I have to admit to feeling a bit overwhelmed by my exploration of the art scene yesterday in downtown Colorado Springs. It seems there are thousands and thousands of painters in Colorado.
Coming from Mountain Home, AR and Albany, GA to The Springs has me feeling like a fish out of water. I can’t help but wonder how this southern gal will fit in here.
The good news is that no one paints quite like me. I am choosing to look at that as a good thing.
Artists need to protect themselves from being influenced TOO much by great art made by others; subsequently loosing their own, hard earned style.
My style of painting might not be for everyone, but who cares? It is mine. I claim it. I embrace it.
I took some time to tour the Cottonwood Center for the Arts — a cool place that has 2 floors of artist studios for rent, as well as galleries for exhibits.
The drawbacks for me when considering a studio at Cottonwood are substantial. Cost, commute, privacy. Heck, for all I know, I might not even be accepted. I am not sure what sort of application process they require.
The biggest drawback for me seems to be the building itself. It is ugly as hell, a former office building with very tiny windows and an unappealing front entrance. Inside it feels cave like, I don’t think I can be creative there.
Don’t get me wrong, it is a GREAT place that supports emerging artists, but I am not sure if it is right for me.
Where will I fit in?
I am looking foward to finally getting settled in and comfortable in Colorado.
I am yearning for my own studio space again. After almost two years in a small condo in Arkansas, with no room to paint at home, I need my own space desperately. It doesn’t have to be fancy, any old room will do.
Thank goodness by husband is very supportive of this. I am grateful that he understands.
By the way, it’s snowing today. Still a novelty for me.
The photo above was taken by me a couple days ago at sunrise. It is a view of Pike’s Peak from the patio of our temporary apartment in North Colorado Springs.
Cindy,
You’re right, no one paints exactly like you! You’ll find new inspiration in your new home and more and more folks who appreciate your art. I hope that you find a nice house with a place for a studio, with lots and lots of natural light!
Don’t worry Cindy, We all need our comfort zone. For me it is a matter of shall I paint, shall I photograph, shall I run the store, etc. A few days ago I found myself making another turn. Don’t know where it will lead. Wearever it does, it is all good.
thanks Jean and Richard. I know it’s a process, I am just ready to stop “processing” and start with my normal life again. hee-hee
Take care,
Cindy
I used to live in Santa Fe and took many trips to Colorado. It’s quite amazing and easy to see why artists love it up there. Personally, I would visit Manitou Springs (short drive from Colorado Springs), there’s so much to see and paint and it’s a quaint town with a great little art scene. And you’re still close to Denver too. Check it out and good luck!
Hi Joshua, Yes I agree that Manitou Springs is very cool. I like it there a lot. Thanks for input. – Cindy