DRIVE from TELLURIDE to DILLON, CO via Vail
Yesterday, A. Paul & I took our final ski runs of our trip. The day was beautiful and the snow was perfect. In the evening we listened to Elephant Revival, a neo acoustic group, perform live at the historic Sheriden Opera House.
This morning, we said our farewell to Telluride and headed northeast to Dillon, CO via Vail. The drive alternated between melting snow passes and fields thawing in the spring sun. We passed ranches, coal mines, wildlife grazing and rivers that were beginning to fill from snow melt, eventually our drive rose to 10,000 feet elevation afforded spectacular vistas. Boulders precariously lie along the roadside reminding us of the delicate balance of mankind and nature. The final drive onto I-70, led us through a maze of tunnels and passages carved through and around the Rocky Mountains before passing through Vail then onto Dillon for the night.
Tomorrow, we head to Nebraska, inching one day at a time home to Cape Cod. The next few days will be long driving days in an effort to reach MA by next weekend. I will continue to post photo images of the drive back but our art coverage will be limited as we come to the close of our Art Tour Across America. When we reach back home I will make one last post to provide closing photos and comments. Until then I leave you with an extensive slideshow of today's drive.
DRIVE from TELLURIDE to DILLON, CO
Monday, March 21, 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
Art in Telluride, CO
ART in TELLURIDE, CO
The morning brought a beautiful day to us with clear blue skies and a few white clouds hovering over Telluride. A. Paul & I started our morning off with a stroll along the river trail to the free mountain gondola which whisked us away to the Mountain Village at the base of Telluride's ski area. As the gondola ascended, it afforded wonderful vistas of the 14,000 feet elevation of San Juan Mountains and the canyon valley where the town of Telluride resides.
The San Juan Mountains, part of the Rocky Mountain range, boasts a complex tapestry of ski runs, which we hope to take advantage of tomorrow. These same mountains are the source of the founding of Telluride, when in the mid 1870s, the first gold and silver mines created the basis of the Sheridan Mining town, now known as Telluride. With the arrival of the train and electricity, the town continued to boom up until WWI and the Great Depression , which bankrupt many mining towns and left them to become ghost towns. Such was the fate of Telluride until 1970 when miner Billy Mahoney and Joe Zoline combined forces to cash in on Telluride's other natural resource--snow, creating the first ski access in Telluride and establishing a basis for its survival. http://www.telluride-co.gov/index.aspx?page=33page=33
During our visit at the school, Rachel provided a wealth of information on the art scene occuring in Telluride and about the role the School fulfills in the community. The Ah Haa School was founded in 1990 by bookmaker and teacher Daniel Tucker as a means for fostering creativity that exists in every individual, regardless of age. To this end the Ah Haa School offers a host of workshops in a wide range of mediums including ceramics, film, welding, painting, jewelry, and photography, as well as adult and youth programs. Housed in a historic train depot, the top level of the school offers two gallery exhibit areas for featured artists' works, with the lower level designated for workshops, a ceramic room, and soon to be printmaking shop.
As its executive director, Rachel has created innovative and creative means for collaborating with the community, bringing residents and visitors alike into the Ah Haa family fold through auctions, social & technological networking, special events and course offerings. Rachel's energy and enthusiasm for the School and towards the interconnectedness of the community and its arts is infectious to say the least. Thank you, Rachel, for your time and passion. We hope to see you in Ptown soon.
If you are planning a visit to the Telluride area, the Aa Haa School for the Arts is a definite must see. You can also visit the Aa Haa Scool for the Arts website for information on upcoming exhibits, events, and classes at http://www.aahaa.org/ and at the following YouTube links http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM4fScMFaZM
and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTg_ae0j008
Upon Rachel's recommendations, A. Paul & I set out to visit the Stronghouse Studios & Gallery where we met Program Director Sasha Cucciniello, who also directs the Squidshow Theatre http://www.squidshow.org/, and Executive Director Kate Jones of TCAH , Telluride Council for the Arts & Humanities. http://telluridearts.org/
TCAH, like Aa Haa, is a community based arts organization developed to foster the arts in and around the Telluride area. Its mission is to assist artists and visual & performing groups discover venues and support for their growth and sustainability within and outside the community. The Stronghouse Studios & Gallery was created and funded by the TCAH to offer work spaces for artists, regardless the medium. Housed in an historic dry good storage along the historic Rio Grande train tracks, the Stronghouse offers a music room, a dark room and several art work spaces. Occupancy is based upon availability with the majority of top floor artists as established tenants. The lower level offers a variety of spaces to artists as they beccome available.
