking,” the gallery says. “Our new space is curated with high ceilings and a warm, spacious, modern environment. We invite you to visit us as we forge into the decades ahead as part of the evolving nationwide gallery scene.”
Claggett/Rey Gallery, Christ and the Devil, oil, 60 x 60”, by Daniel Sprick.The gallery represents some of the finest men and women creators alive today and each has spent decades with their chosen medium. The spark which makes them unique in the world of fine art is why the gallery exists. They love to educate and inspire their visitors with the many treasures in the gallery.
Claggett/Rey Gallery, Old Man of the Sage, bronze, 16 x 18 x 10”, by Tim Shinabarger.
Today’s art collector is faced with many challenges, from monumental art installations to estate planning and the topic of the day—‘Heirlooms without an Heir.’ The gallery adds, “We are a source of comfort and expertise; we assist in the challenges, excitement and exploration of possibilities, all while helping our clients enjoy the process.”
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Broadmoor Galleries
1 Lake Circle, Colorado Springs,
CO 80906, (719) 577-5744
www.broadmoorgalleries.com
Close to the entrance of the Broadmoor Hotel, Broadmoor Galleries represents both emerging and established artists in a variety of mediums and styles. They maintain phenomenal customer service and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Broadmoor Galleries, Taking Flight, oil on canvas, 63 x 29”, by Thomas Blackshear II.
Broadmoor Galleries represents such artists as Bonnie Marris. Her treatment of wildlife is unparalleled, from powerfully intense images of bison and bears, to intimate depictions of foxes and wolves, she elicits an emotional connection with the viewer. As in her piece Autumn Red, one is awestruck by nature’s force while moved by the harmony within the animal world. She has won the Artists Choice Award, the Patrons Choice Award and the Bob Kuhn Wild Award for her exceptional work at the Autry Museum’s Masters of the American West.
Broadmoor Galleries, Autumn Red, oil on canvas, 30 x 40”, by Bonnie Marris.
Colorado-based artist and illustrator Thomas Blackshear II, continues to ascend! Formerly a Hallmark greeting card artist, Blackshear was quickly recognized in commercial illustration, producing commemorative plates, collectible figurines and over 30 stamps for the USPS. His Western work, which he refers to as “Western Nouveau” challenges traditional Western art ascetics by incorporating modern, 20th century art elements often ignored in the genre.
Broadmoor Galleries, End of October, oil on linen, 22 x 28”, by Robert Peters.
Broadmoor also represents the talents of Robert Peters. He began his career as an illustrator, known for his U.S. News & World Report magazine covers, which gave him the solid foundation needed once he pursued a career in fine art. His love of the West and the Western landscape acts as his inspiration for his authentic and natural pieces that have steadily earned him accolades and recognition as one of America’s great landscape painters. He has since become a perennial participant in museum exhibitions such as the Prix de West, Quest for the West, Masters of the American West, Night of Artists and the West Select.
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Sorrel Sky Gallery
828 Main Avenue, Durango, CO 81301
(970) 247-3555, info@sorrelsky.com
www.sorrelsky.com
The paintings of Colorado artists Tom Lockhart, Elsa Sroka and Edward Aldrich, with Sorrel Sky Gallery, may seem like they wouldn’t be part of the same collection, yet they have a cohesive energy that you can see and feel.
Sorrel Sky Gallery, Companionship, oil on board, 46 x 40", by Edward Aldrich.
Each clearly conveys the joy they find in their chosen subject matter, and this energy complements the other. From sweeping Western landscapes to intriguing encounters with cows to sophisticated wildlife portraits, they capture what brings them joy, which connects us, the viewer, to their work.
Sorrel Sky Gallery, North Clear Creek Falls Runoff, oil on board, 30 x 40", by Tom Lockhart.
“Those connections that we feel are the best way to stay true to yourself when acquiring art,” says Sorrel Sky. “Whether adding art to an existing collection or starting a new one, stay true to yourself, and look for works that speak to you personally.”
Sorrel Sky Gallery, The Beach, oil on board, 16 x 20”, by Elsa Sroka.
When a piece of art sparks something inside of you—joy, excitement, anticipation, imagination—Sorrel Sky challenges you to listen to those feelings. Instead of thinking, “How will this match what I already have?” Think, “How will this energy add to my collection?” Those personal insights will help you create an environment that gives you lasting joy and happiness.
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Ann Korologos Gallery
211 Midland Avenue, Basalt, CO 81621
(970) 927-9668, www.korologosgallery.com
Ann Korologos Gallery, located 20 minutes from Aspen in the historic town of Basalt, is the premier source for contemporary Western art. More than 30 nationally acclaimed painters, sculptors, printmakers, mixed-media artists and photographers at Ann Korologos Gallery tell the stories of the American West in their own unique language and style. Clients and artists alike share a passion for the beauty of the magnificent landscapes and timeless frontier culture.
Moments of Light on view at Ann Korologos Gallery. Pictured: Dinah Worman, Peter Campbell, Sabrina Stiles and Michael Wisner.
