Open Studio at the CAC

Are you an artist looking for another artist to talk to?
Do you get lonely working by yourself in your studio?
Do you aspire to become an artist?

As a part of its ongoing arts education programs, the Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park offers an open forum for learning and welcomes artists to create, share and learn in its Open Studio series at the CAC Fine Art Gallery. Launched in January 2010 as part of the Arts Council’s 20th anniversary celebration, the informal sessions were created as an effort to encourage artists at any level to improve their technique regardless of medium or artistic skill level.

Generally aimed at those at the beginner to intermediate level, it is an opportunity for individuals to receive guidance or problem solve a piece of art in progress, without having to go through the expense or time commitment found in regular workshops.

“The term “Open Studio” generically refers to organized tours of artists personal studios.

Open Studio tours are common across the United States” explains CAC director Lynda Vogel. “They are usually accompanied with a map to the studio locations. Open Studio at the CAC gives a twist to the generic concept by inviting artists to work together in a common studio situation which is open to the public”.

The weekly morning series is facilitated by arts council volunteers KC Benson and Kelly Kotary.

KC Benson
Benson is well known watercolorist with 30 years experience. Benson has taught several professional workshops in Colorado and New Mexico during his career as a painter.
Benson is also a national member of Taos National Watercolor Society.

Kelly Kotary
Kotary is an up and coming oil painter, who over the past years has been receiving acclaim for her work. Recent accolades include Best of Show at the Art Center’s Lines Into Shapes 2009 and Best of Show and Southwest Art Magazine awards at the Colorado Mountain Plein Air Festival in Buena Vista, in Fall 2010. Both artists participated in Plein Air Rockies 2010.
Open Studio at the CAC by day has been well received, and to accommodate the needs of those who work or are not available during daytime hours, the Cultural Arts Council is launching a second phase of the series, “Open Studio After Hours” the first Wednesday of the month in April and May. The After Hours version will follow the same concept at the daytime series, only artists are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice to enjoy in the evening. KC Benson and others will be on hand at the evening sessions.

The Cultural Arts Council of Estes Park’s facility and gallery is located at 423 W. Elkhorn Ave. in West Park Center. Operating as a 501 (c)(3) non-profit for over twenty years, its mission enhances the accessibility of visual and performing arts for persons of all ages.

To learn more about the programs of the Cultural Arts Council, Open Studio or special events call 970-586-9203 or e-mail info@estesarts.com.