Thank you, Sasha & Kate, for your hospitality.
Around the corner from the Stronghouse are two addtional galleries that we visited. The Schilling Studio Gallery owned/operated by artist Amy Schilling who offers cutting edge contemporary works in addition to her encaustic artwork and handmade jewelry. http://schillingstudiogallery.com/ The neighboring Lustre Gallery offers historic jewelry, art glass works, and a large collection of reversed painted ceiling chandeliers http://www.lustregallery.com/contact.html
As the day began to wane, we headed off to Smugglers for a bite to eat before heading back to our lodging along the river. Tomorrow, weather permitting, we hope to race down a few of Telluride's slopes then in the evening take in a music venue held in the historic 1913 Sheridan Opera House. http://www.sheridanoperahouse.com/ Sunday morning we head out to Vail, CO.
DAY IN TELLURIDE
With the quaint historic Victorian mining town at its base, where supposedly Presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan orated his "Cross of Gold" speech, and newly cut ski runs on the surrounding mountains, Telluride has grown to become one of America's favorite playgrounds for year round activities. It is home to some of the most attended festivals in the country-- the Bluegrass Festival, Blues & Brews Festival, Wine, Festival, Yoga Festival, Jazz Festival , Film and Arts Festivals--the list goes on. www.telluride.com/telluride/festivals
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| Aa Haa School for the Arts |
When A. Paul & my feet touched ground again in town, we set out to explore the many arts venues housed in historic buildings throughout Telluride. First on our list was the Ah Haa School for the Arts where we met up with Executive Director Rachel Loomis-Lee. Immediately we felt at home when Rachel not only knew about Provincetown but shared that she has substantial memories of her visit to "Ptown" as it is where she became engaged.
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| Aa Haa Director Rachel Loomis-Lee & Kerry in front of artwork by Rachel |
During our visit at the school, Rachel provided a wealth of information on the art scene occuring in Telluride and about the role the School fulfills in the community. The Ah Haa School was founded in 1990 by bookmaker and teacher Daniel Tucker as a means for fostering creativity that exists in every individual, regardless of age. To this end the Ah Haa School offers a host of workshops in a wide range of mediums including ceramics, film, welding, painting, jewelry, and photography, as well as adult and youth programs. Housed in a historic train depot, the top level of the school offers two gallery exhibit areas for featured artists' works, with the lower level designated for workshops, a ceramic room, and soon to be printmaking shop.
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| Ceramist Nichole Waichunas at Ah Haa School |
If you are planning a visit to the Telluride area, the Aa Haa School for the Arts is a definite must see. You can also visit the Aa Haa Scool for the Arts website for information on upcoming exhibits, events, and classes at http://www.aahaa.org/ and at the following YouTube links http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM4fScMFaZM
and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTg_ae0j008
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| L-R: Sasha Cuccicinello, Kerry, & Kate Jones |
TCAH, like Aa Haa, is a community based arts organization developed to foster the arts in and around the Telluride area. Its mission is to assist artists and visual & performing groups discover venues and support for their growth and sustainability within and outside the community. The Stronghouse Studios & Gallery was created and funded by the TCAH to offer work spaces for artists, regardless the medium. Housed in an historic dry good storage along the historic Rio Grande train tracks, the Stronghouse offers a music room, a dark room and several art work spaces. Occupancy is based upon availability with the majority of top floor artists as established tenants. The lower level offers a variety of spaces to artists as they beccome available.
Thank you, Sasha & Kate, for your hospitality.