“Contemporary artists offer not only their work, but their artistic evolution,” shares long-time collector and gallery owner Ann Korologos, who purchased the gallery in 2008. “Watching the process of an artist continuously sprouting and unveiling intent, technique and subject is an opportunity to connect on a deeper level. As the artists learn, we are privileged to learn alongside them, a journey we joyfully share with clients. Every visit, in person or virtually, is an opportunity to learn something new.”
Ann Korologos Gallery, Off Trail, oil on linen, 34 x 46", by Andy Taylor.
In reflection of the last year, Korologos shares the quote from Twyla Tharp, “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” And with a home as beautiful as the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, local and regional artists such as Andy Taylor, Dan Young, Terry Gardner, Michael Wisner, Leon Loughridge and Sean Wallis, have no shortage of inspiration. Nationally and internationally acclaimed artists include Sarah Lamb, Tomas Lasansky, Dinah Worman, Lloyd Schermer, Nathan Solano, Angus Wilson, Donna Howell-Sickles, and more.
Ann Korologos Gallery, Heading to Basecamp, oil on panel, 16 x 24", by Dan Young.
On view through March 6 is Moments of Light, exploring the power of light to create or alter a mood or perception, and featuring Kate Starling, Sabrina Stiles, Peter Campbell, and Deborah Paris. Observations in the Clearing will open on March 11, 2021, and will highlight the work of Ewoud de Groot, Mike Weber, Paula Schuette Kraemer, and Sherrie York as they examine the character and connection of wild animals and mankind.
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Eugene J. Diodato Jr.
John W. Pyson – Representative
(719) 338-8853
Pyson50@yahoo.com
Eugene (Gene) J. Diodato Jr. (1935-2013) loved nature and painted it daily, not as a vocation, but rather as a path of self-fulfillment. Diodato explained, “My paintings are a journal of my experiences and expressions of my seeing and being. They are done with love and that is their only reason for being.”
Eugene J. Diodato Jr., Mt. Shavano from Adobe Hills West of Salida, Colorado, oil on paper mounted on board, 15½ x 10½”
The last 35 years of his life were spent painting outdoors in the Upper Arkansas River Valley of Central Colorado near Salida. His work embodies realism and luminism. Tiny brush strokes reveal complex combinations of colors always governed by Diodato’s adherence to the truth of what nature revealed. He distinguished between “looking” and “seeing.”
Eugene J. Diodato Jr., Celebrating a Glorious Day in the High Country, Hunt Peak from Poncha Loop Rd., Poncha Pass, Colorado, oil on paper mounted on board, 16 x 12”
“Looking,” said Diodato, “clouds the truth with pre-concluded assumptions and biases. “Seeing, on the other hand, requires discipline to comprehend what the viewed scene is actually revealing.” Once Diodato found the “seeing” in his view, he began mixing pigments to replicate what nature was offering. For him, creating colors accurately was a celebration and a complement to the composition.
Eugene J. Diodato Jr., Mt Shavano and Jones Peak from Poncha Hot Springs Rd., Poncha Springs, Colorado, watercolor, 12 x 9”
Diodato’s work embodies truth and beauty interwoven into one harmonious concept, composed from the heart. His paintings reflect a complex understanding of the relationship between light and color.
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Sandy Graves
Steamboat Springs, CO, (970) 846-0201
sandy@sandygravesart.com
www.sandygravesart.com
“My stylized sculpture is about energy and movement,” explains artist Sandy Graves. “Each piece starts with an emotion, the place where the being and its essence cross. The play between negative and positive space allows room for the viewer’s imagination to roam while accenting the parts that define the subject. Exaggeration of proportion coupled with open negative space creates a feeling of movement in bronze, which is traditionally a heavy and stagnate medium. It is my hope that viewers feel the emotion that I felt as I create each piece.”
Sandy Graves, The Prince, bronze, ed. of 50, 33 x 14 x 9"
Sandy Graves, Lola, bronze, 10 x 4 x 16"
Graves has been sculpting wildlife in recent years because of her connection with the outdoors. Magnificent creatures, big and small, are such powerful characters in her life. “I love the energy that flows through each one and I love translating that energy into form,” Graves furthers. “Lola is one of four Magpies that I recently finished and they are so dear to me. They are energetic, smart, obnoxious and beautiful birds. They fly from tree to tree with their recent fledglings squawking loudly as I work in the garden—constant companions.”
Sandy Graves, Kindred, bronze, ed. of 50, 24 x 11 x 6"
Graves advice when purchasing artwork, is to always buy what you love. “If you can’t quit thinking about a piece, buy it,” she says. “The emotional fulfillment that you had when you first fell in love with the artwork will only grow with time. Having your living space filled with objects that you love fills your days with inspiration.”
