Issue No. 19 | March 9, 2026

Weekly Edition Sponsor

PUBLISHER'S NOTE | Denise Leslie

What I love most about putting together Eye on the Arts each week is seeing how many different ways creativity shows up in our community.

This edition moves from the powerful work of sculptor Veryl Goodnight, whose art captures moments of history and freedom, to the extraordinary weaving of Diné artist Laverne Barber, whose work carries generations of tradition and storytelling.

Music enters the conversation through Yves Giraud, whose studio interviews create space for thoughtful discussions about songwriting and the creative life. And just ahead, the Durango Celtic Festival will bring musicians, dancers, and cultural traditions together for a joyful community celebration.

Finally, Linda’s Spark Story reflects on one of those defining moments that can shape a creative life—when something within us shifts and a new path quietly begins.

Thank you for being part of a community that continues to notice, support, and celebrate the arts.

With gratitude,

Denise & Violet - my canine assistant

P.S. Be sure to click Read More to experience the full stories.

VISUAL ARTS| TEXTILES

VISUAL ARTS | PAINTING

The West in Motion: The Art of Veryl Goodnight

For more than forty years, renowned Western artist Veryl Goodnight has captured the spirit of the American West through powerful bronze sculptures seen in museums and public spaces around the world. Now, she’s telling those stories in a new way—through oil painting. Discover how one of the West’s most respected artists is still evolving—and still telling unforgettable stories.

SPARK STORY sponsored by Arts Perspective Magazine

Spark Story: Poet, Linda Dighiera

What happens when life delivers heartbreak, loss, and unexpected trials? One woman discovered that faith and writing could become powerful tools for healing. In this deeply personal reflection, Linda Dighiera's journey reveals how even the most broken hearts can discover hope.

CREATIVE VOICES | sponsored by The Sunflower Theater

Yves LF Giraud in Conversation with Marilyn Kroeker

From his studio near Cortez, French-American singer-songwriter and recording artist Yves LF Giraud hosts a series of thoughtful studio interviews exploring the creative lives of musicians. In this installment, Giraud welcomes singer-songwriter Marilyn Kroeker for a relaxed conversation about songwriting, inspiration, and the personal experiences that shape an artist’s voice. Watch the interview and step inside the creative process.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT | sponsored by Durango Celtic Festival

Fiddles, Pipes, and Tradition: The Durango Celtic Festival

The Durango Celtic Festival returns March 27–28 with a weekend of music, learning, and Celtic tradition at the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. Performances by RUNA, Cassie & Maggie, and Caroline Keane with Tom Delany highlight the festival alongside workshops and community sessions.

Quote for the Week: "Creativity is contagious. Pass it on." ~Albert Einstein

WEEKLY EDITION SPONSOR | Arts Perspective magazine

Arts Perspective | Arts & Culture Guide to the Southwest is heading to print. This beautifully curated annual issue will celebrate the artists, makers, performers, and cultural leaders shaping our creative corridor — from Durango to Mancos, Cortez to Ignacio, Silverton to Pagosa Springs, and beyond.

Advertising opportunities are now open!

Reserve your space today!

Join us in telling the story of the Southwest.

Thank you all, Barbara Grist, Shell Simonson, Heather Freeman, Tad Smith, Moni & Jonas Grushkin, Milt Beens, Aunt Victoria & Jim, Cinda Wassmer, Randy Hays, Patricia Burk, Sharon Abshagen, Mary Zaleski, Jan Wright, Charles Shaw, Linda Barnes, Julie Cooley, Beth Drum, Hilarie Strong, Charles Leslie, Cary Lindley & Ilze Aviks!