Around the corner from the Stronghouse are two addtional galleries that we visited. The Schilling Studio Gallery owned/operated by artist Amy Schilling who offers cutting edge contemporary works in addition to her encaustic artwork and handmade jewelry. http://schillingstudiogallery.com/ The neighboring Lustre Gallery offers historic jewelry, art glass works, and a large collection of reversed painted ceiling chandeliers http://www.lustregallery.com/contact.html
As the day began to wane, we headed off to Smugglers for a bite to eat before heading back to our lodging along the river. Tomorrow, weather permitting, we hope to race down a few of Telluride's slopes then in the evening take in a music venue held in the historic 1913 Sheridan Opera House. http://www.sheridanoperahouse.com/ Sunday morning we head out to Vail, CO.
DAY IN TELLURIDE
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Drive from Sandy, Utah to Telluride, Colorado
DRIVE from SANDY, UT to TELLURIDE, CO
As we reached Moab, Utah, we weaved our way through massive brillant red rock formations with snowy mountains as a backdrop. The lesser traveled two lane route into Colorado was harrowing at times but A. Paul expertly weaved the car through one ess curve after another, marked with signage never seen before on our travels.
Throughout the drive we witnessed the landscape and the wildlife it supports coming to life and enjoying the first fruits of spring. Our arrival to Telluride at dusk was greeted by the sight of a fox on its early evening hunt. Tomorrow, we explore the town and will assess the upcoming weather for any needed to changes in our driving itinerary.
DRIVE FROM UTAH TO COLORADO:
The 6+hour drive from Sandy, Utah to Telluride was exhilerating. We left the snow capped valley of Utah through Soldier Summit, where rock formations stood like soldiers along the road sides. Along the way we ventured through old mining towns and crossed a desert of dunes with ghost-like mountains.
As we reached Moab, Utah, we weaved our way through massive brillant red rock formations with snowy mountains as a backdrop. The lesser traveled two lane route into Colorado was harrowing at times but A. Paul expertly weaved the car through one ess curve after another, marked with signage never seen before on our travels. 
Throughout the drive we witnessed the landscape and the wildlife it supports coming to life and enjoying the first fruits of spring. Our arrival to Telluride at dusk was greeted by the sight of a fox on its early evening hunt. Tomorrow, we explore the town and will assess the upcoming weather for any needed to changes in our driving itinerary. We hope you all had a great St. Paddy Day and enjoy the visual journey of the day below.
DRIVE FROM UTAH TO COLORADO:
Art in Salt Lake City, Utah
ART in SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
A. Paul & I headed out to Salt Lake City under gray skies. With umbrella and camera in hand, we took this last day opportunity to explore the art venues that Salt Lake City has to offer its residents and visitors. Our first stop was to the Utah Museum of Fine Art (UMFA).
Given its location on Utah University's campus, UMFA was buzzing with students of all ages visiting the exhibits within the building. On the lower level of the museum, we encountered the works of Don Olsen, who, in 1954 at the age of 44, studied with Hans Hofmann in Provincetown, MA. The works exhibited demonstrated Olsen's study of push/pull theory under Hofmann's tutelage and was in honor of what would have been Olsen's 100th birthday. Olsen was both a visual and performing artist, being one of Utah's notable violinst in its symphony. In addition to the Olsen Abstract Expressionist exhibit, there was an extensive collection of 23 artists' works based on and influenced by contemporary artist Robert Smithson. On the second level of the museum was a photographic exhibit of photographer Helen Levitt's work.
Though the museum is comparatively small to other museums that we have visited, it was well curated and incorporated works in American , Greek & Roman, European, Asian, Pre Columbian and Native American cultures alongside its special exhibits. http://umfa.utah.edu/pageview.aspx?id=25861
Upon our departure, A. Paul & I made our way through the heart of the city taking in its sights. Very notable are the many artistic structures throughout the city including bronze birds permanently perched upon the transportation station stops and bronze arches spanning across its streets. Along the center square, the Mormon Tabernacle spires rose towards the sky above the solid walls that surround it. Past the Energy Solutions Arena, home to the Utah JAZZ, stand two bronze bastketball players memorialized for eternity.
On the west side of the city, we arrived at ArtSpace, our next destination. ArtSpace is a non for profit organization created in 1980 whose mission is to assist in the revitalization of communities through its creation of mixed use housing and commercial spaces. http://www.artspaceutah.org/%20The The ArtSpace converted warehouse we visited today houses artists' live/work spaces, non for profit organization ART ACCESS, the Utah Arts Festival Foundation, Tanner Frames, a very active frame shop, and other supportive community based businesses.