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Don Woodard ARTWORKS
12712 Lowell Boulevard
Broomfield, CO 80020, (303) 430-1986
don@donwoodard.com
www.donwoodard.com
Artist Don Woodard feels fortunate to be able to use the skills developed early in his career creating sandblasted wood signs, hand painting commercial signs as well as painting wall murals, to now be able to create fine art in wood.
“Creating three-dimensional artwork is my passion,” Woodard explains. “All of my artwork is first hand carved in select woods, then finished with paints, stains and occasionally I add other substrates such as leather, string, sand, twigs and weeds to create a true mixed media work of art. I have chosen to take a non-traditional method to create works of art.”
Don Woodard, Rocky Mountain Barn, mixed media and linden wood, 20 x 30”
Woodard’s subject matter includes scenes of the West, landscapes, wildlife, floral, as well as images of Hawaii. “Many of the Western scenes represent events and activities that I have experienced leading pack-horse trips into the Rocky Mountain Wilderness for over 35 years,” he says. “I have also been fortunate to see a great number of wildlife and view many beautiful areas in order to create my landscape artworks.”
Don Woodard, Swimming Hole, mixed media and linden wood, 17½ x 28”
Woodard’s pieces are sealed, helping them to last for generations. In addition, he is happy to create commissioned work, which makes for ideal family heirlooms and special gifts.
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Enver from Denver Fine Rugs & Restoration
3440 South Brady Court, Sheridan, CO 80110
(720) 242-8513, enversfinerugs@gmail.com
Enver Kasum, owner of Enver from Denver Fine Rugs & Restoration, was born in Bosnia and came to the United States in 1998. “I’ve been involved in the cleaning, repair and restoration of Oriental rugs, Navajo weavings and Southwestern textiles for more than 22 years,” Kasum explains.
Various examples of Navajo weavings after wash: Pictorial Classic Chiefs Blanket, Sandpainting’s and Eye Dazzler Germantown.
Enver from Denver works with museums, galleries and private collectors across the country, but they also work on rugs and textiles of every age and quality. “The satisfaction for me,” Kasum furthers, “comes from offering our best efforts to every customer and every project. I have a deep respect for the culture, artistry and history of rugs, and I love knowing that through our work, we are helping to improve people’s lives by preserving the beauty of their treasured rugs and textiles.”
The shop offers complete care of your treasure including cleaning, restoring and mothproofing.
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Lone Tree Antiques & Fine Art
115-117 First Street, Eaton, CO 80615
(970) 301-0248, www.lonetreeantiques.com
Lone Tree Antiques and Fine Art represents notable Colorado artists from the Denver, Colorado Springs and Estes Park areas, focusing mostly on pre-1960 works. “There were a surprising number of talented fine artists who came to Colorado starting post-Civil War and painted our mountain landscape,” says owner Daniel L. Geary. “There were many painters and print makers who followed the modernism movement here in the mid-20th century as well.”
Lone Tree Antiques & Fine Art, Estes View, watercolor, 5 x 8”, by Charles Partridge Adams (1858-1942).
Lone Tree Antiques & Fine Art, Misty Moonlight – Estes Park, etching, 7 x 9½”, by George Elbert Burr (1859-1939).
If you want to get started collecting Colorado art, Geary suggests “focusing first and foremost on finding a reputable dealer to work with who specializes in the material that you want to learn about. Spend some time at the Denver Art Museum—their collection features world-class examples of Colorado art from the 19th century frontier era, up through the current contemporary period. Looking at a variety of pieces will help you identify what you want to focus on for your personal collection, whether that is a certain artist, era or artistic style.”
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Sherry Cobb
(970) 261-3396, sherry@sherrysstudio.com
www.sherryspaintedhorsestudio.com
Since she was old enough to hold a pencil, artist Sherry Cobb’s inspiration has been animals. She grew up on a ranch and farm in western Colorado, so horses, cows and dogs were her first subjects. “I enjoy painting the things I know so well,” Cobb adds. “There are so many special moments that happen in the day-to-day operations of ranching and working with livestock, that the opportunity to capture special moments are never-ending subjects for my paintings.”
Sherry Cobb, Waiting on the Boss, oil on linen panel, 12 x 9”
Cobb’s piece Waiting on the Boss, is inspired by an afternoon of riding in the fall. “We had just come back to camp,” Cobb says. “The horses, dogs and I were waiting on my dad to come back from the cabin. The sun on the gold aspen leaves were so bright it looked like a sea of gold. It's moments like this that I try to capture in my paintings. The peaceful warmth of a beautiful fall day in high country of Colorado, working with the animals we love and the moments of ranching that I so cherish.”
In 2019, Cobb won the Cowgirl Up! show director’s choice award for new artist and the patrons’ choice award. This year, find her work at America the Beautiful, the 51st annual National Exhibition and Sale at The Museum of Western Art, in Kerrville, Texas, put on by Women Artists of the West. She’ll also be at Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of The West Exhibition and Sale, at Desert Caballeros Western Museum, Wickenburg, Arizona, and America’s Horse in Art Show and Sale at American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum Amarillo, Texas.
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