We began our visit at ART ACCESS, where we were graciously received by the three directors of the organization. Executive Director Ruth Lubbers, Programming Director Amanda Finlayson, and Assistant Director Sheryl Gillian, though busy hanging the new exhibit for the upcoming gallery opening, took time to explain the roll ART ACCESS fulfills in the community. ART ACCESS, chartered in 1984, is associated to VSA, a non for profit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith. The mission of the organization is to promote the arts through providing the tools, education, and representation to those with disabilities and to those disenfranchised in the community. The organization offers a multitude of programs such as residence artist programs, art mentoring, teen and adult workshops. http://www.accessart.org/
In 1991, ART ACCESS established the Art Access Gallery, which showcases the works of its network of artists in two gallery salons. At the time of our visit, artist Cori Redstone was hanging her paintings for her "Women of Their Time." exhibit. Her works feature women who have developed a confidence in their lives and at times challenged the norms within their social arenas. The effect of the pieces is thought provoking. The execution of the work masterfully balanced to their intent. It was a pleasure to meet all of you and best wishes to you on the success of Art Access and the upcoming openings.
Across the hall from ART ACCESS is the Utah Arts Festival Organization. UAF has been in operation for 35 years and hosts the largest outdoor multi disciplinary arts venue in the state of Utah. The four day June event brings over 80,000 people to Utah and is ranked in the top 100 festivals in the nation. The festival collaborates with over 100 performing artists of theater, symphony, and jazz and 140 visual artists of various mediums. http://www.uaf.org/
Down the hall from UAF we met artist and framer Travis Tanner. A. Paul was immediately impressed with the skill and artistry of Tanners handmade canvases and extensive collection of frames. Tanner has been creating custom canvas and frame work for artists, collectors, galleries and museums for nearly 20 years, almost 10 of these in his own shop, Tanner Frames, which he opened in 2003. Tanner Frames is part frame shop and part gallery where he exhibits few of his own assemblage pieces alongside those works of artists he knows or admires personally. http://tannerframes.com/
After our visit to ArtSpace, we traveled across to Rio Gallery housed in the historic Rio Grande Train Station. When we stepped into the space it was as if we stepped back in time. The old cafe was empty as if it were waiting for the next train of passengers to arrive. In the midst of the interior space were free standing contemporary display walls where a new exhibit was being hung for this coming Friday's opening. The Rio Gallery was established to provide a free venue to exhibit emerging and established Utahn artists. http://riogallery.com/
Our last stop of the day took us to the Salt Lake Art Center http://www.slartcenter.org/%20where where we met artist/volunteer Maggie Willis. http://www.maggiewillisarts.com/. Maggie provided us some background information on the non for profit Art Center and introduced us to the current exhibit "Sundance Film Festival: New Frontier.". The Art Center is a main venue for the contemporary arts in Utah and hosts not only exhibits but educational talks, youth programs, workshops, and internships.
The structure of the Art Center is a perfect backdrop to its contemporary exhibits. As A. Paul & I explored the Sundance exhibit, we could not overlook the architectural lines of the steel stairs and vast dark space that encompassed the visual, graphic displays of art. Each exhibit space was perfectly lit and most had a hands on or interactive component which enhanced the overall experience of the exhibit. http://www.slartcenter.org/?page_id=307
As we exited the Art Center, the skies had increasingly darkened as an approaching storm was making its way across the state. Throughout our drive back to Sandy, we took notice of the many sites of construction work taking place throughout the city. We take this as a positive sign that the economy is showing signs of improvement in Salt Lake City and are pleasantly surprised and pleased to see such a committed emphasis on the arts in Utah.
Tomorrow we depart to make our way to Telluride, CO for the next few days.
ART in SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH:
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| Don Olsen artwork |
Upon our departure, A. Paul & I made our way through the heart of the city taking in its sights. Very notable are the many artistic structures throughout the city including bronze birds permanently perched upon the transportation station stops and bronze arches spanning across its streets. Along the center square, the Mormon Tabernacle spires rose towards the sky above the solid walls that surround it. Past the Energy Solutions Arena, home to the Utah JAZZ, stand two bronze bastketball players memorialized for eternity.  |
| ArtSpace |
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| L-R: Amanda Finlayson, Sheryl Gillian, Ruth Lubbers, & Cori Redstone |
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| Cori Redstone artwork |
Across the hall from ART ACCESS is the Utah Arts Festival Organization. UAF has been in operation for 35 years and hosts the largest outdoor multi disciplinary arts venue in the state of Utah. The four day June event brings over 80,000 people to Utah and is ranked in the top 100 festivals in the nation. The festival collaborates with over 100 performing artists of theater, symphony, and jazz and 140 visual artists of various mediums. http://www.uaf.org/
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| Travis Tanner & Kerry |
Down the hall from UAF we met artist and framer Travis Tanner. A. Paul was immediately impressed with the skill and artistry of Tanners handmade canvases and extensive collection of frames. Tanner has been creating custom canvas and frame work for artists, collectors, galleries and museums for nearly 20 years, almost 10 of these in his own shop, Tanner Frames, which he opened in 2003. Tanner Frames is part frame shop and part gallery where he exhibits few of his own assemblage pieces alongside those works of artists he knows or admires personally. http://tannerframes.com/
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| lobby artwork historic rendering |
Our last stop of the day took us to the Salt Lake Art Center http://www.slartcenter.org/%20where where we met artist/volunteer Maggie Willis. http://www.maggiewillisarts.com/. Maggie provided us some background information on the non for profit Art Center and introduced us to the current exhibit "Sundance Film Festival: New Frontier.". The Art Center is a main venue for the contemporary arts in Utah and hosts not only exhibits but educational talks, youth programs, workshops, and internships.
 |
| Maggie Willis & Kerry |
As we exited the Art Center, the skies had increasingly darkened as an approaching storm was making its way across the state. Throughout our drive back to Sandy, we took notice of the many sites of construction work taking place throughout the city. We take this as a positive sign that the economy is showing signs of improvement in Salt Lake City and are pleasantly surprised and pleased to see such a committed emphasis on the arts in Utah.
Tomorrow we depart to make our way to Telluride, CO for the next few days.
ART in SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH:
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Drive to Solitude Mountain, Utah
BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON DRIVE TO SOLITUDE MOUNTAIN
The weather was perfect for A. Paul 's & my drive through Big Cottonwood Canyon to Solitude Mountain. Along the way, the mountain began showing the signs of spring as streams flowed between the layers of snow, sports enthusiasts took to the road, and exposed rock formations spilled to the road. It was a picturesque drive and a visual display of the changing season for Utahns.
Even though the mountain was clearly in a state of emergence, there was still plenty of snow at Solitude. The skiing was fabulous with the snow soft under foot on this 50 degree day. A. Paul & I enjoyed the sunshine, taking time to catch a few rays on the chairlifts.
The warming weather is a reminder that our trip is rapidly coming to a close as we soon head home to gear up for our gallery season. We have had such a great time and have experienced so many memorable events and met extraordinary individuals along the way.
Tomorrow, we plan to enjoy our remaining day in Utah exploring the Museum of Fine Art in Salt Lake City before heading to Telluride, CO on Thursday.
We continue to enjoy ourselves on our trip but I cannot close tonight's blog without commenting that we are not immune to the current affairs of Japan. The sadness over the losses of so many is in our hearts as I am sure it is for our readers.
DRIVE to SOLITUDE SLIDESHOW
The weather was perfect for A. Paul 's & my drive through Big Cottonwood Canyon to Solitude Mountain. Along the way, the mountain began showing the signs of spring as streams flowed between the layers of snow, sports enthusiasts took to the road, and exposed rock formations spilled to the road. It was a picturesque drive and a visual display of the changing season for Utahns.
The warming weather is a reminder that our trip is rapidly coming to a close as we soon head home to gear up for our gallery season. We have had such a great time and have experienced so many memorable events and met extraordinary individuals along the way.
Tomorrow, we plan to enjoy our remaining day in Utah exploring the Museum of Fine Art in Salt Lake City before heading to Telluride, CO on Thursday.
We continue to enjoy ourselves on our trip but I cannot close tonight's blog without commenting that we are not immune to the current affairs of Japan. The sadness over the losses of so many is in our hearts as I am sure it is for our readers.
DRIVE to SOLITUDE SLIDESHOW
Art in Park City, Utah
ART in PARK CITY, UTAH
The morning began with an overcast sky and light rain as A. Paul & I headed towards Park City for a day of gallery exploration. Park City, Utah is approximately 40 minutes east of Salt Lake City in the Wasatch Mountain Range and beyond its superb skiing offerings, there are approxiately 20 galleries and an art center dotting its historic Main Street.
VISIT TO PARK CITY, UTAH
The morning began with an overcast sky and light rain as A. Paul & I headed towards Park City for a day of gallery exploration. Park City, Utah is approximately 40 minutes east of Salt Lake City in the Wasatch Mountain Range and beyond its superb skiing offerings, there are approxiately 20 galleries and an art center dotting its historic Main Street. 
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| Kerry & Thomas Edberg Hope Gallery & Museum artwork by Valdemar H.N. Irminger (1850-1938) |
Our first stop was in the Hope Gallery and Museum of Fine Art where we met Gallery Director Thomas Edsberg whose family has owned the gallery for over three generations. The Hope Gallery represents 16th to early 20th century Scandinavian and European master works by artists such as Durer and Bloch. Many of the artists represented at Hope demonstrates the Edsberg family's dedication of bringing master artists works, that have mostly been overlooked during the Impressionist and Modernist Movements, to the public. The collections offered are extensive and privately held by the family and in its 12,000 square foot facility in Park City, one of three locations in
Utah, is much more an intimate visit to a museum than gallery, though all works are for sell. You can visit the Hope Gallery & Museum of Fine Art at http://www.hopegallery.com/ Thank you, Thomas, for all your time, information, and enthusiasm for the artworld.
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"Amor in the Lion Pit" Valdemar H.N. Irminger |
As the sun began to break through the clouds and rain subside, A. Paul & I continued our visits to the Terzian Gallery http://www.terziangalleries.com/ , Mountain Trails Gallery http://www.mountaintrailsgalleries.com/ , Meyer Gallery http://www.meyersgallery.com/ , Gallery Mar http://www.gallerymar.com/ , Coda Gallery http://www.codagallery.com/ , Thomas Anthony Gallery http://www.thomasanthonygallery.com/ and District Gallery http://www.districtgallery.com/. All which participate in the Last Friday Gallery Stroll.
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| L-R: Jane Riley & Minda Stockdale |
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| Kimball Art Center Gallery |
We ended our visit at Park City's Kimball Art Center where Studio Manager Minda Stockdale and docent Jane Riley provided insight into the activities of the art center. Beyond its three exhibit galleries, the non for profit Kimball Art Center offers workshops to children and adults in various mediums with a complete ceramic studio, photography darkroom, and welding facility. In addition to these offerings, the Center also hosts artist talks and coordinates Park City's Art Festival, a top major festival in the country. You can view the Center's offerings and exhibits at http://www.kimballartcenter.org/
As we headed back towards Salt Lake City, the clouds began to gather over the mountain vistas with the sun finding its way through a break. The result was breathtaking. As we reached the valley, the sunshine was abundant, promising a beautiful day for tomorrow's visit to Solitude Mountain for a bit of skiing.
Monday, March 14, 2011
WYOMING TO UTAH via IDAHO
DRIVE from GRAND TARGHEE to UTAH via IDAHO
A. Paul & I left Wyoming with a cloudy sky with tinges of blue peeking through the clouds. The vistas from the drive down the Tetons into the snow covered fields left us feeling as if we were on a cloud or in another world.
Once we dropped into Idaho, the scenery alternated between freshly tilled fields with occasional views of wildlife taking advantage of fresh springs grasses to snow capped passages.
We were welcomed to Utah with an extraordinary view of the city skyline imposed upon a backdrop of snowy mountains. The drive was abundantly pictureesque making it difficult to choose which images to share so I apologize for the number of images but hope that you enjoy the vistas.
DRIVE from WYOMING to UTAH
Once we dropped into Idaho, the scenery alternated between freshly tilled fields with occasional views of wildlife taking advantage of fresh springs grasses to snow capped passages. 
DRIVE from WYOMING to UTAH
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